Working It: Recent Episodes
Proudly Sponsored By Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs
“Working It!” – Defiance County, Ohio Podcast – Proudly Sponsored by Defiance County’s Ohio Means Jobs Defiance County, Ohio is pulsing with creative, innovative problem solving, and ripe with growth for opportunities for all industries. The “Working It” Podcast takes a behind the scenes look at local business leaders and their companies. What will you gain, by tuning in? You will get cutting edge tips when it comes to business trends everything from marketing tips to workforce development tricks that really work.
Erika and Paige Johnson are joined by Hicksville Area Chamber of Commerce President Jodi Bland. They talk about all the positive energy and community involvement in Hicksville, how Jodi has been part of the Chamber from the beginning, the incredible contributions from their board, Chamber events like the Teacher Back To School Breakfast, Hicksville’s abundance of cool shops and boutiques, recent business expansion, and more! Including, of course, The Mural.
Erika is joined by Lisa Becher of the Small Business Development Center. Lisa talks about her background as a small business owner and instructor at Northwest State Community College, shares some success stories from the annual Entrepreneurship Forum (kind of a mini “Shark Tank”), and offers tips on starting a small business, from marketing to hiring to writing a business plan. Thanks to OhioMeansJobs of Defiance and Paulding County for sponsoring “Working It”!
Erika chats with Chase Eikenbary and Jessica Sattler of the Regional Growth Partnership. They tell how RGP works with JobsOhio in site selection and incentive management and how they’ve teamed with Defiance County Economic Development. They also talk about Defiance County’s recent wins like MetalX and Keller Logistics, and how the Vibrant Communities Grant is being used at a prime downtown Defiance location!
Erika gets down to business with Kirstie Mack of the Defiance Main Street & Visitors Bureau. They talk about their new name, upcoming events like the Lilac Festival and Chocolate Walk, some cool local independent downtown businesses, the bureau’s downtown wish list, and “Preaching The Positive”!
On this episode of “Working It”, Erika sits down with Andie Imthurn of Eclectic Wallflower Boutique in Defiance. They talk about Eclectic Wallflower’s over 50 independent vendors offering everything from honey to plants to vintage items, their amazing stock of prom dresses, how important it is to create a sense of community, the benefits of shopping locally and sustainably, and trends…The 90s are coming back including (gasp!) mullets! Thanks to Ohio Means Jobs of Defiance County for Sponsoring this podcast!
Erika is joined by Rebecca Singer of the Center For Innovative Food Technology (CIFT). Rebecca explains the idea of functional foods, and talks about streamlining food production and supply chains, sustainable food packaging, workforce training, and CIFT’s most visible success story, Willy’s Salsa. That’s a lot to “CIFT” through, but you’ll be amazed at the work they’re doing!
Erika is joined by Drew Shindler, president of Baker-Shindler Company. Drew tells us he wanted to join the family business at an early age (maybe even before he can remember!) He talks about being in charge of a huge project early in his career, the growth of the company over the last century, and how recent big economic wins are leading Baker-Shindler to expand their workforce. From bridges to grain terminals and wind turbines, what Baker-Shindler Company really builds is relationships.
Erika takes a deep dive into the state of manufacturing in northwest Ohio with Tim Mayle of the Center To Advance Manufacturing at Bowling Green State University. They talk about how the Innovation Hub connects higher education with major industries, and look at apprentice programs, evolving supply chain practices, working with multinational workforces, improved databases, and challenges being addressed by The Center For Automotive Research…All with the goal of making our local economy even better!
Defiance Mayor Mike McCann is back in the “Working It” guest chair. He and Erika talk about the recent huge announcements from MetalX and Keller Logistics, Defiance’s diverse manufacturing history, downtown pedestrian safety initiatives, and the continued challenges in building new housing for a growing workforce. What does Defiance want to accomplish in 2024 and beyond? Listen and find out! Thanks to OhioMeansJobs for sponsoring this program!
