Property taxes are confusing—and they’re about to take center stage in Summit County. Greater Akron Chamber President and CEO Steve Millard talks with Brian Nelson, Chief of Staff for County Executive Ilene Shapiro, to break down what residents need to know about the upcoming charter amendment (Issue2). With more than 30 years in public finance, Nelson explains how Ohio’s property tax system works and why Summit County is proposing a first-of-its-kind 3% annual cap to protect homeowners while keeping essential services funded.

During the 2025 Polymer Cluster Connectivity Conference, a signature event of thePolymer IndustryCluster (PIC), John Warner, CEO & CTO of Technology Greenhouse, LLC, delivered a keynoteemphasizing the critical role of green chemistry in improving the ways materials are produced, utilized, andrecycled to support a circular economy.This special episode brings Warner’s keynote to the podcastplatform and his call to polymer industry leaders to foster innovations that create safer products and ahealthier environment for future generations

Aimee Wade, Executive Director of the County of Summit ADM Board, joins us to discuss the Chamber’s endorsement of the ADM levy and what’s at stake for Summit County. She breaks down how the proposed renewal and increase—from 2.95 to 3.45 mills—would generate $46 million annually to sustain mental health and recovery services, fund 30+ provider agencies, and support projects like the new Dr. Fred Frese Residential Center. We also explore how investing in ADM services strengthens our workforce, fuels business vitality, and builds a healthier community ahead of the November 4, 2025 election.

Andrew Novak, co-founder of Summit Sport and Social, shares how a simple idea with a friend became oneof Akron’s most dynamic community builders. From blending competition with social connection topartnering with local organizations and launching a creative 2026 downtown project through the KnightEmerging City Champions fellowship, Andrew talks about keeping people downtown, fostering inclusivity,and why Akron is the perfect place for new ideas

Matt Dolan, President of Team NEO, joins Steve to share why Northeast Ohio is positioned for long-term growth. From the unique JobsOhio model and Ohio’s strength in manufacturing workforce development to the importance of supporting the industries already thriving here, Matt highlights how regional wins create ripple effects for all communities. He also breaks down grant opportunities and relocation incentives through Team NEO and explains why connecting with Team NEO early can give businesses a powerful advantage.

Emmanuel Hilton, Vice President of Ecosystem Growth at Bounce Innovation Hub, is helping shape Akron’s entrepreneurial future. From leading SPARK Akron, a strategy under ElevateGreater Akron that connects small businesses with the right resources, to highlighting programs like MORTAR for Black entrepreneurs, Emmanuel shares how Bounce is breaking down barriers and building a stronger support system for founders. He also previews the upcoming Startup Circle conference, a first-of-its-kind event designed to give entrepreneurs clarity, resources, and even a bit of “business therapy” to help their ideas succeed.

What happens when your business success starts running you instead of the other way around?JoshMuller, founder of Maple Creek Coaching, shares how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helped him break free from burnout, delegate effectively, and transform his company. Josh and Steve dive into the dangers of overworking, the power of curiosity, and the importance of authentic networking and maintaining relationships

House Bill 159 proposes the ManufacturingTechnologies Assistance Grant Program (MTAP) to help Ohiomanufacturers boost productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness while ensuring small and mid-sizedbusinesses have access to vital resources. In this recording from the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliancebriefing session, State Representative Nick Santucci and key stakeholders discuss the bill’s impact on thestate’s manufacturing industry and answer audience questions about what it could mean for the future ofOhio business.

What does it take to be a leader who not only drives results but also builds resilience and wellbeing into the workplace? Christine Williams, Associate Vice President of Immersive Leadership at United Way of Summit& Medina, and John Ropar, longtime counselor and therapist, sit down with us to share their perspectives on leadership, growth, and mental health. Together, they explore how immersive leadership programs can equip professionals to lead with empathy, and why caring for mental wellbeing is key to creating stronger teams and communities.

To Dominique Waters, sneakers are more than fashion—they’re a bridge to science, self-discovery, and community change. The Akron Sneaker Academy founder shares how his path from luxury fashion to youth mentorship is using sneaker culture to spark interest in STEM, connect students to Akron’s history and polymer industry ties, and inspire the next generation to dream bigger.

