Could your neighborhood be the next hunting ground for child traffickers? Vicki Thompson from Grace Haven joins us to peel back the curtain on a harrowing reality that's closer to home than many of us would like to believe. Our powerful exchange delves into the quintessential services Grace Haven extends to the young victims of sex trafficking, from therapeutic residential care to pervasive case management. We navigate the complexities of rescuing children ages 11-17 from the life of sex trafficking transcending socioeconomic and geographic boundaries and emphasize the crucial role of education in recognizing and responding to grooming tactics. Vicki's insights are a clarion call to action, underscoring the importance of the national trafficking hotline in safeguarding our communities.

We confront the chilling escalation of online exploitation and the daunting challenges it poses to our youth. With Grace Haven at the forefront, we celebrate the organization's unwavering commitment to providing sanctuary and rekindling hope for survivors. The conversation also spotlights the innovative 'Over the Edge' fundraiser and the mosaic of individuals championing the cause, from enthusiastic college grads to the wisdom of retired social workers. Our session with Vicki is not just a discussion; it's a journey through the shadows of trafficking with a beacon of hope guiding us toward a future where every child is rescued, protected, and loved.

Embark on a journey through the fusion of biology and technology with Beau Warren, the revolutionary mind behind Species X Beer Project, as he sits down with me, Michelle Gatchel, to share his captivating evolution from homebrew hobbyist to the vanguard of brewing innovation. Beau's leap to craft beer is as unexpected as it is inspiring, detailing how his passion for ale and an academic foundation in psychology ultimately intertwined with the complex world of artificial intelligence. Listeners will get an exclusive look into the inner workings of Species X Beer, where AI-driven creativity isn't just a concept but the heart of their beer crafting process.

As we navigate the hops-infused waters of Beau's brewing philosophy, we tackle the technical leaps towards creating zero-gravity libations for the space tourism frontier—a testament to the Species X Beer Project's sky-high aspirations. Beer enthusiasts and tech aficionados will tap into the intricacies of genetically engineered yeast strains and the challenges of tailoring beer for orbital enjoyment. With Beau's guidance, join us in toasting to the future of fermentation where the science of suds meets the cosmos, and how you can tune into their live Twitch streams to catch a glimpse of brewing history in the making. It's not just about what's on tap; it's about where those taps might one day be located—far above the Earth's atmosphere.

When European baking meets the entrepreneurial spirit, magic happens in the kitchen—or should I say Kitschen Bakery. Katie Porter-Conley sits across from me, sharing the aroma-filled tale of her quaint bakery nestled in Marysville, Ohio’s historic heart. What began as a family tradition soon rose like the perfect sourdough into a thriving business, blending warmth, community, and the finest local ingredients into every bite. From navigating the switch from academic life to the sweet hustle of entrepreneurship to mastering the delicate dance of home bakery licensing, Katie invites us into her world of flaky pastries and heartfelt connections.

Picture this: a bustling bakery where each quiche and pie tells a story of local farms and community spirit. In our conversation, Katie unveils the layers of planning and passion that transformed her dreams into a brick-and-mortar reality without the crutch of loans. It's not just about the secret behind her lemon basil pie or the crowd-pleasing 'fancy toast'; it's also about the milestones, like celebrating the bakery’s second anniversary. Katie’s journey is a testament to the power of networking and the sweet taste of success when a community pulls together.

A female entrepreneur's life is sprinkled with sugar and spice, and Katie doesn’t shy away from sharing the full recipe. We swap tales of finding balance in the whirlwind of business—managing burnout, laughing off the peculiarities of farm life dreams, and sometimes, making the tough call between personal income and the bakery's financial health. For those with visions of oven mitts and flour-dusted aprons in their future, Katie’s insights are akin to finding that extra spoonful of sugar when you thought you'd run out. Join us for this rich blend of candid stories and seasoned advice, perfect for anyone craving a slice of entrepreneurial life.

Join us on a remarkable journey with the insightful Professor Clifford Hurst of Ohio Wesleyan University, as he recounts his extraordinary shift from a disciplined Marine Corps officer to a dynamic entrepreneurship professor. His story is a testament to the boundless nature of the entrepreneurial spirit, weaving through various career paths and disciplines. With Clifford's guidance, Ohio Wesleyan's entrepreneurial program is gaining momentum, growing from a singular course offering to a full-fledged minor. The conversation uncovers the essence of entrepreneurship – a universal pursuit that thrives on the hustle and embraces a supportive community, irrespective of success levels.