Hicksville’s new Mayor, Mike Barth, joins Erika on this episode of “Working It”. He talks about spending part of his childhood in Hicksville, his experience on Village Council, and everything Hicksville has to offer including a diverse downtown shopping district, robust manufacturing community, and some great available industrial sites. Hicksville’s slogan is “A Proud Past, A Bright Future”…Listen and you’ll understand why!
Defiance College has been part of our education landscape for over a century and a half. DC President Dr. Richanne Mankey and Vice President For Enrollment Management Dr. Jeremy Taylor talk about how Defiance College is “ReDEFIning The Future” through improved affordability and accessibility, athletic scholarships, the Jacket Journey program, DC’s new engineering program, and an incredible story about the McMaster School. They also offer thoughts on how to make our community more aware and involved concerning everything Defiance College.
Workforce Trends. It’s the phrase of 2023, where if you hear, your eyes glaze over. That’s because we’ve heard it so much! BUT…we’re talking about it in a different way! With Erika, Paige, and Dave, all being from different generations, they talk about
How employees shouldn’t be judged by their age, but rather their own merit. Also, it turns out when you have different generations you can learn from one another!
Get to know the Defiance County Economic Development Team and the various initiatives they are working on, in an effort to make a difference in the Defiance County Community. Erika Willitzer, Paige Johnson, and our new Marketing & Office Coordinator Dave Hire talk all things Defiance County. Dave Hire is only three months on the job, and Paige and Erika are throwing him onto a podcast. If you know anything about Dave’s work history…he’ll survive! 😉
Northwest State Community College – Northwest Ohio: President and CEO of Northwest State, Todd Hernandez talks Workforce Shortages, Skill Gaps, and how Northwest State is working toward solutions to help employers & students every day. Learning about Todd’s unique background and how he became the President of a Community College is quite fascinating. Let’s just say his career includes military, IT, and more. Bottom line: You can do and be whoever you want in this life. Hear about his inspiring story, plus find out how Northwest State can help you realize your dream.
Patriot Rail – Defiance County, Ohio: Many are fascinated by Trains, and we can see why! They truly are what moves most of the goods around America. Erika talks rail, economy, and so much more with James Kornas of Patriot Rail. Fun Fact: Did you know rail roads transport even animal lard? True Story! Also, did you know Defiance County sits in a unique location when it comes to rail – so unique – it has companies from all over the world looking at Defiance County to site their new Headquarters. Thanks to OhioMeansJobs of Defiance County for sponsoring this program!
Balchem – Defiance, Ohio: Erika interviews Kenyotta Stantz and Joe Wendell from Defiance’s Balchem Plant. If you have ever smelled the aroma of sweet blueberries or cocoa powder in Downtown Defiance. There’s a good chance it is coming from Balchem. Learn about the amazing products being produced in Defiance. Also, learn about how you can land a Food Scientist position right here in Defiance County, Ohio.
Sabre Industries – Hicksville, Ohio Tom Jagielski and Tiffany Vollmer with Sabre take a deep dive into how they support the power grid by making transmission power poles. They also talk about the amazing opportunities awaiting job seekers at their plant. If you want an innovative career. This is it!
Listen in to find out how this Hicksville Company is having a national impact from the small town of Hicksville.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with Angie Franklin to discuss services offered by our local Community Actions Commission. Services include Publicly Funded Childcare, Head Start Preschool, Emergency Assistance, Financial Empowerment, Housing, Homelessness, and Weather & Home Repairs. Angie says it best in this podcast, “if you don’t need it, you don’t know about it”. Tune in to listen to services that maybe you aren’t aware of but could help someone in need. The motto at NOCAC, “Helping People & Changing Lives” …and Angie & her team are doing just that!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by a relatively new face at General Motors Defiance, but a seasoned veteran within the General Motors company. New Plant Director, Derrick Parson, took the reins in Defiance just a few months ago, but has been with the company since an internship in 1995. He goes on to describe his journey that has taken him to multiple plants and shown him the endless possibilities that GM has to offer. Endless possibilities aren’t the only thing GM has to offer, but they are dedicated to their Community Grant Program. Tune in to hear the amount of time and dollars donated to local non-profit organizations to help communities across the country.