What does it take to spark real change in a city’s core? In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, newly appointed Downtown Akron Development Corporation Executive Director Christopher Hardesty shares his vision for revitalizing downtown Akron. From transforming historic buildings into housing to reshaping public perceptions of safety and walkability, Chris discusses the power of partnerships, capital investment, and inclusive planning. He also highlights key collaborations with groups like Elevate Greater Akron and the University of Akron to drive momentum and make downtown a place where people want to live, work, and thrive

What if the key to Akron’s future workforce is sitting in your office right now... as an intern? In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Elizabeth Bartz, President and CEO of State and Federal Communications, shares how a well-designed internship program can do more than just support young professionals—it can fuel long-term economic growth and keep top talent rooted in the region. From hosting future lawyers to welcoming visits from presidents, her stories show the real impact internships can have on individuals and communities alike.

What actually gets decided in Columbus and D.C.—and how does it affect your business? In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Steve Millard talks with John Rizzo, VP of the Akron Canton Advocacy Alliance, for a deep dive into Ohio’s newly passed state operating budget and the federal reconciliation bill. From expanded tax credits and workforce programs to economic development tools and line-item vetoes and next steps, John breaks down what’s in the budgets, what they mean for your bottom line, and how local businesses can influence future policy.

Turning polymers into startups isn’t easy—but Akron is making it faster, smarter, and more collaborative. In this episode, Steve Millard talks with Nick Glavan of Bounce Innovation Hub aboutSynthe6,a new accelerator built to help materials science founders move from breakthrough ideas to real-world impact. With funding, expert mentorship, and connections to the Polymer Industry Cluster, Synthe6 is redefining what’s possible in Northeast Ohio. Applications are open through July 31 at bouncehub.org/synthe6.

As workforce needs continue to evolve across Ohio, the Ohio TechCred program remains a critical tool for helping employers close skill gaps and invest in their teams. In this episode, Jean Barbato, Senior Manager of the Manufacturing Sector Partnership at ConxusNEO, explains how businesses can take advantage of TechCred to receive up to $2,000 per employee for tech-focused credentials—up to $180,000 annually. With the July application window now open, this conversation is a timely look at how Northeast Ohio organizations can use TechCred to grow their workforce, retain talent, and remain competitive in today’s economy.

Downtown Cuyahoga Falls is full of flavor... and not just from the popcorn. Kaylee Piper of the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership and Brent Vanfossen, owner of Metropolis Popcorn, join Dreamers, Drivers, Doers to talk about the city’s downtown revival. From DORA and the Riverloop Project, to small business growth and 50+ popcorn flavors, hear how local energy, investment, and creativity are transforming the Falls into a must-visit destination.

What do the White House, global trade shows, and Akron’s economic revival have in common? Gregg Cramer. In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Gregg reflects on his 18-year legacy at the Greater Akron Chamber, where he helped launch the “Akron USA” movement and brought global attention and investment to the region. From retaining giants like Goodyear to pitching Akron’s potential overseas, Gregg shares how strategic partnerships, persistence, and long-term vision have shaped the region’s future, and how he’s continuing that work in his new role at Green Harvest Capital.

When Zac Kohl bought his East Akron home for $4,500, he wasn’t just investing in property—he was planting roots in a neighborhood he believed in. Years later, that belief has grown into a movement, with community development, housing restoration, and now adynamic new food hall at the heart of it all in this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Zac, Executive Director of The Well CDC, joins Barry Dunaway to talk with Steve Millard about transforming Middlebury through local ownership, economic reinvestment, and restoring pride in place. From teaching neighbors how to care for their homes to creating a rooftop gathering space with purpose, this is a story of what’s possible when people build with a community—not just in one.

What’s holding business leaders back from expanding, innovating, or taking that next big leap? For Chuck Mullen, it often comes down to fear—and he’s here to challenge it. Chuck, Partner and Great Lakes Market Leader at Eide Bailly, joins Steve Millard for a candid conversation on how to lead through uncertainty, navigate mergers, and build trust in a changing world. Drawing from 20+ years in public accounting, Chuck shares what’s stayed the same—and what absolutely hasn’t—when it comes to scaling a business.

As the 2025 Kaulig Companies Championship returns to Firestone Country Club from June 18–22, we’re revisiting a conversation with Don Padgett, Executive Director of the tournament. In this episode, originally aired in 2024, Don and Steve Millard discuss the tournament’s deep roots in Akron, its economic and charitable impact, and what makes it more than just a golf event. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or just looking for a premier summer experience in Greater Akron, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the championship continues to evolve as a community-wide celebration.