Venture into the innovative territory where nonprofits embrace entrepreneurship, as a tool for sustainability. In this episode, Michelle shares about her own foray into the world of social enterprise, explaining how starting a vending machine business was the answer to funding a food pantry. This narrative sparks a broader discussion on how social entrepreneurship is transforming nonprofit revenue models, with a special focus on empowering students through hands-on projects that equip them with essential business skills. 

Finally, Professor Hurst shares how student entrepreneurs  are catching momentum at the Delaware Entrepreneurial Center at Ohio Wesleyan University as it is a nucleus for nurturing student startups. 

Discover the heartbeat of Delaware's economic surge with local visionaries Logan Brunney and Cody Hatton, who are steering the city towards a renaissance of business innovation. Join us as we uncover how their strategic alliance with the Delaware Entrepreneur Center, city officials, and Ohio Wesleyan University is nurturing an ecosystem ripe for entrepreneurial success.  I share my love for Delaware's tight-knit community, eclectic downtown scene, and the welcoming embrace that beckons entrepreneurs to plant their roots and flourish.

Unlock the entrepreneurial spirit within you as Alison Gatchell, an independent business owner with Amway, joins us to share the ins and outs of thriving in the world of sales and business ownership. Get ready to be inspired by Alison's journey from embracing Amway's unique business model—a blend of independence and franchising support—to mastering the fine art of relationship building in sales. 

No prior skills? No problem. Alison and I dissect the practical nitty-gritty of running a day-to-day business, from invoicing to taxes, while also looking at the bigger picture of personal development. 

In this episode of Midwest Momentum, host Michelle Gatchell talks to Don Overly, creator of the Marysville Toy Show. Don shares is journey from toy collector to toy show organizer. Revel in Don's nostalgic trip down memory lane, his enduring love for Mustang keepsakes, and the resurrection of his Star Wars fandom. Don shares what it takes to curate a successful toy show and the exciting expansion Don and his partner Fred Roberts have in store.

Ever wondered how Ohio is becoming a powerhouse in both space research and culinary arts? Join us, Michelle Gatchell and Dan Rockwell, as we delve into the heart of the Midwest's industries located in Ohio.  Our journey starts with the state's significant strides in supporting life beyond Earth, minus the rocket launches. We also celebrate the leaps made by local initiatives: from soaring ambitions with flying car to a Columbus gem making waves in clean energy. Plus, we raise a toast to Ohio's gastronomic prowess, showcased by a local chef's triumph on "Chopped."

It's a brave new world where space innovation meets artificial intelligence, and we're here to navigate it. In this episode, we unravel the exciting synergy at NASA's Imagine Aviation event and how it's setting the stage for space tech's incredible potential. Your imagination will be captured by the advancements in AI, from OpenAI's mind-bending text to video processing to the creative genius of AI-designed planters by IC3D. We'll also get a glimpse into the future with the latest AI-driven physics engines that are redefining our understanding of possibility.

We question the changing face of information access and the human desire to personify our digital counterparts. Prepare to have your perspective shifted as we explore the quest for authenticity in a world teeming with intelligent engines.

Ever wondered how to become a book narrator? A storyteller's voice can breathe life into the pages of a book,  that's exactly why Becky White and Gary Smith from Ohio Audio Book Narrators became narrators themselves and run the OAN. Join us as we uncover the nuances and challenges of audiobook narration, revealing how a distinctive voice can carve out a successful career. Becky's leap from business owner to voiceover artist and Gary's transition from an audiobook enthusiast to a voiceover professional offer a glimpse into the dedication behind their craft. Their shared expertise sheds light on the technical and personal elements that go into becoming a narrator, and they're here to tell you all about it.

If you are curious about how Ohio Audio Book Narrators can support you on your journey, or if you're simply fascinated by the world of voiceover, this episode will resonate with you. Tune in for a session brimming with wisdom, laughter, and the shared love of storytelling.

Discover the inner workings of Ohio's food and hospitality sector as we sit down with the insightful John Barker, President and CEO of the Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance. In a landscape forever altered by a global crisis, we uncover the stories of adaptability and innovation that have allowed businesses to thrive. From the mom-and-pop ice cream shops to the upscale dining of hotel restaurants, we delve into the strategies that have not only helped them weather the storm but also cater to the evolving tastes and demands of today's diners.

We chat about a celebration of culinary excellence, akin to the restaurant industry's very own Oscars with the Alliance's Annual Awards. Then discuss the buzz surrounding legislative debates that could reshape the industry's future , man y say not for the better. We'll also guide you through the rise of food halls, ghost kitchens, and the pivot to delivery services, encapsulating how Ohio's gastronomic scene is embracing the digital age's challenges and opportunities with gusto. Tune in to this feast of conversation that's sure to wet your appetite for innovation and community in the world of hospitality.