Rust Belt Rundown: Recent Episodes
Rust Belt Rundown
Shining a light on the meaningful work being done in Northeast Ohio, the Rust Belt Rundown convenes manufacturing executives and business leaders for candid discussions about business, regional happenings, industry trends, entrepreneurship, and more.
This week our guest is Jason Therrien, the President & CEO of thunder::tech, an integrated marketing agency.
In this episode, Jason shares how thunder::tech has expanded over the past 25 years, including how he’s evolved as an entrepreneur and leader.
He shares his expert insight into the dynamic world of modern marketing with us, focusing on employer branding. He offers actionable advice for small to mid-size manufacturers on developing and leveraging a strong employer brand.
Jason’s restaurant recommendations include Momocho, a modern Mexican spot in Ohio City, and Mendoza’s in Port Clinton, a hole in the wall with unbeatable burritos.
Follow Jason on LinkedIn to stay up to date on marketing trends.
Check out thunder::tech and their employer branding resources here.
Our guest this week is Lindsay Fleuriet, the Creative Director of Postindustrial Media. We are thrilled to have our second guest from Postindustrial Media join us to give an update on all things Postindustrial. (Listen to Episode 64 featuring Carmen Gentile of Postindustrial Media)
In this episode, Lindsay offers us insight into her role as Creative Director and how she helps to shape the artistic direction of the publication’s narrative and their other efforts.
We also learn about her childhood growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, and how her family’s background lends itself to helping tell stories about postindustrial communities, the throughline of them being optimism about reclamation, shown through art.
Lindsay’s restaurant picks are in Youngstown where you can find the best Italian food in Ohio! Avalon, Wedgewood and Elmton are her top picks for pizza.
Connect with Lindsay on LinkedIn and learn more about Postindustrial Media at postindustrial.com.
In celebration of National Skilled Trades Day (May 1st, 2024), we are joined by Neftali “Nef” Sanchez of Martindale Electric Co.!
Nef was placed by Rust Belt Recruiting at Martindale in 2019. He shares with us how that opportunity came to be and what his experience working with Rust Belt was like.
He has found great success in his time at Martindale and he shares with us the positive relationship he has maintained with his employer and the opportunities that a career in the skilled trades has afforded him such as a college degree and his journeyman title.
This week we are joined by Scott Paul, the President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM).
AAM is a non-profit, non-partisan partnership formed in 2007 by some of America’s leading manufacturers and the United Steelworkers. Scott shares with us how the AAM was formed and what they are currently doing to advance their mission of strengthening American manufacturing.
Scott and Paul discuss the renaissance of skilled trades and other manufacturing trends such as reshoring and electric vehicles. Scott provides insight into the stories he helps to tell on AAM’s podcast, The Manufacturing Report. He also shares with us the experience of making AAM’s first documentary, Relighting the Flame, which tells the story of how a new generation of workers at Cleveland-Cliffs facilities are defying enormous odds to rebuild and grow America’s steel industry, right in the Industrial Heartland.
Scott is a Penn State grad so he cites The Tavern in State College, Pennsylvania as his favorite restaurant. (“For the nostalgia more so than the food!”)
Connect with Scott Paul on LinkedIn or follow him on X, @ScottPaulAAM.
Our guest this week is Bob Businger, the Chief Financial Officer of Ramco Specialites Inc.!
In this episode, Bob shares what Ramco does and how they have grown in recent years, aided in part by their partnership with Rust Belt Recruiting.
He gives us insight into how he operates as their CFO and we get his take on AI in the finance industry, along with other manufacturing trends such as investing in automation and reshoring.
His favorite restaurant picks are Barrio, Kasai Sushi in Wadsworth, and Angelo’s Pizza in Lakewood.
Connect with Bob Businger on LinkedIn.
This week we are joined by Trudy Cheney, the Vice President of Global Human Resources at Xaloy.
In this episode, we hear from Trudy about her career journey and how she ended up in HR, specifically HR for industrial businesses. Trudy and Paul discuss all things HR - what HR really is, how to strategically work with partners to achieve your HR goals, HR trends, and more.
We also hear about Trudy’s involvement with the Mahoning Valley Manufacturer’s Coalition (MVMC) and her upcoming involvement with Ashland University’s Women In Leadership Program.
Trudy’s restaurant recommendations in the Youngstown area include YOSTERIA and The Elmton.
Connect with Trudy Cheney on LinkedIn.
