Built in Ohio

Aplos Data is coming out of stealth with a clear focus: helping organizations move beyond disconnected data, stalled use cases, and AI pilots that never reach production.In this episode, Aplos Data co-founders Ian Ferré, CEO, and Sean Dooley, Executive Chairman, join the podcast to discuss how they are helping businesses operationalize AI through data, workflow automation, and Palantir-powered systems.Aplos works with organizations to turn complex data environments into coherent operating systems that drive real decisions, execution, and outcomes. The company focuses on designing and delivering operational systems, taking high-potential use cases from concept to production, and aligning data, AI, and workflows around measurable business value.Ian and Sean also share the story behind launching Aplos, why they believe companies need long-term partners rather than one-off implementations, and how their experience building and scaling businesses shapes the way they serve clients.The conversation explores AI, data, digital twins, predictive insights, operational efficiency, and what it takes for organizations to move from experimentation to real-world impact.Connect with Ian on LinkedIn.Connect with Sean on LinkedIn.Learn more about Aplos Data.

Accent has grown into a trusted cloud communications provider serving organizations ranging from small businesses to large enterprises.In this episode, Chris Cameron, CEO of Accent, joins the podcast to share his entrepreneurial journey — from working at Accent to buying the company and becoming its president and CEO.Chris discusses how Accent helps businesses modernize communication through cloud phone systems, video meetings, team messaging, unified communications, and cloud contact center solutions. He also shares what it means to build a company that is “big enough to deliver and small enough to care,” and how Accent serves customers across industries with practical, reliable communication tools.The conversation explores entrepreneurship, business ownership, customer service, and the evolving role of cloud communications in how organizations work today.Connect with Chris on LinkedIn.Learn more about Accent.

Ohio’s startup ecosystem has grown from early investments and foundational programs into a thriving network of entrepreneurs, investors, operators, and support organizations.In this episode, Michelle Murcia, founder and CEO of Book+Street, joins the podcast to discuss the evolution of the Columbus and Ohio startup ecosystem, her decades of work supporting entrepreneurs, and why she launched Book+Street in 2018.Michelle shares lessons from her time at Battelle, Fletcher Spaght Ventures, TechColumbus, and Book+Street, where her team supports startups from ideation through Series B and beyond. The conversation also explores Ohio’s growth as a place for startups and how the region can continue building momentum while staying true to its Midwest culture and values.Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn.Learn more about Book+Street.

Modern software promises speed, flexibility, and growth — but too often, businesses find themselves boxed in by legacy systems, rigid “out-of-the-box” features, and digital projects that never fully deliver.In this episode, Brendan Gualdoni, Chief Operating Officer of Aries Solutions, joins the podcast to discuss how companies can modernize complex digital ecosystems through composable commerce, agentic automation, and a more strategic approach to software transformation.Brendan shares why technology modernization is not just a technical challenge, but a leadership and culture challenge. He explains how companies can move beyond transactional vendor relationships, evaluate digital partners based on trust and accountability, and build hybrid teams that combine internal knowledge with outside expertise.The conversation also explores Aries Solutions’ commitment to helping clients get live and into production — and why execution, alignment, and end-to-end accountability are what separate successful digital transformations from stalled projects.Connect with Brendan on LinkedIn.Learn more about Aries Solutions.

Miami University is helping prepare the next generation of technology talent through first-of-its-kind programs in quantum computing and artificial intelligence.In this episode, Beena Sukumaran, Professor and the Dinesh and ILA Paliwal Dean of the College of Engineering and Computing at Miami University, joins the podcast to discuss how Miami is building new pathways for students in some of the most important emerging technology fields.Miami’s College of Engineering and Computing is home to the first Bachelor of Science in Quantum Computing in Ohio and the first in the nation focused on software applications. Developed in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, the program gives students hands-on experience with real quantum systems, including opportunities to work with IBM’s System One Quantum computer both physically at Cleveland Clinic and virtually from Miami’s Oxford campus.The conversation also explores Miami’s efforts to expand the quantum talent pipeline through K–12 outreach, high school programs, experiential learning, internships, research, and industry partnerships.Dean Sukumaran also shares what makes Miami’s new AI program distinct, including its focus on building AI systems, not just using AI tools, and preparing students to apply AI responsibly across industries.Connect with Dean Sukumaran on LinkedIn.Learn more about Miami University's College of Engineering and Computing.

The AI era is not just about making old systems faster. It is a shift from operating on the ground to operating in the air — requiring new tools, new controls, and a new way for organizations to coordinate work.In this episode, Quentin Fisher, CEO and founder of Aidan Systems, shares how manufacturing and healthcare organizations can move into the AI era with practical, trusted, and operationally focused solutions.Quentin discusses Aidan Systems’ AI Control Tower, a platform designed to help organizations turn enterprise data into trusted insight and action without ripping out existing systems. He also explains why not every business process needs AI, why choosing the right starting point matters, and how organizations can maintain and improve their AI capabilities over time.The conversation also explores Aidan’s broader mission: helping reindustrialize the Midwest with AI and supporting healthcare providers as they work to serve more people in a rapidly changing world.Connect with Quentin on LinkedIn.Learn more about Aidan Systems.

On this episode of Built in Ohio we’re joined by Anthony Gillespie, Director of Strategic and Technology-Based Partnerships and the Technology Transfer Office at Parallax Advanced Research. Anthony brings more than 30 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, government, university tech transfer, and consulting—all focused on advancing innovation and economic impact.At Parallax, Anthony helps connect groundbreaking research with real-world application. One of the programs he leads is the Precision Urban Agriculture Initiative, a NIST-funded effort that’s transforming underused urban spaces in Cuyahoga County into productive farming hubs powered by aerospace technology. This work is directly tackling food security, sustainability, and workforce development—while serving as a model for how technology transfer can solve real community challenges.In our conversation, we explored Anthony’s career journey, the critical role of tech transfer in Ohio’s innovation ecosystem, and how initiatives like Precision Urban Agriculture are reimagining what’s possible for the state’s future.Connect with Anthony on LinkedInLearn more about Parallax Advanced Research: www.parallaxresearch.orgLearn more about the Ohio Aerospace Institute: www.oai.org

