Why did Honda choose rural Ohio over every other location in North America—and why has it continued investing here for more than 40 years?
In this episode of The Small Nation Podcast, Jason Duff sits down with Jeff Reed, Community & Government Relations Director at Honda, to explore one of the most influential economic development stories in Ohio's history.
What began with a motorcycle plant in Marysville grew into an innovation ecosystem that now supports more than 15,000 Honda associates in Ohio and contributes to over 100,000 jobs throughout the state. Jeff shares the remarkable story of Honda's first investment, why people—not incentives—were the deciding factor, and how partnerships between business, education, and local communities continue to drive growth today.
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, mayor, chamber leader, economic developer, student, or simply passionate about the future of rural America, this conversation offers valuable leadership lessons on building strong communities and attracting long-term investment.
This episode is about much more than automobiles. It's about people, partnerships, entrepreneurship, and how visionary leadership can transform an entire region for generations.
If you care about economic development, downtown revitalization, manufacturing, workforce development, entrepreneurship, community leadership, or the future of small-town America, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
Subscribe to The Small Nation Podcast for conversations with entrepreneurs, community builders, business leaders, and innovators who are creating thriving places across America.
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Top 10 of Cars.com 2026 American-Made Index
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