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Our guest this week is John Austin, an educator, leading advocate, and a fellow at several of the nation’s premier policy and research institutions. In this episode, John shares his perspective on the evolution of manufacturing in the Midwest and why the future of economic growth depends on innovation, education, and workforce development. John also offers insight into the evolution of skills required in today’s workforce and why adapting to technological change is essential for long-term prosperity. His restaurant recommendations include Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor and Corey's in Lansing. Connect with John Austin on LinkedIn to keep up to date on his work.

This week our guest is Amy Bircher Bruyn, CEO & Founder of MMI Textiles. In this episode, Amy shares how she built MMI into a nationally recognized industrial textile brand. She discusses the evolution of the U.S. textile industry, the importance of domestic manufacturing, and why solving problems and building trusted relationships have been the foundation of MMI’s success. Amy also reflects on navigating the manufacturing world as a woman entrepreneur, mentoring the next generation, and the critical role textiles play in protecting military members and first responders. Her restaurant recommendations include two great Italian spots in Cleveland, Il Rione and Bar Italia. Connect with Amy on LinkedIn to learn more about MMI’s work.

Our guest this week is Lorne Novick, CEO of JumpStart, an entrepreneur support organization that equips tech startups and small businesses with the support they need to thrive. Lorne shares how his deep connection to JumpStart’s clients shape his leadership approach. He discusses the importance of building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Northeast Ohio, the role of grit in both startups and the region itself, and how collaboration across corporations, investors, and support organizations drives long-term economic growth. Lorne’s small business restaurant recommendation is Flour. Follow Lorne on LinkedIn to stay connected and learn more about JumpStart.

This week our guest is Scott Colosimo, the CEO of ⁠LAND⁠, a Cleveland-based electric motorcycle manufacturer. In this episode, Scott shares how his interest in motorcycles started and how it led him to discovering design and eventually entrepreneurship as a way to pursue his passions. He reflects on the role that hands-on experience, design education, and Cleveland’s manufacturing roots have played in shaping his career. Scott also dives into the future of manufacturing in the U.S., discussing the challenges of scaling, the importance of rebuilding domestic supply chains, and what it will take to inspire the next generation of makers. He offers a candid perspective on entrepreneurship, the realities of startup growth, and why Cleveland remains a powerful place to build. Scott’s restaurant recommendations include ⁠Amba⁠ and ⁠The Judith⁠. Follow ⁠Scott on LinkedIn⁠ to stay up in the know on LAND.

Our guest this week is Shakorie Davis, President and Owner of Next Generation Construction, a Cleveland-based construction company. In this episode, Shakorie shares his journey from carpenter to business owner. He talks about the power of mentorship and his commitment to ensuring the construction industry better reflects the communities it serves. He also discusses leading major projects with top Cleveland organizations and his excitement for the positive future of the region. His restaurant recommendations include Hyde Park, Morton’s, and Red—three favorites for a good steak. Follow Shakorie on LinkedIn to keep up on Next Generation Construction’s projects.

This week our guest is Tyler Adams, Vice President of Development at Junior Achievement of Greater Cleveland. In this episode, Tyler shares his personal journey with Junior Achievement—from participating as a young student to now helping lead the organization’s mission. He explains how JA empowers students to shape their futures through confidence-building, real-world experiences. He offers insight into how exposure and hands-on learning can change the way young people think about careers, particularly in manufacturing and skilled labor, and discusses shifting perceptions around higher education, workforce readiness, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. Tyler’s Cleveland-area restaurant shoutouts go to House of Creole in Downtown and Smash Pizza Kitchen in North Ridgeville. Follow Tyler on LinkedIn to stay up to date on Junior Achievement of Greater Cleveland.

Our guest this week is Sara Swisher, Vice President, Talent & Workforce for the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. In this episode, Sara shares her career journey with the Chamber and the key initiatives that the organization is focusing on, aimed at strengthening talent pipelines and supporting both employers and young job seekers. She offers her perspective at the current talent landscape in Northwest Ohio, including the region’s biggest workforce challenges and their innovative programs designed to address them. Her favorite restaurant in Toledo is Kengo Sushi & Yakitori. Follow Sara on LinkedIn to stay up to date on workforce development in the Northwest Ohio region.

This week our guest is Melissa Dittmer, the Head of Place at Michigan Central, a 30-acre tech and cultural hub where leaders, thinkers, communities, and creators come together to accelerate bold ideas and technologies that shape our collective future. In this episode, Melissa shares how her work at Michigan Central goes beyond architecture and design, focusing on creating inclusive, authentic spaces that honor Detroit’s past while shaping its future. She also reflects on the lessons she’s learned from two decades of transforming Detroit’s built environment and offers insight into how postindustrial cities can collaborate to reimagine their future. Her restaurant of choice in Detroit is Coriander Kitchen and Farm for its location in Detroit’s canal district. Follow Melissa on LinkedIn to keep up to date on Michigan Central’s innovative work.