On this episode of Built in Ohio we’re joined by Novick, the Interim CEO of JumpStart Inc. Lorne has spent his career at the intersection of law, startups, sports, and venture—always with a focus on driving innovation and impact. At JumpStart, he’s held senior leadership roles overseeing services, deal flow, and strategy, helping to build one of Ohio’s most influential entrepreneurial organizations. Now as Interim CEO, he’s steering JumpStart through a pivotal moment, working to accelerate the launch and growth of high-potential companies while expanding the state’s innovation ecosystem.One of the biggest ways JumpStart does this is through VC Fest, the annual gathering coming back to Cleveland on September 16th and 17th that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders from across Ohio and beyond. This year’s event introduces new elements, fresh conversations, and opportunities for collaboration that could shape the next wave of Ohio startups.In this episode, we dig dug what makes VC Fest unique, the impact it’s already had, and where Lorne sees Ohio’s innovation ecosystem heading.Connect with Lorne on LinkedIn.Learn more about JumpStart at www.jumpstartinc.orgLearn more about Ohio VC Fest at www.ohiovcfest.com

On this episode of Built in Ohio we’re joined by Alexandra Scheiman, Vice President of People at Path Robotics.Alexandra brings over 15 years of experience in scaling teams, leading people strategy, and driving culture in high-growth environments—from Spotify and Facebook in New York to one of Ohio’s most innovative AI companies.At Path Robotics, Alexandra has built the people function from the ground up, helping grow a team that's powering the next wave of manufacturing. Founded by brothers Andy and Alex Lonsberry, Path Robotics is tackling one of the industry’s biggest challenges: doing more with less. With reshoring, rising demand, and a shrinking talent pool, manufacturers are under pressure—and Path’s AI-powered welding robots are designed to help. Their technology absorbs repetitive, high-volume work and puts humans in safer, more impactful roles.In this episode, we talk about building values-driven teams, attracting top tech talent to Ohio, and how Alexandra’s experience at global tech companies is shaping the future of workforce strategy right here in the Midwest.Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrascheiman/Learn more about Path Robotics: www.path-robotics.com

In this episode of Built in Ohio our guest is Anthony Joy, Chief Information Officer of Cleveland Metroparks.Most people hear “parks” and think of hiking trails and picnic tables. But Anthony, who's the first-ever CIO for Cleveland Metroparks, sees something much more complex: a 25,000-acre network spanning six counties, 18 park reservations, a nationally acclaimed zoo, nine golf courses, marinas, restaurants, retail operations, and a fully commissioned law enforcement agency.Anthony’s job? Make sure all of it runs securely, efficiently, and increasingly smartly.With a background that started in law enforcement and evolved into higher education IT leadership roles, Joy brings a rare mix of public-sector insight, academic discipline, and creative energy to one of Ohio’s most innovative civic organizations.This is an incredible conversation where we talk technologies like cybersecurity, AI, drones, and more.And the next time you go to a Zoo, you're probably going to think about all you see a bit differently.Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-joy-6682581/Learn more about the Cleveland Metroparks at: www.clevelandmetroparks.com/

In this epsiode of Built in Ohio we welcome Shane Bigelow, CEO of Cleveland-headquartered CHAMP Titles.Modernizing government systems is a challenge few startups dare to tackle. But Shane and the CHAMP team, is proving it can be done, and done from Ohio.Shane, whose background spans finance, capital markets, and emerging technologies, launched CHAMP to digitize one of the most outdated government processes: vehicle titling. The company helps state governments replace paper-based systems with fully digital solutions that make buying, selling, and managing vehicle titles faster, more secure, and far less bureaucratic.Bigelow’s inspiration for CHAMP came from recognizing just how inefficient and antiquated title processing was, and how it impacted millions of consumers, dealerships, lenders, and government agencies. This was an incredible conversation and Shane is leading one of Ohio's most exciting tech companies.Connect with Shane on LinkedIn at: www.linkedin.com/in/shanemcrannbigelow/Learn more about CHAMP's work at: www.champtitles.com

In this episode of Built in Ohio, our guest is Becca Wenning—the founder and CEO of Dressit, a smart technology platform that uses artificial intelligence to power designer websites and guide brides—confidently and effortlessly—to the right dress and the right boutique. Think of it as a digital matchmaker for the most important outfit a person may ever wear.In 2010, Becca stepped into bridal retail just as Pinterest and Instagram were being born. She didn’t know it then, but the digital revolution was about to turn the wedding industry—and her career—inside out.Becca ran her own boutique for over a decade, building a successful business that guided thousands of brides to their perfect dress. But behind the romance and ribbons, she saw chaos: brides overwhelmed by options, boutiques buried under manual processes, and designer brands unable to adapt to modern e-commerce expectations. By the time she sold her boutique in 2020, she had cataloged every inefficiency the industry refused to fix.Now, she’s fixing them. And building it from Coldwater, Ohio.Connect with Becca on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/becca-wenning/Check out Dressit at: www.dressit.ai

In this episode of the Built in Ohio podcast, we sit down with Robert Marks, a serial entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Projector. Robert is no stranger to building big ideas—he founded Fidelity Voice and Data with just $600 and grew it into a $30 million business, delivering internet and cloud services across the Midwest. After successfully exiting that company, he turned his focus to new ventures and giving back to the community.Now with Projector, Robert is reimagining how families can enjoy their home videos—making it as easy as streaming your favorite show. We talk about:How Robert grew Fidelity Voice and Data from a $600 startup to a $30 million businessThe inspiration behind Projector and how it’s making family videos as easy to stream as your favorite showsWhy Ohio is the perfect place to build — and fund — the next wave of tech companiesLessons from a founder on scaling, selling, and starting againConnect with Robert on LinkedIn Learn more about Projector at www.projectorstream.com

In this episode of Built in Ohio, we sit down with Tony Pietrocola, President of AgileBlue, a Cleveland-based cybersecurity company using AI to detect and respond to threats faster than ever before.Tony’s journey is anything but ordinary. With no formal background in cybersecurity, he co-founded AgileBlue to solve a real market need—and scaled it into one of Ohio’s fastest-growing tech startups. Today, AgileBlue’s platform monitors organizations 24/7 using autonomous technology to protect against evolving cyber threats.We talk about:• How Tony transitioned from serial entrepreneur to cybersecurity founder• Why AI is now essential to defending against modern threats• The unique challenges and advantages of building in Ohio• What it means to launch and grow a tech company during a global pandemicConnect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonypietrocola/Learn more about AgileBlue: https://agileblue.com/