Our guest this week is Brendan Anderson, the Founding and Managing Partner of ScaleCo Capital. ScaleCo Capital is a Cleveland-based lower middle market private equity firm that focuses on control-oriented leveraged buyout and growth equity investments in fast-growing companies based primarily in the Great Lakes region.
In this episode, we heard from Brendan about how he got his start in private equity, lessons in entrepreneurship through acquisition, and his personal and professional journey with EOS.
Brendan’s Cleveland restaurant recommendation is Pizazz Pizza in Shaker Heights for its family-friendly vibe.
Connect with Brendan Anderson on LinkedIn or click here to learn more about ScaleCo.
We are thrilled to kick off our 2024 episodes with such a fantastic guest! For this episode, we are joined by Joe Cimperman, President of Global Cleveland.
We hear from Joe about growing up on the East Side of Cleveland as the son of immigrant parents and how it shaped his dedication to and appreciation of Cleveland. He and Paul discuss the ideals of America, civic engagement, and lessons in gratitude. We also hear from Joe about the mission of Global Cleveland and what they have in store for 2024.
Of course, Joe is the expert on global cuisine in Cleveland and he was quick to list his favorites: Marie’s Restaurant (Eastern European), Banana Blossom (Thai), Nate’s Deli (Mediterranean), LJ Shanghai (Chinese), La Plaza (Mexican), and Half Moon Bakery (Latin-inspired).
Connect with Joe Cimperman on LinkedIn or visit globalcleveland.org for more information.
This week we are joined by Adam Graves, President of the Pizza & Snacking Division at Nestlé.
In this episode, we hear about Adam’s career journey with Nestlé over the last 16 years. He got his start as a marketing intern and has worked his way into his current position, which Paul has dubbed the greatest title of any podcast guest so far!
Along with working in a variety of functions, he has also worked across the world in California, Switzerland, Colombia, Canada, and now Ohio. We learn how he applies his diverse experiences to his management and leadership, how Nestlé aims to be “consumer-obsessed” to succeed, and the importance of the manufacturing aspect of Nestlé’s operations among other things.
He names Bogotá as the most interesting city for food that he’s lived in but gives Cleveland an honorable culinary mention as it’s the only city he has moved back to.
Connect with Adam Graves on LinkedIn.
Our guest this week is Paul Roetzer, Founder and CEO of the Marketing Artificial Intelligence Institute. This episode is a must-listen if you are interested in (or even apprehensive of!) artificial intelligence.
Paul shares with us how he got interested in AI in 2011 while he was running his marketing agency and how marketing and AI have evolved since then. He talks about the pivotal shift that AI made in 2022 when it became accessible to the public and how that has shifted the general perception of AI. He addresses the pushback from creatives, how companies need to implement change management, and even how AI is redefining the value of college degrees.
Paul’s restaurant recommendation is Joe’s Deli in Rocky River and as an OU alum, his Athen’s go-to is Bagel Street Deli.
For free resources on AI, visit marketingaiinstitute.com. To stay up to date on the latest AI trends, connect with Paul Roetzer on LinkedIn.
This week we are joined by Dan Rose, a Certified EOS Implementer at EOS Worldwide.
In this lively conversation, Paul and Dan discuss the multiple businesses that Dan has built and sold and what that taught him about entrepreneurship. They also talk about how to overcome risk aversion and different ways to define and approach happiness and success in relation to entrepreneurship. Dan also shares with us about EOS and how it helps various organizations succeed.
Dan’s restaurant picks include Pier W, Nemo’s, Morton’s, and Joe’s Deli.
Connect with Dan Rose on LinkedIn or visit danjrose.com.
On this special episode of the Rundown, we are joined by Bryce Sylvester, Senior Director of Site Strategies for Team NEO. He joins us to discuss Team NEO’s upcoming Developing Opportunities event on November 14th.
We learn more from Bryce on how his career journey brought him to his current role with Team NEO, which focuses on site development and location analysis throughout the Northeast Ohio region.
Bryce and Paul discuss the importance of driving change in our communities and the significance of manufacturing attraction deals, a focus of the Developing Opportunities event. At this event, Team NEO will present a research and insights report based on recent (prior 2 years) site inventory demand. Learn more about the event here.
Bryce’s Northeast Ohio restaurant picks include Ginko, Pier W, and King Wah. Connect with Bryce Sylvester on LinkedIn to keep up with economic development news in the Northeast Ohio region.