On this Episode of the “Working It” Podcast Host Erika Willitzer talks with the Owner of Buckeye Roofing & Exteriors Lance Sherry. Lance shares about the reward of being in the construction industry, along with building a work culture that supports families. His passion for his family, his work, his team, and his community are awe inspiring. Tune in to hear how this community leader is juggling it all, and with a smile!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah talk with who most of Defiance know as, “the guy who went to City Council to pitch an NFL Football Team” …. his real name, John Druska. John was born in Ft. Wayne, IN, but then shortly after moved to Defiance and spent his first 9 years of life here. He currently resides in Los Angeles, California where he is pursuing acting and screenwriting. He describes some of the movies and tv shows he thinks would be a perfect fit for our rural, Midwest community. Listen in to hear how John has dreams of bringing arts and film into Defiance, Ohio.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by one of the areas top contractors, Bob Spyker of Spyker Contracting. Bob discusses how he got started in the construction industry at the young age of 15. He started off learning the basics and then was given the job of constructing pole barns with a team under him. This eventually led him to wanting to form him own company, known today as Spyker Contracting. Tune in to hear all the projects in Defiance County that are currently in the works that Bob and his team have a hand in. We’d also like to congratulate Spyker Contracting for being awarded a 2023 Top Metal Builder in the Metal Construction News Magazine, May Edition.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika, Hannah, and Paige provide an update about what’s going on in the office. They start things off with Hannah explaining the Grand Re-Opening of Goodwill Industries, along with the launch of the Job Connection Center and how this will be a huge benefit to Defiance County and hopefully surrounding communities. Next Paige takes over and discusses the Four Flags of Freedom campaign – listen in to see exactly where these flags will be placed! Erika follows with updates on all the projects she is working on in the county. Wrapping things up they each provide a “nugget of knowledge” from their areas of expertise.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by the City of Defiance Mayor, Mike McCann. To updated roadwork being done in the City to all of the open sites available for development, they discuss it all! And to top it off, a recently announced grant that allows to keep improving the quality of life right here in Defiance, Ohio! Tune in to hear what the Mayor says is his greatest accomplishment since the beginning of his term.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with Rocky again to hear about the best practices regarding the labor shortage. He explains how employers are starting to get very creative with how they operate with their employees. Rocky also discusses “Apprenticeships” and is busting all the myths! And tune in to learn about the relationship between the Greater Ohio Workforce Board and your local OhioMeansJobs.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by 2 top members of The Greater Ohio Workforce Board, John & Rocky. John provides great statistics on the labor shortage and 4 key takeaways you won’t want to miss. He explains how they looked outside of the box during the Covid pandemic to gather data…” social media listening”. John discusses what entices the difference generations back into the workforce. Stay tuned to listen to the number 1 benefit wanted in the workplace by almost every generation! Any guesses?!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah discuss all things design with Karen from The JDI Group. What does The JDI Group do? Listen in to hear Karen explain all the market sectors they support, which may be one of their best kept secrets. JDI’s mission is to turn clients’ visions into working realities that address their wants and needs while exceeding their expectations. And they do just that day in and day out.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with Gerken Paving to discuss who they are and the endless employment opportunities that are available. Many people in Northwest Ohio know the name Gerken Paving, but what they don’t know is the many sister companies that come with the Gerken name. They are a one-stop shop when it comes to the asphalt and concrete business. Listen in to find out more about the Gerken Companies. A special thanks to Ohio Means Jobs of Defiance County for making this program possible!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by local dairy farmer and businessowner, Lambert VanderMade. Lambert and his family transitioned to the United States from the Netherlands to pursue dairy farming when he was just a young adult. Fast forward to today, Lambert has been part-owner of Arps Dairy for 7 years. He said there is much pride in keeping milk products local. There are 13 dairy farms that feed into Arps Dairy, all located within 20 miles of Defiance, Ohio. Keep listening for a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT from Lambert himself!