In this episode of Built in Ohio, we sit down with Ratmir Timashev, a serial entrepreneur, innovator, and investor whose impact on cloud data protection and software innovation is felt worldwide. Ratmir is an entrepreneur, technologist, and community leader, best known for his innovations in cloud data protection. Since launching Aelita Software in his dorm at the Ohio State University, Ratmir has built some of the world’s most successful tech companies, including Veeam Software, the global leader in cloud data protection and management software. Today, he invests in startups worldwide and is the co-founder of Object First, a company delivering backup storage for mid-sized businesses using Veeam.Ratmir is the founding visionary behind the Center for Software Innovation at the Ohio State University, positioning Columbus as a global hub for AI and digital innovation. Through new cutting-edge education, career pathways, community programs, and the Techstars Columbus accelerator, the CSI team is empowering students and entrepreneurs to build the next great digital products. Together with his wife Angela and the Timashev Family Foundation, Ratmir's philanthropic impact in innovation, education, and the arts extends across Ohio and the globe. During the conversation, Chris Berry and Ratmir talk about the entrepreneurial journey, the importance of being the first-mover (and how you need to be at the right time, right place, with a brilliant product), and the tech opportunity he sees coming out of Ohio State.Follow Ratmir on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ratmirtimahsev/Learn more about his work from his website: https://www.ratmirtimashev.com/And discover the innovation happening at Ohio State's Center for Software Innovation: https://software.osu.edu/

In this episode we welcome two guests from Cincinnati-headquartered Procter & Gamble (P&G): Guy Persaud, President of the New Business Unit at Procter & Gamble and Board Chair at Cintrifuse and Chetan Parekh, Vice President & General Manager of Zevo.Built in Ohio's host, Chris Berry, speaks with Guy and Chetan on innovation in large corporations, what it's like building and launching new brands, and the importance of strong tech ecosystems.P&G is known for creating some of the world's most iconic brands. At P&G Ventures, they create new brands in new spaces to help consumers live life better.--Guy Persaud is President of the New Business Unit at Procter & Gamble and Board Chair at Cintrifuse.Persaud has nearly three decades of experience across four continents leading multi-billion-dollar businesses and global organizations across a wide range of cultural contexts. In his current role as president of the new business unit at Procter & Gamble, Persaud is responsible for identifying and operating high-growth and value-creation businesses outside the company's traditional business units. Previous roles at the company include: senior vice president, fabric and home care and head of brand, Latin America; senior vice president, fabric and home care, greater China; global franchise leader; and other roles in the U.S. and Europe. A native of Canada, Guy joined Procter & Gamble after completing his Master of Business Administration at McGill University.--Chetan Parekh is Vice President & General Manager of Zevo. Chetan leads the Pest Prevention brand Zevo, which is P&G’s first new category entry in over 20 years. A native of India, Chetan joined P&G after completing his MBA at The Yale School of Management. Over his 17-year career at P&G, Chetan has had a unique journey spanning brand-building, P/L ownership, and retailer-facing experiences spanning multiple business units with a track record of delivering breakthrough results: Skincare (Olay), Healthcare (Vicks, Prilosec), Oral Care (Crest/ Oral-B), and managing P&G’s healthcare, oral care, and feminine care business on the Walmart team. These experiences have led to the current pioneering and entrepreneurial opportunity to build Zevo from the ground up, from incubation to national scaling.--Learn more about Zevo at: https://zevoinsect.com/Learn more about P&G's new venture work at: https://pgventuresstudio.com/Learn more about Cintrifuse: https://cintrifuse.com/Connect with Guy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guypersaud/Connect with Chetan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chetan-parekh/###

Marvin Logan is the Executive Director of Youngstown-based OH WOW! Children's Center for Science & Technology.In this episode, we spoke to Marvin about building a STEM education pipeline connecting education, government, nonprofits, and the tech industry.OH WOW!® The Roger & Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science & Technology opened in downtown Youngstown, Ohio on May 12, 2011 to rave reviews and overwhelming community support. Today, OH WOW!®’s brand is well-respected, and the organization is an anchor and economic development engine in downtown Youngstown’s central business district, serving over 645,262 since their opening.At OH WOW!, Marvin directs one of the region's preeminent STEM education providers, dedicated to delivering dynamic hands-on experiences by employing project and challenge-based learning to yield impactful educational results for K-12 youth. His leadership work oversees strategic and operational functions encompassing the organization’s personnel, programs, expansion efforts, goals, and mission.To learn more about OH WOW!, please visit: https://ohwowkids.org/Connect with Marvin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvinloganjr/

Max Brickman is the Managing Director of Heartland Ventures, a venture capital firm that connects high-growth startups with new customers in the Midwest. We first welcomed Max back as a guest in April 2021. In his second appearance on the show we check in to see how the pandemic crated opportunities for venture capital in the midwest and why connecting high-growth industrial startups on the coast with new customers in the Midwest is more vital that ever.Max is a forward-thinking venture capitalist with a passion for expanding technological innovation into smaller, underrepresented Heartland communities. In line with this passion and commitment, Max founded Heartland Ventures in 2016 to enhance Silicon Valley startups’ access to this market. He manages the fund’s relationships with other venture capital partners and oversees key investment decisions with the Heartland team. Heartland has over $100 million under management and has invested in 14 high-performing portfolio companies. Max received a B.S. in Finance and Entrepreneurship from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. He was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2022, an Executive of the Year by Columbus Business First, and a Future 50 Member by Columbus CEO.Learn more about Heartland Ventures: www.heartlandvc.comConnect with Max on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxbrickman/

In this episode, we welcome Katie Comer, Head of Community Development for North America at Meta. Meta, formerly known as the Facebook Company, is the parent company of the apps you know and love−Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Workplace, Messenger, and Quest. During our conversation with Katie, we discuss Meta's passion for Ohio, why their company is committed to helping build Ohio's tech workforce, and the tremendous impact Data Centers have on communities across the world.In Katie's role, she manages the Community Development team within 17 Meta global data center locations in North America. Her team is responsible for community relations, government affairs, and corporate social responsibility initiatives within these data center communities. Through Meta platforms and products, she and her team give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. Data Centers, and the tens of thousands of servers installed in them, are the foundation upon how the company rapidly scales their infrastructure to operate Meta’s innovative and growing technology.Prior to joining Meta, Katie served as the Director of Development and Interim Chief Development Officer for the American Red Cross. Before joining the nonprofit sector, she worked for News Corporation in account management and sales. Katie worked with companies such as Coca-Cola, Disney Sports, P&G, and Rubbermaid to implement in store, print, and digital marketing sales.Katie is a graduate of the University of Georgia and has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management from Georgia State University. Katie is a member of Leadership Atlanta, Georgia 4-H Advisory Board, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Huntsville Chamber of Commerce Board, and the Walton County Chamber of Commerce Board. She resides in Atlanta with her husband.For more information on Meta and their impact on Ohio, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/NewAlbanyDataCenter/