Our guest this week is Dr. Sherry Cross, the Director of Adult Education & Assistant Principal at Youngstown City Schools.
Dr. Cross has held a variety of positions in the education field and in this episode she walks us through her career journey and how she gained her expertise. She also shares with us what adult education looks like in today’s climate and how their program keeps pace with a variety of industries to fuel demand for skilled professionals.
Other topics discussed include how manufacturing as an industry needs to keep schools informed to inspire the future workforce, how to deal with students in the age of rapidly advancing technology, as well as how K-12 education in general needs to evolve to reflect real-world demands.
Dr. Cross’ favorite restaurants in the Youngstown area are Margherita’s Grille and Barry Dyngles.
Connect with Dr. Sherry Cross on LinkedIn.
This week's guest is Carmen Gentile, Founder & Editor-at-Large of Postindustrial Media. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who is interested in the revitalization of Rust Belt communities.
In this episode, Carmen shares with us the story behind the inception of Postindustrial Media, a venture motivated by the shockwaves that the 2016 election started and driven by a mission to foster understanding of communities in the region. His unique perspective, informed by growing up in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and his experiences as a war correspondent, provides valuable insights into the complex issues facing postindustrial communities today. From gun control and immigration to the re-invention of industrial jobs, Paul and Carmen engage in a thought-provoking conversation that uncovers the importance of community and resilience.
As a Pennsylvania native, Carmen’s top choice for cheesesteaks is Pat’s King of Steaks.
Hear more from Carmen by connecting with him on LinkedIn or check out his book, Blindsided by the Taliban.
This week we are joined by Josh Cramer, the Director of Education & Workforce Development at American Makes and the National Center of Defense Manufacturing & Machining (NCDMM).
As a long-time educator, we hear Josh’s insights on how the education industry has evolved, namely the expanded opportunities for non-traditional career paths. He also shares with us his passion for workforce development, the critical work and mission at NCDMM - America Makes, and the needs of our workforce.
As a resident of Western Pennsylvania, Josh’s food recommendation is The Red Caboose for the best hot dogs.
Connect with Josh Cramer on LinkedIn.
On this episode of the Rundown, we are joined by Jim Cavoli, President & COO of Swagelok.
In this episode, we hear from Jim about his career journey with Swagelok over the years and how he approaches being a business leader. Jim and Paul also discuss manufacturing in Northeast Ohio, what Swagelok is doing to mentor careers in manufacturing, and Jim’s involvement as a board member for Global Cleveland and Greater Cleveland Partnership.
Jim’s recommendations for authentic Italian are Valerio’s in Little Italy and Giovanni’s in Beachwood.
Connect with Jim Cavoli on LinkedIn.
This week we are joined by Robert Guy for Episode 61! Robert is the Controller of WLS Stamping & Fabricating Co., a full-service short-run stamping and fabrication facility. They have two locations in the Cleveland area and have been partners with Rust Belt Recruiting since 2021.
Listen in as Robert shares his perspective on running a manufacturing operation, including finances, training their workforce, working with Rust Belt Recruiting, and more.
Robert’s Cleveland food recommendations include Amba and Salt+. Connect with Robert Guy on LinkedIn.
On this episode of the Rundown, we are joined by Shannon Lee, Executive Director of Leadership Columbus. Leadership Columbus provides state-of-the-art education and training for emerging and existing leaders.
In this episode, Paul and Shannon discuss what it means to be a leader, the nuances of leadership, and the resources that are available to prioritize learning how to be a successful leader. They also discuss the process Shannon underwent to write her book, Servant Leader Mindset. This book is designed to help people adopt the mindsets that create great organizations and teams that solve community problems and heal broken systems - all without sacrificing themselves.
Shannon’s go-to food spots in Columbus are Kitchen Social, Jeff Ruby, East Market, and Budd Dairy Food Hall.
Connect with Shannon Lee on LinkedIn to stay in the know on all things leadership in Central Ohio!
Our guest this week is Sandy Doyle-Ahern, President of EMH&T. EMH&T is a civil engineering firm based in New Albany, Ohio that offers a variety of services such as landscape architecture, infrastructure evaluation, urban design, and more.
In this episode, we learn about Sandy’s extensive career with EMH&T and how their service offerings have evolved. Paul and Sandy also discuss some key regional problems and opportunities that Central Ohio is facing such as affordable housing and rail service.
Sandy is also a member of numerous boards and organizations and she shares how her passion for community work led her to establish her own group known as ‘The Edge Sisters’.