On this episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with Four County Career Center’s newest leader, Superintendent, Jeff Slattery. Jeff discusses the path he took to get to where he is today, and it isn’t your ordinary story. Starting out in the Manufacturing Industry, then deciding to go back to college for Education and becoming a teacher, then ending up in the Healthcare Industry, and eventually back to Education in 2012. He’s been on the job at Four County since January and learning the in’s and out’s of Tech School. He explains the benefits, but also some struggles that are taking place at Four County Career Center. Thanks to OhioMeansJobs of Defiance County for sponsoring this program!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika, Hannah, and Paige dive into what exactly their roles are here at the Economic Development Office. They each get a chance to discuss their positions along with some of the initiatives they have for 2023. Tune in to see how our office can assist you, how you can get involved in some of our programs, and why investing in Defiance County is so important!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with Drake Jimenez of Holy Hill Media. A hometown guy that moved away from Defiance County, but eventually found his way back. His main goal is educating the community about digital marketing and in today’s age, businesses must be budgeting for it. Drake explains the importance of branding your company and being consistent on all platforms. Learn what a Digital Ecosystem is, why its important and how to build it.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by recent college graduate, Julianne Roop. Julianne discusses how working at iScribeMD has helped her succeed in her college career, but more importantly, how it has elevated her as she is about to head off to PA school in Florida. But, what is a Medical Scribe? Turns out, they are right here in one of our Defiance County Hospitals! Listen in as she informs us the importance of what she does and how Defiance benefits from medical scribes.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah discuss all things workforce with the workforce guru herself, Denise Dahl. They deep dive into multiple aspects of current workforce issues such as having a work life balance, quality vs quantity, and overworked employees. They also discuss burnout in the workplace. Tune in to hear who is the most burnt out and why that is.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by Hicksville native, Taylor Klepper of Klepper Building Company. Taylor discusses why he and his wife decided to move back to Hicksville, Ohio after spending a couple years in the bigger city life. Upon his return, he has made it his personal goal to turn Hicksville into a place where younger generations want to return and raise a family. Finding that 3rd location is key – a place to hangout outside of home and work. Tune in to hear not only Taylor’s personal goals, but the goals of Klepper Building Company as well – starting with revitalizing a downtown building!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with Ashley DeLuca to discuss her journey of marketing through many ups and downs. She explains the business plan she made at NWSCC is now what she uses daily as her guide through running her own business. Ashley offers many tips and advises all companies, big or small, to use email marketing as leverage for their workforce needs. Tune in to hear Ashley share a wealth of knowledge in her expert market, E-mail Marketing!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika is joined by Tiffany Goings, Workforce Supervisor for OhioMeansJobs Defiance & Paulding Counties. They discuss the steps that need to be taken in order to start an apprenticeship program within your company. Tiffany explains all the resources and grants that are available that many companies are leaving on the table. Tune in to see how Tiffany and OhioMeansJobs can assist your company today!
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah discuss the services Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio has to offer with David and Willie. Although, they have a retail store in Defiance, they are looking to expand their mission right here in Defiance County. One program they focus heavily on is their Reentry Program. Being a reentry citizen himself, Willie stresses the importance of a second chance, “When you start investing in those returning citizens, you will see a change and it will trinkle into the entire community.” Tune in to what David & Willie have to say, you won’t want to miss how Willie got to where he is today.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah join two of Mercy Health Defiance Hospital’s key employees. Sonya and Jeff discuss which positions are in the highest need for not only their campus, but across the healthcare system. To help fill this gap, Mercy has developed the “Guild Program” which provides monetary assistance to those wanting to go into the healthcare field. The “Guild Program” is just one of the many benefits Mercy has to offer, which is why they have been selected as one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 100 Places to work.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah sit down with April Moore-Powers of Powers of CPR, LLC. Tune in to hear how her tragedy of losing her sister turned into her passion of teaching others how to save lives. April discusses the variety of classes she teaches and her desire for being in the medical field. She is dedicated to what she does and prides herself on teaching her students until they fully grasp every aspect of CPR.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika and Hannah are joined by two of ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital’s finest employees. Jack and Jill reminisce on their time at ProMedica as the location celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year. The family-like environment is a quality they both agreed was one of the many aspects they enjoy about working at ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital. Their main goal is to keep Defiance patients in Defiance by providing specialized services that are not often offered to smaller sized hospitals. Listen in to see what some of those services are and about the many work opportunities they have available. And you won’t want to miss their best kept secret when it comes to their Women’s Center…. Spinning Babies.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika discusses the housing issues in Defiance County with one of the area’s top sales agents, Matt Joost, Broker/Owner of Re/Max Realty of Defiance. Is the housing market crashing or rebalancing? Tune in to find out what housing expert, Matt, has to say.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika joins Defiance County’s OMJ’s Workforce Supervisor, Tiffany Goings. People will often say, “this is too good to be true” and it usually is, but with OhioMeansJobs & Tiffany Goings, IT IS TRUE. Their services are free and very underutilized. Listen to Tiffany discuss how to take advantage of their free offerings.