Angelo Mazzocco is Vice President of Advisory Services at AVAAP. AVAAP is an industry-focused technology management and advisory services partner known for delivering strategic technology solutions and exceptional customer experiences. In this episode, we spoke with Angelo about the amazing community behind Central Ohio's tech growth, some of the keys that have led to innovation success in Columbus, and why tech collaboration is vital during times of challenge. Prior to AVAAP, Angelo was President of 3SG Plus, the Chief Information Officer of Central Ohio Primary Care, President of Pillar Technology Group, Chief Information Officer of Progressive Medical, the vice president and chief information officer of The Dispatch Printing Company and Affiliates, held significant roles with Andersen Consulting (now called Accenture), NCGroup/CompuCom, Nationwide Insurance, and NCR.He has served as an adjunct faculty member of the Ohio State University and Otterbein University.Angelo served on the Boards of Gladden Community Settlement House, American Heart Association, Quick Solutions, Navigator Management Partners, GroundWork group, Pillar, and Technology Advisory Board of OCLC. Angelo and his teams have been the recipient of awards including Technology Innovation Team and Service Provider of the Year, Executive of the Year, Large Technology Team of the Year, Technology Service Provider of the Year, ComSpark Tech Power Award, Information Week 500 Technology Innovation, ComputerWorld 100 Best Places to Work in IT, CIO100 finalist, GroundWork Group Volunteer of the Year, and Ohio Cancer Research Associates Honoree.To learn more about AVAAP, please visit: https://avaap.com/Connect with Angelo on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelomazzocco/

Steve Cross is the Founder and Creative Director of iSynergy, an integrated digital marketing agency with a laser focus on maximizing ROI for clients. In this conversation we spoke with Steve about the inspiration to leave a "safe" job and create his own business, why he's so focused on team culture, and his passion for West Coast Innovation with a Rust Belt work ethic.iSynergy, based in Canfield, is an industry leader in programmatic advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), social advertising, search engine marketing (PPC), inbound marketing and growth strategy development. They focus on building scalable, efficient campaigns that deliver results for clients globally.Steve is a proud graduate of Baldwin Wallace University and is on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity of Mahoning Valley.For more information on iSynergy, please visit: https://isynergy.io/Connect with Steve on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-cross-digital-marketing/

Right now, Ohio is in the midst of a generational opportunity with the growth and development of our tech economy. For this special Built in Ohio Podcast, we welcomed Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted. This episode was built and released for our annual #OhioTechDay celebration. Held annually on the final Friday in September, #OhioTechDay celebrates and promotes tech in Ohio and inspires students to consider innovation careers.In this episode, we talk with Lt. Governor Husted on his work with the State of Ohio, how exciting technologies like AI will impact Ohio, and how we can build a strong innovation workforce.From big companies choosing Ohio like Intel, Meta, and Google, to growing startups, it seems like every week there's exciting news happening in the Buckeye State.For more information on Lt. Governor Husted, please visit https://governor.ohio.gov/administration/lt-governorFor more information on #OhioTechDay, please visit https://www.ohiotechday.org/

Kristy Campbell is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of Rev1 Ventures. In this episode, we talk with Kirsty about the Columbus tech scene, how Rev1 Ventures  helps entrepreneurs build great companies, and inclusion in the startup ecosystem.Kristy leads operations for Columbus-based Rev1 Ventures,  providing strategic services and capital to help startups scale and corporates innovate. She supports cross-team delivery of client services – including talent programs, corporate partnerships, infrastructure (via Rev1 Labs’ innovation center), and access to investment capital.Prior to joining Rev1, Kristy spent her career working within multiple high-growth, venture-backed startups, helping to build their brands, organize effective teams, grow revenue and scale. She held leadership positions at Manta Media – where she helped to grow the company into one of the largest, most trafficked websites in the U.S. – and Saama Technologies, a global leader in Big Data and analytics.Kristy serves on the advisory board for SureImpact, a cloud-based software platform that allows mission-driven organizations to manage, measure and communicate their unique social impact, and for non-profits entrepreneur support organization Cultivate SMB. She holds a BS in Journalism from Ohio University and an MBA from Ashland University. Kristy is a frequent speaker on startup, marketing and inclusion best practices and has been featured in Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Axios, Venture Beat, Yahoo, and other top entrepreneur media outlets.To learn more about Rev1 Ventures, please visit: https://www.rev1ventures.com/To learn more about Kristy's work and connect with her, please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campbellkristy/

Dennis Andersh is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Parallax Advanced Research Corporation. In this episode we talk with Dennis about solving critical challenges for the Nation's security and prosperity, Parallax's unique model, and their important work linking academia, industry and government research and development programs. Parallax Advanced Research is a Dayton-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit research institute. They solve critical challenges for the Nation's security and prosperity and do this by focusing on creating impact by accelerating investments in the U.S. science and technology enterprise. Their research is aimed at solving critical state- and federal-level challenges at the intersection of government, industry, and academia using the Triple Helix Model of Innovation. This model combines resources, competencies, and perspectives from different sectors (academia, industry, and the government) to drive innovation and new creative solutions; anchors and cultivates innovation ecosystems within a region; engages in boundary-spanning activities and encourages collaboration within and between these three sectors.  Dennis joined Parallax’s predecessor, the Wright State Research Institute in December 2013 as the Chief Operating Officer and was named Chief Executive Officer of the Wright State Applied Research Corporation within six months of joining the organization, and in 2015 he added the title Executive Director, Wright State Research Institute. In October 2020,  transitioned to Parallax Advanced Research, an independent non-profit research organization focused on linking academia, industry and the government research and development programs. Dennis is the co-lead with Ohio State for the Ohio Federal Research Network that is being developed state-wide to focus academic research to better support Wright Patterson, NASA Glenn as well as other Federal and State Institutions state-wide.        With more than 20 years of documented leadership, management, and technical innovative successes, Dennis's expertise lies in basic research, laboratory research and development, system concept development, system and platform development, and the fielding of air, ground and space mission critical systems. He is highly respected for building collaborative partnerships of academia, industry, government, commercial, congressional, and local entities to create strategic growth across multiple new markets in the federal, state, and local government.   Before coming to Parallax, Dennis held several leadership positions at Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC). He led the Dayton region as Senior Vice President where he was responsible for SAIC’s business with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), Springfield Air National Guard, and the Dayton region. In this role, he increased revenue at the Dayton operation by 20 percent year-over-year and grew the employee base from 235 to 450. His other previous SAIC roles included reconnaissance and surveillance operation Senior Vice President in Arlington, Va., and Vice President and Associate Operations Manager in Champaign Illinois.  Dennis earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arizona and his Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology. He is also an accomplished researcher, winning multiple awards from the Air Force when he directed radar research programs for the Air Force Research Laboratory. In his spare time, Dennis has been a major supporter of STEM programs throughout the Dayton region. To learn more about Parallax, please visit: https://parallaxresearch.org/To learn more about Dennis, please connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-andersh-8913281/