Sandy’s favorite food spot in Columbus is True Food Kitchen.
Connect withSandy Doyle-Ahern on LinkedIn.
On this episode we are joined by Sheri Chaney Jones, the CEO & Co-Founder of SureImpact. SureImpact is a software that enables day to day case management and data collection, while also enabling organizations to manage, measure, and communicate their unique social impact in the nonprofit sector.
In this episode, Sheri shares her lessons in entrepreneurship and her insights on how social change impact is modernizing. She also discusses her inspiration for starting SureImpact as well as her other ventures as a professor and an author.
Sheri resides in Columbus and cites The Rusty Bucket as her go to spot.
Connect with Sheri Chaney Jones on LinkedIn or visit sureimpact.com to learn more!
On this episode we are joined by Sheri Chaney Jones, the CEO & Co-Founder of SureImpact. SureImpact is a software that enables day to day case management and data collection, while also enabling organizations to manage, measure, and communicate their unique social impact in the nonprofit sector. In this episode, Sheri shares her lessons in entrepreneurship and her insights on how social change impact is modernizing. She also discusses her inspiration for starting SureImpact as well as her other ventures as a professor and an author. Sheri resides in Columbus and cites The Rusty Bucket as her go to spot. Connect with Sheri Chaney Jones on LinkedIn or visit sureimpact.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We have an exciting episode this week on the Rundown! Taylor Evans (Founder & Owner, Rust Belt Recruiting) takes over as host this week to help our listeners get to know his close friend and our host, Paul O’Connor. This is a great episode to learn more about the host you hear each week. Listen in to learn about why they chose Episode 57 for this conversation, how Paul and Taylor became friends at OU and more about Paul’s background in podcasts and his career outside of podcasting. This conversation also includes Paul’s favorite parts about hosting the Rundown, discussions about Cleveland’s unique identity and lessons in entrepreneurship. Paul resides in Columbus so his local recommendations include Jackie O’s on Fourth (of course), Paulie Gee’s for the best pizza in Columbus and Stav’s Diner for your classic greasy spoon spot. Connect with Paul O’Connor on LinkedIn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week we are joined by Kyle Triplett, Director of Aluminum at Olympic Steel! In this episode Paul and Kyle discuss their experiences at Ohio University and how their student involvement influenced and enhanced their careers. Kyle tells us about his extensive career with Olympic Steel and how his role and the company has expanded over the years. Paul and Kyle also discuss the benefits of careers in the manufacturing industry and how many different opportunities there are as the workforce continues to evolve. For Kyle’s favorite food shoutouts, he mentions Brenen’s Coffee Cafe as an Athens favorite and Prosperity Social Club as a Cleveland favorite. Connect with Kyle Triplett on LinkedIn.
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Our guest this week is Dr. Ethan Karp, President and CEO of MAGNET: The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network. In this episode we learn about Ethan’s educational background and what led him to ultimately pursue the impact that business and manufacturing can make. He shares with us the vision of MAGNET and how they aim to grow the local economy through collaboration. He offers us his insight on how the workforce is evolving and how automation and technology play into that as well as the workplace flexibility that is emerging in manufacturing. Read Ethan’s Forbes article on employee flexibility here. He also shares with us the importance of providing an experience to showcase careers in manufacturing and how it becomes a powerful marketing tool because of the social proof that it creates. MAGNET offers these experiences at their new headquarters in Cleveland’s Hough neighborhood. Ethan’s top pick for food in Cleveland is Li Wah in Asiatown. Connect with Ethan Karp on LinkedIn and check out makeitbetterohio.org to learn more about MAGNET’s impact.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Michael Ciatto joins us on this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown! Michael is the SVP and Supply Chain Service Line CEO at Genpact, a global professional services firm.
Michael talks about his experience at Dickinson College and how it connected him to mentors and offered him a more global perspective. Those experiences, along with the Rust Belt work ethic he inherited from his family, helped to shape his mindset and launch his career. He got his start in operations and supply chain management with a private equity group that then led to his role with Genpact.
Michael tells us about his role with Genpact and the different ways that they serve their clients. He also offers his expertise on global supply chain trends and predictions. He touches on subjects such as how COVID highlighted the volatility of supply chains, geopolitical factors that affect supply chains and trends around reshoring.
Michael is based in Austin so of course we asked him for his best BBQ recommendations. Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue, or Terry Black’s BBQ were his top choices.
