Dreamers, Drivers, Doers – Details, episodes & analysis

In this special episode, we celebrate one of Greater Akron’s most impactful leaders, Dr. Cliff Deveny, Emeritus CEO and Strategic Advisor at Summa Health and the 2026 recipient of the H. Peter Burg Economic Development Leadership Award for his visionary leadership and lasting impact on the region. Under his leadership, Summa Health completed more than $400 million in regional development projects, strengthened strategic partnerships, and embraced innovation while remaining people-focused—positioning the health system for future growth through the HatCo transition and the creation of the Trailhead Community Health Foundation. Tune in as he shares his journey to leadership and his perspective on aligning healthcare with community prosperity. 

When an issue hits, how you respond can determine whether it fades or becomes a full-blown crisis. In this episode, Bruce Hennes, Chief Executive Officer of Hennes Communications, recognized by Chambers and Partners as one of the nation’s top crisis PR firms, shares best practices for business owners and leaders navigating today’s fast-moving media landscape. From managing brand reputation to understanding the intersection of legal strategy and crisis communications, Bruce explains how leaders can move quickly, control the narrative, and become effective vindicators for their organizations. For more tips, subscribe to the newsletter at crisiscommunications.com. 

Akron native and former military helicopter pilot Ned Parks, now the owner of Aegis 360Consulting, joins Dreamers, Drivers, Doers to discuss how aviation has shaped his career andOhio’s broader economic momentum. He touches on the state’s unusually high number of airports, the challenge of keeping them ready year-round, and Ohio’s reputation as the nation’s largest flyover state. Ned also spotlights the annual AOPA Props and Pistons showcase as a major draw that brings visitors into the region, highlights Greater Akron’s assets, and encourages people to return, explore, and invest in the community.

Thinking through a problem and coming up with a solution is second nature to Amanda Leffler, ManagingPartner of Shumaker's recently-established Akron office. Amanda sits down with Steve Millard to talk abouther role as a connector within the legal realm, how Shumaker offers a variety of services for businesses of all sizes, and their unwavering commitment to ensure the best outcome for their clients. Tune in to learn more about Amanda’s professional journey and her noteworthy contributions outside of law in the GreaterAkron community.

Becoming a leader was always in the cards for Chrissy Myers, but after a run of undesirable jobs as ayoung adult while working for her dad, she was adamant about not returning to work for the familybusiness. You can probably guess where this story goes, but what you don’t know is the how: HOW shedoubled her business in size and opened a fractional HR entity; and HOWher work serves smallbusinesses; and HOW she is making an impact on the Greater Akron business community and beyond. Inthis episode, the CEO of AUI/Clarity HR also dives into workplace trends, culture, and well-being, and herrole outside the office asco-captain of “Team Awesomesauce.” Stick around to hear Chrissy’s “AkronJams” and details on the upcoming launch of her first book.

Celeste Brown is a go-getter–when she sees a problem, she comes up with a solution from the lenseofan entrepreneur. On this episode, Celeste shares the “aha moment” behind the launch of her businessDefining Enterprises, LLC., how one email led to the placement of two automated retail machines in theAkron-Canton Airport, and the future of retail with convenient and contactless shopping methods.

Did you know that every $1 invested in public transportation generates $5 in economic returns? On thisweek’s episode, Steve Millard chats with METRO RTA CEO Dawn Distler and ValerieShea, Director ofPlanning and Strategic Development, about the role public transit plays to drive and support economicdevelopment, how the transit agency’s redesigned bus network that launched in June 2023 increasedaccess to jobs in Summit County by 53%through various mobility options, and the future of transit inSummit County (and beyond!). Both guests share their “Akron Jams” and how you can access them from a bus route! 

United Way's evolution from a traditional fundraising organization to a community impact-driven entity reflects the changing landscape in the nonprofit sector, yet there is still a lack of awareness around the dynamic work that United Way of Summit & Medina leads and supports. President and CEO Jim Mullendives into how United Way collaborates with corporate, philanthropic, and civic leaders to drive change while staying true to its primary focus of supporting the foundational needs that enable individuals to not just survive, but thrive. Jim also has three "Akron Jams" you don't want to miss!

While venture capital is historically concentrated in the West Coast, experts have witnessed a gradual shift in investments in the Midwest and Ohio specifically. Plus, with startup support from Bounce Innovation Huband Akron's position as Rubber Capital of the World, Greater Akron and Northeast Ohio has potential to be a premier startup hub in the Midwest. Join Steve Millard and Bill Manby, Founding and Managing Partner ofInterstate Fusion Ventures, on a journey through the dynamic world of venture capital and what needs tohappen in the next 5-7 years for venture capital to grow and thrive in the region.

Exposing students to experiences beyond the classroom in their early years is crucial–not only for personal development but also to ensure continuous growth of the local talent pool. On this episode, Marcie Ebright, Director of the College & Career Academies of Akron Public Schools, and Jobs for Ohio Graduates Executive Director, Chris Canova, talks about this transformative education model that impacts students ofall ages, from PreK to 12th grade, and how their partnership with helps position students for success with career exploration and job exposure opportunities.