Lindsay Watson is the co-founder and CEO of Augment Therapy. In this episode we talk about Lindsay's journal going from physical therapist to startup founder. With a career as a physical therapist specializing in pediatrics for nearly 20 years, Lindsay is now a  tech entrepreneur with a passion to drive change in the rehab industry by integrating innovative augmented reality technology into treatment. Taking her expertise and industry experience, she is now the co-founder and CEO of Augment Therapy Inc, a company which combines the best of augmented reality, Telehealth, and remote monitoring to improve the delivery of physical therapy. She has led her company to win many awards, participate in multiple tech accelerators, and receive recognition such as “Most Promising Startup” and “A Company to Watch,” by Inc. Magazine. In 2019, she was named one of Cleveland’s Notable Women of Technology. She is passionate about driving change in the healthcare and physical therapy industry by automating more precise data collection, making therapy more widely accessible, and better engaging for today’s tech savvy patients.Learn more about Augment Therapy here: https://augmenttherapy.com/Learn more about Lindsay and connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-watson-pt-mpt-68103a134/

Denise Bartick is the President and CEO of MAX Technical Training. In this episode, we talk with Denise about one of the largest issues facing tech companies today: tech talent.MAX, based in Mason, was created by Denise in 1998 and provides corporate and individual IT training. They recently celebrated their 25th anniversary in business.Denise and Chris dive into the evolution of tech talent needs by companies over the last 25 years, how smart businesses stay ahead of the ever changing landscape, and the resources available to help re-skill and up-skill Ohioans.To learn more about Denise and connect, please visit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-bartick-3845ab/For more information on MAX, please visit: https://maxtrain.com/

Ray Leach is CEO of Cleveland-based JumpStart. In this episode, we talk with Ray about the economic impact of startups and entrepreneurs, the growing work their team is doing, and creating equitable opportunities.JumpStart is a nonprofit venture development organization providing capital, services and connections to help entrepreneurs grow, researchers commercialize and corporations innovate. Their mission is to unlock the full potential of entrepreneurship to transform entire communities.Ray is the founding CEO of JumpStart and through his leadership the organization has gained a national best-in-class reputation for its innovative economic development models and its ability to leverage its experience and expertise across the U.S.Ray is considered a national thought and practice leader at the intersection of public, private, and philanthropic partnerships accelerating private-sector investment capital, job creation, and increasing inclusive economic outcomes in neighborhoods, cities, states, and regions.Ray was a Sloan Fellow and a graduate of the MIT Sloan School of Management and the University of Akron. He began his career at IBM and went on to co-found four startups. Ray was a founding member of the U.S. Commerce Department’s National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NACIE) and currently serves on the for-profit boards of Axuall, Smithers, and Signet LLC.To learn more about JumpStart, please visit: https://www.jumpstartinc.org/To learn more about JumpStart's work and economic impact, please visit: https://issuu.com/jumpstartinc./docs/2022_abridged_ei_report_final?fr=sNmMxYjUxNDA1NTQTo follow along with Ray's work and to connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raytleach/

Michael Caralis is Vice President of Business Markets at Verizon Business and in this episode of Built in Ohio we're talking delivering emerging technologies to customers, the keys to successful products, and how a background in small business has helped build a career in one of the largest companies in the world.As Vice President of Verizon Business Markets, Michael leads three critical business units for small and midsize business customers: network as a service (NaaS), Fios for Business and their channel program. His team of 1,200+ professionals partner with customers on their digital transformation journeys, providing innovative managed solutions for total communications, connectivity, collaboration and security. Their customer-centric organization delivers 5G technologies, fiber, ethernet, security solutions, and unified communications solutions such as BlueJeans conferencing, One Talk (voiceover IP solution) and Microsoft Teams. As businesses across all segments and industries anticipate a post-pandemic comeback, they are looking to adopt 5G and its potential to create new opportunities and build new efficiencies and scale their businesses. Verizon's team also provides Fios for Business, business digital voice, and easy to deploy and use set of security and collaboration products.Michael thrives on solving the most complex business problems in today’s data-rich and tech-heavy environment while leading groundbreaking transformations and aligning large-team operations to the strategic vision. He strive to be the most objective voice in a room and believe in authentic leadership. Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-caralis-62ba1a4/

Erandi De Silva, Ph.D. is Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Product Development at Forge Biologics. In this episode, we talk with Erandi about her journey to Ohio, building a BioTech outside of traditional life science hubs, increasing opportunities for girls and women in STEM, and more. Dr. De Silva is an experienced scientist and entrepreneur with over 10 years in discovery research, therapeutic development, and partnering across oncology, infectious diseases, and gene therapy.Prior to founding Forge, Dr. De Silva held leadership roles in both academic and industry settings. She's been named 2022 40 under 40 by Columbus Business First and 2022's Fiercest Women in Life Sciences by Fierce Pharma. Dr. De Silva earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Princeton University and her B.S., with honors, from Stanford University. Connect with Dr. De Silva on LinkedIn.For more information on Forge, please visit: www.forgebiologics.com

In this episode we welcome JP Nauseef, President and CEO of JobsOhio.JP is a former U.S. Air Force officer with 30 years of experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors with a longstanding passion for and focus on technology, innovation, and economic development. Prior to joining JobsOhio in March 2019, he was the chairman and co-founder of Krush Media, a full-service digital advertising, media, and data company. He has also served as president and CEO of the Dayton Development Coalition.At JobsOhio, the state’s private nonprofit economic development arm, JP works with energetic and smart professionals who have one goal in mind: drive job creation and new capital investment. His team is responsible for making sure Ohio remains a leader and economic engine for the region. As you hear about successes like Intel in Ohio, it's JP and his team leading the way.In our conversation we talk about Ohio's "generational opportunity", the 10 Ohio sectors that JobsOhio is focused on to build industrial diversity, what it takes to welcome new industries to Ohio, and a ton more.Connect with JP on LinkedIn and follow him on Twitter.Learn more about JobsOhio at www.jobsohio.com.