Interested in keeping up with current trends and news around supply chains? Connect with Michael on LinkedIn!
On this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown, we are joined by Nick Kasik, Director of Operations at the Hermanson Company. With over 30 years of experience as a construction executive, Nick has poured his experience and passion into “making the trades cool again”.
Listen in as he shares the mission of his non-profit group, Working Class, and the different mediums they use to help young people explore the skilled trades. He also offers us insight on his role at the Hermanson Company and his work with the National Association of Construction Professionals.
Nick is our first West Coast guest! If you find yourself in Oregon, he recommends Buster’s Barbecue for old-school, Texas-style, BBQ. Check out Working Class online for more information and connect with Nick Kasik on LinkedIn.
We have a special episode this week on the Rust Belt Rundown! We are joined by Taylor Evans and Nate Stansberry as they introduce us to their newest venture, Workforce Strategy Partners.
Rust Belt Recruiting has just reached five years of business under Workforce LLC and the family of companies is expanding to include WSP. WSP is a talent management consultancy that delivers processes and strategies to employers to optimize their internal efforts around the attraction, selection and integration of top talent.
In this episode, Taylor and Nate share with us their entrepreneurial inspiration behind starting WSP and the shared value it has with the RBR brand. They also share what type of clients they are aiming to partner with and the impact they want to make for them.
Interested in what WSP has to offer? Reach out to Taylor Evans or Nate Stansberry on LinkedIn and follow WSP for regular updates on all things workforce strategy!
This week we are joined by Harry Moser, the Founder of Reshoring Initiative. Reshoring Initiative is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to spread the “return-manufacturing-home” message to help manufacturers realize that America is an advantageous place to produce goods.
He tells us the story of his personal experiences that inspired him to start this industry-led initiative in early 2010 and why offshoring was not the best choice for many companies in the long-term. He also explains why bringing their message to the mainstream is essential to helping manufacturers achieve success in a time of uncertainty due to factors such as COVID-19, natural disasters and political strife. He also speaks on the importance of fostering the skilled trades and why “Manufacturing Is Cool” is the message that they want to emphasize.
Connect with Harry Moser in LinkedIn to keep up with industry trends and to see how Reshoring Initiative’s expertise can help your company succeed!
Joining us this week is Hallie Crouch, the Director of Strategy and Associate Principal of Bialosky Cleveland. Bialosky Cleveland is a multidisciplinary design firm whose clients include institutions, civic organizations, government agencies, and private developers. Hallie is a strategic and trusted advisor within her company where she occupies a self-created role. She offers us insight on the power of creating positions from within and the importance of emotionally intelligent leaders.
Listen in as Hallie and Paul dive into the art of the commute, the importance of physical space and interpersonal relationships in your career, the value in pursuing non-traditional paths and Hallie’s experience with the Cleveland Bridge Builders Program.
Hallie resides in Akron and she recommends Square Scullery, which can be described as “punk rock meets gourmet” and the Akron institution, Diamond Grill.
Connect with Hallie Crouch on LinkedIn to see what her, Bialosky Cleveland, and the Cleveland Bridge Builders are up to!
In this episode, we are joined by the Executive Director of the Cleveland/Cuyahoga County Workforce Development Board, Michelle Rose. Listen in as Michelle shares her experience at the federal level with the U.S. Department of Labor and her return to Cleveland in this new era of leadership in our city as an appointee of Mayor Justin Bibb.
Michelle offers us insight on the newfound buying power that workers have and what that means for employers and businesses, discusses overcoming barriers to work and training and how that relates to the transportation paradox, and what the shift to remote work means for Downtown Cleveland.
She names Rasika Indian Restaurant as her favorite food spot from her time in D.C. and as a proud Miami University alumna, she recommends Skipper’s chicken salad sandwich with waffle fries and a beer tower if you ever find yourself in Oxford.
Connect with Michelle Rose on LinkedIn and follow @OMJCleCuy on Twitter to stay in the know on all things workforce development related in Cuyahoga County.
Mick Jendrisak joins us on today’s episode of the Rust Belt Rundown. Listen in as Mick discusses his role at Pilot Plastics, their philosophy on workforce development, and the many service offerings they have to offer.
Mick also takes the time to discuss the sales process of finding a new client in this industry, workforce automation and what it entails, and other future trends to expect over the next decade. Also, expect to hear about Pilot Plastic’s recent rebrand, issuing a brand new website, logo, and more for the company!