On this Episode of Working It, Erika sits down with the City of Defiance Mayor, Mike McCann. Listen in as they discuss the key to solving the workforce issue here in Defiance County. He also shares the kind of legacy he hopes to leave behind.
On his episode of Working It Erika and Kortney talk with Beth Sigg of Northwest Realty. Join us as this former teacher turned entrepreneur shares a wealth of knowledge and good old commons sense about starting a business. She also shares her expert opinion on the housing market and how Defiance County real estate is still one of the best bargains and options for those wanting to settle down and raise a family. This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Ohio Means Jobs of Defiance County.
On this episode of Working It Erica and Kortney sit down with Nemco Food Equipment HR Manager and Controller Michelle Rumpz. From its humble beginnings with the spiral fry potato cutter to becoming the market driver in the food service prep industry both domestically and internationally, Nemco Food equipment truly is a gem in the heart of Defiance County. This episode is proudly sponsored by Ohio Means Jobs of Defiance County.
On this episode of Working It, Erika and Kortney spend time chatting with the President/CEO of the Sherwood State Bank, Mickey Schwarzbek. Mickey got his start in the financial service industry right out of the military and never looked back. He shares his philosophy on what makes a community bank successful, and how the Sherwood State Bank can help families and businesses analyze their financial situations and chart a course for success. This Working It episode is proudly sponsored by Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs.
On this episode of Working it, Erika and Kortney catch up with Dave Mansfield and Sonia Nofziger-Dasgupta of Envirokure. Dave is the Hicksville Plant Manager and Sonia, who is in Philadelphia, PA, is the Director of Business Development. They give us a little personal history and then talk about an organization that has grown from a garage project to being the only company to patent and commercialize biostimulant technology derived from nature’s finest fertilizer – chicken manure. With the new flagship production facility nearing completion in Hicksville, EnviroKure will be able to produce biostimulants to service 4 million acres. This Working It episode is proudly sponsored by Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs.
On this episode of Working It, Erika and Kortney are joined by Sherri Hammersmith. Sherri is the office manager for Clemens Welding and JLC Transportation. On this podcast Sherri talks about the family culture created by the leadership at Clemens and JLC, and how they continue to grow in our region thanks to the quality of their work and customer service they provide. You'll want to listen until the end to hear this office manager's best kept secret for keeping morale high around the shop! This podcast is proudly sponsored by Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs.
On this episode of Working It Erika and Kortney are joined by Diana Savage. Diana is the Director of Business Development at Beilharz Architects. She started her thirty-two-year career in education as a teacher and closed out the last thirteen as the Superintendent of Bryan City Schools. Now she brings her years of administrative experience to the business world and helps us understand the latest developments, and trends, associated with the design and construction of projects here in our community. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs!
On this episode of Working It Erika and Kortney are joined by Jamie Fleming from The Fun Factory. Jamie fills us in on the history of The Fun Factory and how its roots date all the way back to 1984 when her father Kenny VanStreader opened Fun Costumes and Novelties. Fast forward to today as Jamie shares with us some marketing secrets that have helped grow the business to what it is today! This podcast is proudly sponsored by Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs.