In this episode we have not one but two leaders joining us to share a special story. Our guests are Brad Davis, Meta's Director of Data Center Economic Development, and Jennifer Chrysler, the City of New Albany's Director of Community Development.The "Silicon Heartland" has been in the news all year but there was one spark that really started Ohio's tech momentum. That's Meta coming to Ohio.In 2017, Meta, then known as Facebook, broke group on their New Albany Data Center and it came online in 2020.The Data Center site is over $1 billion in investments by Meta, it's supported by 100% renewable energy, and it has created hundreds of jobs... which includes Meta's tech employees to construction workers.We're excited for this episode and to be joined by two of the projects team leaders: Brad from Meta and Jennifer from the City of New Albany. 

Ed McQuiston is Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Hyland. In this episode we talk winning culture, Cleveland's tech comeback, and seizing innovation opportunity. Ed first joined Hyland in 2001 and has had roles such as Director of Healthcare Solutions (where he founded Hyland’s first vertical practice), Vice President of Global Sales, Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing, and in 2017, Ed became Hyland’s Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer.Ed also serves on multiple non-profit boards in his passion areas of healthcare and education.About Hyland: Headquartered in Westlake, Hyland is a leading content services provider with a range of cloud-based technologies, solutions and services. They enable thousands of organizations to deliver better experiences to the people they serve. Hyland’s customers use Hyland solutions to navigate the complex digital ecosystem that is essential for any thriving, modern organization.Connect with Ed on LinkedIn.For more information on Hyland, please visit: www.hyland.com

In this episode of the Built in Ohio Podcast, we talk about the power and potential of artificial intelligence with Cal Al-Dhubaib of Pandata and Matt Schaefer of H2O.Cal is the Founder and CEO of Pandata, an award winning firm that empowers organizations to use Artificial Intelligence competitively. They are data science thought leaders and help organizations solve and simplify complex business challenges. And they pride themselves on delivering solutions that are approachable and ethical. Matt is a Sr. Strategic Account Executive with H2O.ai, the leading AI cloud company, on a mission to democratize AI for everyone. Customers use the H2O AI Hybrid Cloud platform to rapidly make, operate and innovate to solve complex business problems and accelerate the discovery of new ideas.To learn more about Pandata, please visit: https://pandata.co/Connect with Cal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhubaib/To learn more about H2O, please visit: https://h2o.ai/Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-schaefer-b785015/

Dr. Timothy J. Miller is CEO, President and Co-Founder of Forge Biologics, Inc., a VC-backed gene therapy development engine focused on accelerating access to potentially life-saving (AAV) gene therapies. In this podcast, we talk with Dr. Miller about building Ohio's biotech hub and Forge's work in manufacturing gene therapies for life.Dr. Miller was previously founding CEO & President of Abeona Therapeutics, a rare disease NASDAQ gene and cell therapy company. He's a proven biotech leader with experience in driving gene therapy pipeline development, regulatory strategy, investor relations, M&A activities, in-licensing, GMP manufacturing, clinical development and leading stakeholder and shareholder engagement. Dr. Miller has over 20+ years of business development, scientific research, product development and clinical operations expertise, with a focus on transitioning novel gene and cell therapies through pre-clinical and human clinical trials. He earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology from Case Western Reserve University and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Master of Science (M.S.) from John Carroll University. Dr. Miller is an avid patient-centric drug developer and entrepreneur.For more information on Forge Biologics, please visit: www.forgebiologics.comTo learn about career opportunities with Forge, please visit: www.forgebiologics.com/careers/And in 2021, Forge Biologics launched its Forge Ahead campaign to deliberately expand its impact by committing to raise awareness and support for people and families living with rare diseases. Learn more about this work (which includes pictures and video of the team climbing Mt. Adams!): https://insights.forgebiologics.com/forge-ahead-launches-with-support-for-be-the-match-and-hope-on-a-summit

Ryan Frederick is a Principal at AWH, a technology consulting firm that helps companies grow by leveraging technology. In this podcast, we talk with Ryan about how the Columbus tech community got built, what makes a strong tech ecosystem, and the hype and realities of new technologies.Ryan is a Founder and product person at heart. He's had the privilege of being part of starting and growing several software and service companies. Ryan has helped companies grow from inception, to viability, through to sustainability. During the evolution of these companies, Ryan has served on company boards and been instrumental in capitalization activities. He has also helped companies to expand to international markets. Combining a unique blend of business acumen and technical knowledge having originally been a developer who migrated to the business side, Ryan now helps companies build great software products and solve data challenges for competitive advantage as a Principal at the product and data consulting firm, AWH. He's an active angel investor, mentors and advises entrepreneurs and startups, as well as corporate innovation leaders. Ryan launched a non-profit workforce development program to train under-employed adults on digital skills called i.c.stars. He's authored a book on increasing the odds of success in creating products, being a Founder, and starting companies called The Founder’s Manual: A Guidebook for Becoming a Successful Entrepreneur. Ryan speaks frequently about the product, Founder, and startup journeys.Learn more about AWH: www.awh.netConnect with Ryan on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ryangfrederick

This week's Ohio Tech Report welcomes Nicole Paolozzi, Founder and CEO of OndeCare.Chris and Nicole are talking some of the biggest Ohio tech stories this week, including...1️⃣ Canton-based Society Brands raises $204 million2️⃣ Richfield company orthobrain closes $9 million Series A funding round3️⃣ The HOMAGE/OhioX "Silicon Heartland" shirts are out and looking great!The Ohio Tech Report is presented by Zendesk. Visit www.zendesk.com to learn more!Want to learn more about Nicole and OndeCare? Visit www.ondecare.com!