If you find yourself in Athens, OH, home to Mick's alma mater Ohio University, feel free to check out some of his favorite restaurants! Look no further than Casa Nueva for Mexican cuisine, and Union Street Diner for their hash browns!
Are you interested in learning more about Pilot Plastics and their industry? Connect with Mick Jendrisak on LinkedIn.
We are joined by Ryan Landau, Founder of Purpose Jobs in this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown. Ryan discusses the revitalization of Detroit and other similar cities in the Midwest, detailing how and why to retain recent college graduates in their local workforce.
Listen in as Ryan takes us through his motivation for completing 5 Ironman triathlons, the effects of the pandemic on recent college graduates, and his experience with the founding of his company.
When asked, Ryan gave us two great dining options both in Columbus and Detroit. If you are in the Columbus area, Ryan recommends The Pearl, a tavern with an exquisite brown sugar and brown butter pie. Ryan's favorite spot in his hometown of Detroit is Flowers of Vietnam.
Interested in learning more? Connect with Ryan Landau on LinkedIn for more insight into this industry.
Matt Secrist of Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP joins us in this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown. Matt recently joined Taft as an employee benefit and executive compensation attorney. Listen in as Matt discusses his time in the employee benefits industry, his new role with Taft, and some of the potential tax implications of remote work.
If you find yourself in Chagrin Falls, check out a few of Matt’s favorite spots to eat! M Italian is his go-to for Italian cuisine, and Flipside is his favorite spot for a burger.
Are you interested in keeping up with current trends in employee benefits? Connect with Matt Secrist on LinkedIn to stay up to date on trends in this industry!
In this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown, we speak with Sam Friedman, Brand Director of Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve. Since moving back to Cleveland from his teaching job in Spain, Sam has helped to take family-owned Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve from his mother's kitchen to the successful online retailer it is today.
Sam's favorite spot in Cleveland is called Hingetown, home to Amba, a newly opened Indian restaurant, and Larder, a European-style deli that combines traditional ingredients with a modern style.
Listen in as Sam discusses his time living in Europe, getting Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve off the ground, and his experiences in the Cleveland political scene. Feel free to keep up with him by connecting with Sam Friedman on LinkedIn.
Start your career by saying yes! In this episode, we're joined by Roslyn Quarto, Director of Workforce Innovation at Towards Employment. Listen in as she takes through her diverse career journey and gives advice to recent and upcoming grads on how to approach the world outside of college.
We’re going abroad for this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown with logistics ninja, Ms. Ashley Lawson. Ashley is the Vice President and Managing Partner of Achieve Incentives & Meetings. Since the global pandemic began, Ashley set out to save her family business by proving that global travel was still safe (safer even in some parts) with only a backpack and her partner. After years in non-profit, Ashley said this was her chance to “serve in a different way”. Listen in to this episode as Ashley spills the tea on travel and business during a global pandemic.
And, even though Ashley is enjoying different foods from around the world, she still favors Barrio tacos and chip dip from Moosehead Saloon in Bay Village. Thank you Ashley for sharing your story! You can follow Ashley’s adventures by connecting with her and Achieve Incentives & Meetings on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn.
In this episode of the Rust Belt Rundown, we speak with Tanya Budler, Founder of Rise Together. Tanya co-created Rise Together, an impact consulting firm in Cleveland, because she truly believes that cities thrive when workforce, economic development and international newcomer communities work together.
And don’t be fooled, just because Tanya is a Cleveland newbie does not mean she came unprepared! When asked, Tanya said Mason’s Creamery helped sell her on the city and Ready, Set, Coffee is phenomenal. Her favorite place though, is Cassa located across from CSU; the restaurant is immigrant owned and he very warmly welcomed her to the city the first time they met.
Listen in to this powerful conversation and help us welcome Tanya by connecting with her where you can!
In episode 33 of the Rust Belt Rundown, we’re joined by Andy McCartney, President of Bowden Manufacturing. Andy leads the conversation with lessons about leadership and teamwork learned from his experience in the Navy and from his love of sports. Being the president of a manufacturing organization, Andy knows the importance of workforce retention and keeping the interest of all generations. Bowden Manufacturing understands that it’s no longer good enough to have a good job; people want a great job and great opportunities.
Paul and Andy finish their conversation with a quick check in of their March Madness brackets and Andy gives his restaurant recommendation. As an east-sider, Andy and his family love Sara’s Place by Gavi’s in Gates Mills.