Big things are happening in the small village of Sherwood Ohio. On this episode of Working it, Sherwood Mayor Jack Stantz tells us about himself and how he became the mayor of Sherwood. He shares with us some of the success stories, and some of what the future holds for this thriving community located at the corner of State Routes 18 and 127 in Defiance County. Thank you to the Defiance County Ohio Means Jobs office for making this program possible.
On this episode of Working It Erika and Kortney talk with Todd Pariseau (Plant Manager), Lisa Thiel (HR Manager) and Scott Dickenson (operations Manager) of MEC Inc. They give us an inside look at MEC and talk about some of the new technology and automation coming to their facilities that will ensure they remain one of the nation’s leading fabricators. They also highlight their company’s culture as it pertains to community relations, training their workforce, and promoting from within. Listen as we hear why this employee-owned company is considered one of the gems of Defiance County. We would like to thank Ohio Means Jobs of Defiance County for sponsoring this podcast!
On this Episode Erika, Kortney and Sonya break away from their regular format and dive into workforce retention and recruitment. They draw from their vast experience in workforce development to share some strategies that are currently working, some that aren’t and how Defiance Economic Development can help. If you find yourself struggling to attract or retain an engaged workforce, then this is not an episode you are going to want to miss!
On this episode of Working It, Erika and Kortney are joined by Tony Niswander. Tony is the President and CEO of APT Manufacturing Solutions in Hicksville, Ohio. Tony talks about how his “hands on” attitude and his love of automation contributed to the start, and success of APT. He explains how APT’s need for skilled workers led him to develop a High School Training and Apprenticeship Program. Tony’s desire for building his business, a skilled workforce, and the community he lives and works in is infectious. A special thanks to Ohio Means Jobs of Defiance County for sponsoring this program.
On this episode of Working it, Renae Tiejte HR Coordinator and Jennifer Nicelley Vice President of HR talk about what drives the Keller Logistics team. They also discuss some of the employee engagement techniques they use, as well as, what sets them apart in the areas of recruitment and training. Listen as we discover how fortunate we are to have a national company like Keller Logistics, headquartered right here in Defiance County!
Heather Fedderke is the Human Resources Manager at Maumee Valley Vending. She talks about their community involvement and one of their best kept secrets. Also, when it comes to workforce, Maumee Valley Vending is ahead of the game with their flexibility and stream-lined processes. Listen to hear more about what Maumee Valley Vending has to offer.
Cooper Farms executives Cassie Jo Arend, Corporate Communications Director and Heather Parrett, Oakwood Human Resources Mannager talk about their winning strategy and one of their best kept secrets. Also, when it comes to workforce, Cooper Farms is taking risks and those risks are paying off. Listen in to find out the secret to their success and more.
Dan Barbee, the President of Mercy Health - Toledo Rural Market, which includes Mercy Health - Defiance Hospital, Mercy Heath - Tiffin Hospital and Mercy Health - Willard Hospital…talks candidly about COVID 19 and innovative ways the hospital is impacting residents. In this engaging interview he also reveals just how engaged Mercy Health is in the community and with its team members. Truly Inspiring!
Mayor Mike McCann-Mayor of Defiance, Ohio
Mayor McCann speaks to Defiance, Ohio’s biggest assets and advantages, along with Defiance secrets every resident and nonresident should know. Also, business runs deep in Mayor McCann’s blood, he made his living being a highly engaged business leader in Defiance, Ohio…now he talks candidly how he leads the city. Being progressive and innovative, is just the tip of the iceberg for this Mayor and his team.
Tiffany Dargenson – Workforce Supervisor of Ohio Means Jobs – Defiance County, Ohio
Tiffany takes a deep dive into training grants and resources every business needs. She also talks skilled trade positions and how they are partnering to develop targeted courses. This method proves to be a win for major employers facing a labor shortage. Listen to hear about the grant opportunities and more.