Dan Snyder is the co-founder and CEO of Lower, a multi-channel FinTech aimed at helping consumers build wealth through homeownership.  In this episode we talk with Dan about his journey starting Lower, raising the largest Series A round in Ohio history, and why doing it in his home state is special. Dan was named the #4 CEO in the country by Glassdoor in 2021 and his leadership style has led to multiple local and national Best Places to Work awards. Lower also recently joined Fast Company’s prestigious annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2022. The FinTech landed third in the Personal Finance category. This designation comes as the company continues their innovation to help consumers reach their homebuying goals. Lower is the naming rights partner for the Columbus Crew’s new stadium, Lower.com Field and they also hold the record for largest Series A investment in Ohio history. Dan loves helping his own people grow and uses a promote from within approach to the company.Learn more about Lower at www.lower.comFollow Dan on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/snyderdan

Liz Engel is a reporter at the Cincinnati Business Courier and leads editorial for its sister site, Cincy Inno, which covers tech and startup news in the region. In this episode, Liz gives us a run down of Cincinnati's tech ecosystem and insights to where the region is headed. She also shares about her day-to-day work as a journalist and how anyone can work with a reporter on a good story.Her past work has been featured at Forbes.com, WCPO and Cincy Magazine. She’s a Cincinnati native who made her return to the Queen City in 2014 following stints in North Carolina and Tennessee.Read her work at www.cincyinno.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/liz-engel-00430117/Follow her on Twitter: www.twitter.com/LizCinciBiz

Caesar Campbell serves as a North American Data Center Operations Manager at Meta.  In this episode we talk about the relationships that tech creates - both in person and virtually.Building, nurturing, and sustaining so that it brings joy, productivity and a fruitfulness to his every day.  He's a father of three and loves snowboarding, golf and mountain biking. And Caesar's hip-hop to his core. His professional career spans 17 years most of which has been in the infrastructure outsourcing space building teams globally and creating partnerships worldwide.  He absolutely loves the work he does at Meta but he loves the people he does it with even more.Connect with Caesar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caesarc/

Jamie Timm is the Chief Delivery Officer at WillowTree where she and the team help the world’s most admired brands on their path to digital leadership—from product to process.In this episode, we talk to Jamie about her path to tech, building a growing company in Columbus, and WillowTree's work with iconic brands.Jamie has over a decade of experience leading software delivery teams at digital agencies. She brings deep expertise in aligning people and business strategies to client engagements, as well as exemplary servant leadership to both the internal teams she manages and her external stakeholders.Jamie is particularly passionate about the opportunities for digital products to improve customer experiences in both highly-regulated mature and hyper-growth industries.Jamie holds a degree in Communications & Public Relations from Ohio Northern University and has previously held leadership roles in communications at the Columbus Chamber and Columbus Region Economic Development Group. Founded in 2008 as a pioneering mobile app development company, WillowTree has grown into a full-service digital product consultancy, helping their clients anywhere humans and technology intersect. Their teams provide end-to-end, full-stack development, strategy, design, and growth marketing services. Select clients include Domino’s, HBO, FOX, National Geographic, Synchrony Financial, PepsiCo and ABInBev.Visit www.willowtreeapps.com for more information.Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamietimm

In this episode, we talk with Nicole Ponstingle McCaffrey and Crystal M. Franklin about inspiring girls to consider STEM careers. The conversation is centered around the American Heart Associations' STEM Goes Red for Girls event.This episode was recorded in August as the original date of STEM Goes Red for Girls was the fall. Due to Covid-19, the event was rescheduled for March 11th.For more information on STEM Goes Red and the event, please visit: https://ahacleveland.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/20212022ClevelandSTEMGoesRed/tabid/1241618/Default.aspxAbout Nicole Ponstingle McCaffreyNicole is a 20+ year marketing and business development veteran with a career that spans local and global brands. As the COO of Pandata, Nicole crafts and stewards the brand and provides the strategy for the marketing blueprint. By extension, she is Pandata’s resident AI Translator, bringing approachability to AI. She also shapes and champions company culture, team growth, and talent pipeline.She fulfills her avocation in tech and diversity-focused workforce development by serving as an OhioX Workforce Development committee member and the 2021 chair for the American Heart Association’s STEM Goes Red for Girls event. About Crystal M. FranklinBorn and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, I have a first-hand. understanding for the students that attend schools in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, and issues surrounding access to equitable education. As aresult, I have developed a passion for working with students and families to break through barriers and factors that lead to marginalization. Prior to my position as a Director of CSforCLE, I taught high school science at an American School in Pinghu, China, and worked as a Teacher-Trainer for the Peace Corps Response, in New Amsterdam, Guyana. With a background in STEM, which includes a career in clinical and academic research, teaching, and program evaluation, it was only natural that I landed at Cleveland State and became a part of CSforCLE. My goal is to push our vision of Computer Science in every school, and that every student has an opportunity to engage in. 

Accomplished roboticist, entrepreneur and educator Dr. Ayanna Howard became dean of The Ohio State University College of Engineering in March 2021. In this episode we talk with Dr. Howard about her work at Ohio State building the next generation of builders, the relationship between industry and academia in innovation, and creating tech opportunities for all students.Previously she was chair of Georgia Tech’s School of Interactive Computing, as well as founder and director of the Human-Automation Systems Lab (HumAnS for short). Her career spans higher education, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the private sector. Dr. Howard is the founder of Zyrobotics, a Georgia Tech spin-off company that develops mobile therapy and educational products for children with special needs. Its products are based on Dr. Howard’s research. Among many accolades, Forbes named Dr. Howard to its America's Top 50 Women In Tech list. In May 2021, the Association for Computing Machinery named her the ACM Athena Lecturer in recognition of fundamental contributions to the development of accessible human-robotic systems and artificial intelligence, along with forging new paths to broaden participation in computing.Connect with Dean Howard on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ayanna-howard/Learn more about Ohio State's College of Engineering: www.engineering.osu.edu