Tune in to their conversation to hear how this manufacturing organization is staying true to their team and the changes they have made over the years to attract and keep quality employees.
In this episode, we’re joined by Northeast Ohio career development experts, Ned Barnett of Polaris Career Center, Dustin Peugeot of Matrix Trade Institute, and Tim Duffy of Cleveland Industrial Training Center. These three panelists discuss the future of skilled trades in our region and the importance of educating high school students on the meaningful career options within the trades.
In honor of Women's History Month, we're joined by Beth Dawson, Apprenticeship Program Manager at Manufacturing Works, and Sara Tracey, Managing Director of Workforce Services at The Ohio Manufacturers' Association, who talk share their personal journeys of building a meaningful career as a woman in manufacturing, as well as a robust discussion on the challenges and opportunities women have on manufacturing and the impact they create.
We're joined by Arian May, Director of Advancement at OhioGuidestone and she talks through the mission, values, and impact they work on every day to create a path for families and individuals to pursue a meaningful life and make a difference in their communities.
In this episode, we talk all things sports, community, and leadership with Rachel Stentz-Baugher, Vice President of Administration & Development at the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. She goes into detail about how she got to where she is today with the Commission, the exciting growth they’ve experienced over the years, and what things look like for the future of the Cleveland sports community!
In this episode, we’re joined by Jacob Duritsky, Vice President of Strategy and Research at Team NEO who shares how they work to connect strategy, resources, community, education, and opportunity to sell our region to innovative businesses looking for a place to call home.
In this episode, we’re joined by CEO of The City Club of Cleveland, Dan Moulthrop, and discuss a variety of Cleveland topics from the founding of the City Club and the impact they work to create in our local communities to education systems, career opportunities, economics, and funding programs.
We’re joined by Dave Gutheil, Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of Cleveland, and he talks through the root issues to the United States' current supply chain issues. He explains how smaller ports, like the Port of Cleveland, could make a big difference in alleviating the bottleneck and save customers time and money.
President & CEO of Majestic Steel and Founder of four other businesses, our featured guest Todd Leebow has a lot going on. In this episode, we talk through his experience working in his family-owned steel business and how the pandemic has affected industrial supply chains throughout the US as well as the countless passion projects he's pursuing through his many different businesses all focused on making an impact in the greater Cleveland communities.
President & CEO of Majestic Steel USA
Founder of Kind of One Concepts
Founder of Bond Street Group
Founder of Felux
Founder of Sozo Workwear
In this episode, we’re joined by Jason Scales, Business Manager of Education at Lincoln Electric who has dedicated ten years at Lincoln to pushing the envelope on education, advancement, and celebration of America’s skilled workforce. Jason shares his knowledge of today’s workforce issues and initiatives, as well as the many opportunities he’s helped create to facilitate stronger trade development initiatives.
In this episode, we meet with Matthew Fieldman, Executive Director of America Works who shares insight on their nationwide initiative to coordinate manufacturing workforce development efforts in the Manufacturing Extension Partnership National Network.
Sean Cwynar, CFO of Diamond Metals, shares insider knowledge on how essential manufacturing is to our economy, grazing the surface of how many local manufacturers switched gears to help fight the COVID 19 pandemic. He also speaks on the importance of guiding high schoolers to attend trade schools and how the manufacturing industry is actively rebuilding its reputation for offering meaningful careers
On Episode 21, we’re welcoming Nate Stansberry to the Rust Belt Recruiting team as our new Director of Recruiting. Nate shares insight on his years of experience as a recruiting expert, his predictions on the evolving job market, recommendations for small and large businesses facing talent acquisition challenges, and even some cool facts about fishing!
Content, Careers, and Cleveland!
We’re joined by special guest Joey Kinsley, also known as Sir Yacht, Content Creator loved by all Ohioans, known for his hilarious videos poking fun at sports and all things Ohio. Sir Yacht gives us a rundown of his career in content production and how he got to build a following of thousands.
In this episode, we talk with Tammi Nagucki, Director of Marketing at Environmental Design Group and EDG Creative about the importance of marketing and communication throughout all industries regardless of the work or products produced, and the impact it can have on business and community.
On this episode, we meet with Ohio State Representative Terrence Upchurch of District 10 and talk all things Cleveland. From public policy to local legislation Representative Upchurch shares details on some of the Bills and other initiatives he’s pushing to improve some of our favorite Cleveland neighborhoods and the State of Ohio as a whole.