On this week’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Michael Baston, President of Cuyahoga County Community College. In this episode, Dr. Baston shares how Tri-C continues to shape Northeast Ohio’s workforce, particularly in manufacturing. He highlights the importance of soft skills and lifelong learning. He also shares more about valuable partnerships they have with local manufacturers to cultivate real-world learning opportunities. Dr. Baston shouts out Cleveland Chop as his favorite local restaurant. Follow Dr. Baston on LinkedIn to keep up to date on Tri-C’s manufacturing workforce initiatives.

Welcome back to the Rundown, featuring our new host, Kevin Morron! Our guest for this week is Adam Artman, President & Executive Director of Manufacturing Works, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening manufacturing in Northeast Ohio. In this episode, Adam reflects on the organization’s decades-long role in connecting and educating manufacturers, and how they’re tackling today’s new challenges, such as technology adoption and building strong talent pipelines. He also shares what they are doing to reach their vision for the future—making manufacturing an industry of choice. Adam’s restaurant picks are crowd pleasing family favorites—Chicago Deli and Yours Truly. Follow Adam on LinkedIn to stay updated on Northeast Ohio workforce and manufacturing initiatives.

This week our guest is Todd McCracken, President and CEO of the National Small Business Association (NSBA). NSBA is the nation’s first small business advocacy organization and is proud to be staunchly nonpartisan.  In this episode, Todd discusses his 37-year career with NSBA and how their advocacy work has evolved. He shares his insights into the Corporate Transparency Act, workforce retention, healthcare, and other key issues facing small business owners today.  Todd’s top DC area food picks include SHŌTŌ, Rumi’s Kitchen, and Cantlers.  Learn more about NSBA and its resources here or connect with Todd on LinkedIn.

On this week’s episode, we’re wrapping up the Rundown for 2024! Inspired by Spotify Wrapped, here are some top highlights from this year’s episodes: Most Popular Episode - Episode 81 featuring Frank “Sully” Sullivan of DayGlo Color Corp Best Local Spotlight - Episode 78 featuring Rosemary Mudry of the Cleveland Public Market Corporation   Most Personable Episode - Episode 69 featuring Joe Cimperman of Global Cleveland Most Thought-Provoking Episode - Episode 77 featuring Terrence Southern of Robotopia Most Inspiring Episode - Episode 82 featuring Jeffrey Stern of The O.H.I.O. Fund A sincere thank you to all of our guests who shared their time and stories with us this year. Check out all of 2024’s episodes and more here. Is there a guest that you’d like to hear on the Rundown? Submit a request here. Learn more about the Rundown and sign up for email notifications here.

Our guest this week is Caleb Townsend, Co-Founder of Factur, an agency that provides marketing and sales services to B2B manufacturers and industrial distributors.  In this episode, Caleb delves into the common challenges industrial companies face with their sales and marketing efforts. He shares Factur's industry-specific approach to lead generation, content strategy, and business development and debunks misconceptions about outsourcing.  Hailing from Carmel, Indiana, Caleb’s restaurant pick is Juniper on Main for Southern Coastal cuisine.  Follow Caleb on LinkedIn to learn more about Factor’s unique solutions for the industrial sector.

This week our guest is Dana McCallum, the Vice President of North American Sales and Partnerships at Xact Metal. Dana’s career has always been within the manufacturing industry but she shares how she transitioned from marketing to sales and tells about her current sales role with Xact Metal.  She offers insight into the rapid evolution of 3D printing and the advancements it’s making for manufacturers. She also shares her advice for supporting and mentoring underrepresented groups in manufacturing and her work with Women in 3D Printing.  Her Cleveland restaurant shout-out goes to Alea in Ohio City for a vibrant Mediterranean fusion menu and top-notch drinks.  Connect with Dana on LinkedIn for updates on industry trends!

Our guest this week is Joe Manofsky, Co-Founder of One Step Ahead Ohio! In this episode, he shares the inspiration behind One Step Ahead Ohio, the nonprofit he helped to launch in 2021. He offers insight into the varied ways they support the Northeast Ohio community and how OSAO sets itself apart from traditional nonprofits.  Joe joins during Manufacturing Month, so he also elaborates on one of their core initiatives, the Skilled Labor Foundation, which advocates for the benefits of a career in the skilled labor industry for Northeast Ohio youth.  Joe cites Whistle as his favorite spot for pizza in the city.  Connect with Joe Manofsky on LinkedIn.