Warner Moore is a strategic executive leader and manager with a background in technology and information security. In this episode we talk with Warner about Columbus's tech growth, future opportunities for tech in Ohio, and the cybersecurity landscape.  He has focused his career in working with entrepreneurial growth organizations where technology is their business and product. Within these organizations, Warner has an accomplished record of building successful cybersecurity programs and high performing teams who embrace DevOps culture and practices.As an international speaker, Warner has been invited to present to university students, technology professionals, and business leaders in a classroom setting as well as at conferences such as Startup Week, CloudDevelop, Path to Agility, InfoSec Summit, CodeMash, Security BSides, DevOpsDays, and Abstractions.Warner is passionate about culture, innovation, and community. His commitment to these values is demonstrated though his work leading organizations such as Ohio LinuxFest, LOPSA, and Toastmasters. The culmination of this work is the founding of Tech Community Coalition in 2016, a non-profit organization whose mission is to enable the greater tech community.After building security and privacy capabilities for numerous organizations across industries at companies such as CoverMyMeds and Bold Penguin, Warner founded the cybersecurity strategy firm Gamma Force. Through Gamma Force, Warner serves as a virtual CISO for clients that include Deep Lens and Smart Columbus and advises startups to scale them through concept and growth phases.Learn more about Gamma Force: www.gammaforce.ioConnect with Warner on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/warnermoore

Alison Sathe is the Cincinnati-based Founder of not one but two companies in the MedTech space.Alison founded Regulatory Mark and ClearMark to provide best in class regulatory consulting and electronic QMS solutions for medical devices to her domestic and international partners.In this episode, we talk with Alison about Ohio's MedTech and BioTech opportunity, the path that led her to building two companies, and more. As a biomedical engineer, Alison began her career working in medical device startups and has specialized in regulatory and quality affairs for over 15 years. Previously an executive team member overseeing Regulatory and Quality Affairs for companies with domestic and international registrations, Alison has managed teams and been regulatory lead for multiple product lines from concept and strategy through product release including early regulatory body interactions, regulatory submissions, and product clearance/approvals. Learn more about Regulatory Mark: www.regulatorymark.comLearn more about ClearMark: www.clearmarkqms.comConnect with Alison on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alisonsathe

Steve Lekas is the co-founder and CEO of Columbus-based Branch Insurance. In this episode we talk with Steve about the moment that led to going all-in with Branch, building an InsurTech in Columbus, and why he's excited to be doing it here in Ohio.Steve got his start in insurance at Allstate to put himself through school at Kent State. A decade later he went on to build the first-ever online home insurance business at Esurance. After 18 years in the industry, Steve became increasingly frustrated with how broken insurance had become with lengthy processes and rising costs. Chasing down his entrepreneurial calling, Steve set out to right the wrongs of the industry by creating insurance that’s quick, easy, affordable, and built to do good. In August 2019, Branch Insurance launched the quickest way to bundle home and auto insurance online and is now expanding nationally. To learn more about Steve and Branch Insurance, head to OurBranch.com.

Dana Allender is a life-long resident of Northeast Ohio and the Founder of SUN he works with emerging technology startups and small businesses to build “revenue roadmaps” to create scalable, sustainable growth.  In this episode we talk to Dana about his passion for building Cleveland's tech ecosystem, the role AI and AI companies can play in this growth, and revenue journeys for tech companies. Active in a number of civic and nonprofit organizations, he has served on the Alumni Board of Trustees at Walsh University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business and is a Past President of the Kent State University (Stark Campus) Alumni Association.  He’s a mentor in the startup community as well, working with JumpStart and previously with cohorts of the Bounce Innovation Hub and Fintech71.  Most importantly, he is a current member of OhioX, serving on the New Ventures and Technology Committee.  Connect with Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-allender-88aaba/Learn more about Dana's work at SUN: www.sungrowsyou.com

Melissa Cutcher is the Executive Director at Technology First, a trade association for IT professionals and technology companies in the Dayton region.  In this podcast, we talk with Melissa about leading during challenging times and get the lowdown on Dayton's tech ecosystem. Melissa has a Bachelor’s degree in organization management and Master’s degree in business administration with a focus on organization leadership.  Melissa is active in the Miami Valley and is a contributing member to many groups and organizations in the area.  Melissa is a learner and loves reading, building connections, boating, spending time with her daughter Ashley, husband Jeff, and dogs Bailey and Cooper.For more information on Technology First, please visit: www.technologyfirst.orgConnect with Melissa on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/melissacutcher

Tim Porter is a Manager within Pease & Associates Risk Advisory Services and in our latest podcast episode we talk security at startups and young companies.Tim has dedicated his entire career to Risk Advisory Services where he provides clients with auditory reports that focus on an organization’s internal controls. Tim specializes in advising businesses on how to leverage their controls to generate efficiencies and maintain compliance with regulatory and audit requirements. As a Manager in the Risk Advisory Services Group, Tim focuses on providing tailored solutions and recommendations to service organizations.Tim has worked extensively with clients located around the world and ranging from pre revenue start-ups to over $5 billion in annual revenue. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Common Security Framework Practitioner (CCSFP), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), he understands how to audit many types of systems and operations. Tim leverages his interest in technology and process automation to achieve this in the most efficient way possible. Tim has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a co-major in Business Analytics from Miami University.Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-porter-cpa-ccsfp-cisa-32360b7b/Learn more about the work at Pease CPAs: www.peasecpa.com

Steven Muszynski  is the Founder and CEO of Splash Financial, a Cleveland-based leading digital lending platform that helps borrowers easily shop and compare financial products from a Splash-powered network of credit union and bank partners. In this episode, we talk with Steven about building a FinTech company in Cleveland, business pivots, and scaling a company.Recently named among the top 250 private FinTech companies in the world by CB Insights, Splash’s unique hybrid marketplace model and automated underwriting platform has helped the average person refinancing their student loans save thousands.For more information on Splash, please visit: www.splashfinancial.comTo see career opportunities at Splash, please visit: https://jobs.lever.co/splashfinancialConnect with Steven on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-muszynski-16341b2b/

Tracy Ruberg is the Founder/President of T6 Group and Executive Director of The Circuit, a non-profit IT association in Southwest Ohio. In this episode, we talk with Tracy about aligning strategic business objectives with digital transformation initiatives, the tech ecosystem in Southwest Ohio, and creating tech education opportunities. Throughout her career, Tracy has had the opportunity to work for organizations including E&Y, HP, Dell, EMC, CBTS and others.  Tracy loves working with clients and uses her ability to “stand in the shoes” of the client’s employees at all levels to deliver solid results. She believes in gaining clarity on the end result, and that project success hinges on continuous, strategic, and transparent company-wide communication.When she is not busy working, she can be found doing activities with her family, reading, or planning the next beach vacation.  Tracy has a Quantitative Business Analysis and Marketing degree from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. Learn more about The Circuit: www.thecircuit.netLearn more about T6 Group: www.t6-group.comConnect with Tracy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tracyruberg