Emily Lundgard, Senior Director of State & Local Policy at Enterprise Community Partners gives us the rundown on the ways she believes Ohio’s housing issues can best be addressed through equitable development, public funding, community programs, and partnerships throughout the state. With her long history of working in the public sector, Emily also gives her expert opinion on how Cuyahoga County and the City of Cleveland could best utilize funding from the American Rescue Plan to create the foundation in building a stronger infrastructure for our communities.
Ohio’s tech industry has seen tremendous growth in the last few years. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Berry, who is President of the first non-profit organization dedicated to growing the state of Ohio into one of the nation’s leading tech hubs. Chris talks about his time working for the state of Ohio, working in the public sector, trends in tech and start-ups, and how OhioX is working to drive venture capital.
It’s only appropriate to chat with Allison Grealis, President of Women in Manufacturing Association & Education Foundation, to close out Women’s History Month. Allison shares her personal journey on creating an impact on the industry and some of the initiatives and opportunities WIM offers to give all women in manufacturing an equal chance of success.
What does the future of manufacturing and skilled trades look like for Ohio? We talk with Lt. Governor Jon Husted on what he thinks we can expect for the next couple of years and gives us the rundown on some of the different programs he’s working on to boost the industry.
Brandon Chrostowski joins us on episode 13 to share details on how EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute mentors students as they navigate re-entry. From training and employment to housing and medical care, tune in to learn more about how EDWINS provides a platform for creating a fair and equal future for formerly incarcerated adults.
We’re starting the new year off with an exciting episode featuring Mayor of Cleveland Candidate and Chief Strategy Officer of Urbanova, Justin Bibb. Listen in as Justin talks about his career journey from working in Washington, D.C. to his passion projects for Cleveland and his ideas on improving our local community.
What does it take to have a large corporation move its operations to Cleveland and impact the community? In this episode, we talk with Jay Foran, Senior Vice President of TeamNEO, who shares his experience educating businesses on the benefits of moving their mid-sized startup or their large enterprise conglomerate into the heart of NorthEast Ohio.
Passion projects, entrepreneurship, and coffee. In this episode, we speak with Cleveland business owner Pete Brown of Six Shooter Coffee and discuss everything from roasting beans in his basement to sharing details about the coffee business and his experience growing a startup into an authentic shop loved by locals.
On this episode, listen in as we talk with Steve Peplin, the CEO of Talan Products about current trends in metal press, LED lighting, solar, and electric transportation. As an industry expert, Steve shines a light on how these industries have evolved over the past several decades and shares his input on what’s expected in the future.
From early stem programs and public policy to reentry programs and unemployment, listen in as we talk with Bishara Addison of Towards Employment about hot topics in the Cleveland workforce and the many opportunities we as a community can get involved with to improve it.
In this week's episode, we chat with the National Association of Manufacturers Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Chris Schmitt. Listen in as we talk about the impact the Conoravirus has had on manufacturing in the Midwest alongside the economic and workforce challenges manufacturing has been facing for the past decade, and what is being done to stimulate the industry.
Listen in as we talk with Christopher Nance, the Vice President of Construction & Inclusive Talent Initiatives at the Greater Cleveland Partnership. Christopher shares details of the impact the GCP has on the Cleveland community since its start and what they are doing today to help local businesses in all industries that continue to grow our wonderful city.
Join us as we chat with Tayte Lutz, Director of Marketing at French Oil Mill Machinery, and talk through her career journey, the French Oil's origin story, and the state of manufacturing in Ohio.
In this week's Rundown, listen in as we talk with industry veteran and CEO of Technical Alchemy, LLC, Roy Hardy. Roy shares his approach to keeping up employee morale as well as current workforce trends throughout the trades.
On our third episode of the Rust Belt Rundown, Rust Belt Recruitings' very own, James Smith discusses how the day-to-day operations of a recruiting firm specializing in the skilled trades have changed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
On our second episode of the Rust Belt Rundown, Jamie Karl of the Ohio Manufacturing Association and Nick Fopiano talk about marketing and communication trends to best reach audiences in manufacturing and the trades in the COVID-19 era.
Tune in to our first episode of the Rust Belt Rundown! Listen in as we talk with Taylor Evans, President of Rust Belt Recruiting, and kick off our show by explaining our mission of offering insight to our listeners on impact-driven business, the essential industry of manufacturing, and what might lie ahead in the coming months.