What does it take to keep global business moving... and why does it matter locally? Damon Piatek,President and CEO of Piatek Customs & Logistics, joins us to share how he built a company thathelps businesses of all sizes navigate the complexities of customs, compliance, and internationaltrade. From entrepreneurial lessons to practical insights, Damon sheds light on how logistics andleadership intersect to power growth in the region.
-------- Â
28:07
--------
28:07
Tax Policy and Political Shifts with Senator Jerry C. Cirino
Unpack the fiscal and political changes shaping our state in this conversation with State SenatorJerry Cirino, who serves as Chair of the Senate Finance Committee. Host Steve Millard,alongsideACAA Vice President John Rizzo, dive into the introduction of a 2.75% flat tax—the lowest amongneighboring states—and what it means for economic growth and talent retention; and property taxreform, which impacts the $22 billion revenue stream that funds schools, safety services, andmore. The trio also discuss the influence of the 2026 election cycle and redistricting on the state’spolitical landscape.
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.
-------- Â
35:49
--------
35:49
Building a Circular Economy: John Warner’s Vision for the Polymer Industry
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
-------- Â
40:50
--------
40:50
How Public Health Funding Intersects with Civic Well - Being: A Look at the ADM Board Levy
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.
Want to discover the personalities, leaders, and voices who are making things happen and making a difference in our region? Welcome to Dreamers, Drivers, and Doers, where Greater Akron Chamber CEO and President Steve Millard engages in conversations with business owners, influencers, and government officials to discover what makes a group of people come together, the possibilities on a local and regional level, and the potential of an area that pulls together. Fascinating journeys, strong opinions, unique perspectives, and a behind-the-scenes look at some of the business and legislative initiatives that are the heartbeat of our community.
USA