In episode 97 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Bret Fisher, CEO of Achieve Credit Union.

Bret discusses the organization's history, core services, and community impact initiatives.

He shares his journey from a traditional banking background to leading Achieve Credit Union, highlighting the differences between credit unions and traditional banks.

He also talks about Achieve's technological advancements, community involvement, especially funding local education and nonprofits, and the cultural shift within the organization towards better member service.

Bret explains the challenges and opportunities faced by Achieve in a rapidly changing financial landscape and offers his thoughts on the local economy of Lorain County.

Finally, Bret reveals his personal interests and how they influence his leadership style.

Insights with Bret Fisher: Transforming Achieve Credit Union and Serving the Community

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

00:37 Guest Introduction: Bret Fisher, CEO of Achieve Credit Union

01:04 Bret Fisher's Background and Achieve Credit Union Overview

03:11 Credit Unions vs. Banks: Key Differences

04:16 Products and Services Offered by Achieve Credit Union

04:50 Challenges and Opportunities for Achieve Credit Union

06:39 Community Impact and Involvement

08:25 Awards and Recognition

10:02 Leadership and Culture at Achieve Credit Union

11:04 Technological Advancements in Financial Services

13:14 Local Economy and Future Plans

14:09 Personal Insights: Bret Fisher's Journey and Interests

19:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 96 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Bill Hudnutt, Publisher of The Chronicle Telegram and President of Lorain County Printing and Publishing.

He shares insights into his role, the stories behind the Chronicle Telegram, and challenges faced in the newspaper industry.

Bill discusses the history and evolution of the company, which has been family-owned since 1927, and addresses how they're adapting to industry changes by embracing digital platforms while sustaining their print product.

He highlights the importance of local journalism in fostering community trust and engagement, supporting local businesses, and remaining relevant in the digital age.

Bill also touches on future goals, community involvement, and the potential role of artificial intelligence in news production.

Maintaining Tradition and Innovating at the Chronicle Telegram: An Interview with Bill Hudnutt

00:00 Introduction and Goals

00:16 Episode Introduction and Guest Overview

01:59 Bill Hudnutt's Background and Role

02:13 The Chronicle Telegram's Legacy and Evolution

04:42 Challenges and Changes in the Newspaper Industry

09:42 Community Engagement and Support

12:05 Artificial Intelligence in Journalism

16:00 Leadership and Personal Insights

22:30 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 95 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Tiffany McClelland, the Executive Director of the Lorain Port and Finance Authority.

Founded in 1964, the Authority focuses on driving economic development through waterborne commerce and waterfront access.

Tiffany elaborates on the unique role and special powers of the Port Authority compared to other local economic development organizations.

She describes her varied day-to-day responsibilities, from facilitating business expansion to managing public assets like marinas and an amphitheater under construction.

Discussing the long-term impact, Tiffany highlights the significant economic contributions of Lorain's harbor and the potential for future growth.

She emphasizes the importance of collaboration with various governmental and non-governmental partners.

Tiffany also shares ongoing projects and future developments, including property development and enhanced waterfront connectivity.

The interview concludes with Tiffany reflecting on her journey from intern to Executive Director, her leadership style, and her commitment to balancing work with personal interests.

Tiffany McClelland Discusses Economic Development with the Lorain Port and Finance Authority

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:39 Meet Tiffany McClelland: Executive Director of the Lorain Port and Finance Authority

01:27 The Role and Impact of the Lorain Port Authority

04:53 Tiffany's Journey and Responsibilities

07:07 Current and Future Projects

12:02 Tourism and Community Impact

13:46 Economic Development and Financing Initiatives

20:04 Challenges and Opportunities in Lorain

27:09 Tiffany's Background and Leadership

35:04 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 94 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Jim Miller, Executive Director of the Lorain County Port Authority.

Jim provides an in-depth overview of the organization's mission and projects.

Founded in 2001, the Lorain County Port Authority focuses on enhancing transportation, economic development, housing, recreation, government services, education, culture, and research.

He delineates the various programs and financing mechanisms available, such as bond financing and sales tax exemption advantages.

He also highlights significant projects including the redevelopment of Midway Mall and support for Ford's new plant in Sheffield Village.

Miller emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local, county, and state entities to drive economic growth.

Additionally, he shares his professional background, leadership philosophy, and personal interests. Unlocking Economic Potential: Insights from Jim Miller of Lorain County Port Authority00:00 Introduction to the Lorain County Port Authority

00:17 Podcast Introduction and Sponsors

00:39 Meet Jim Miller: Executive Director of Lorain County Port Authority

01:10 Understanding the Lorain County Port Authority

05:00 Jim Miller's Role and Responsibilities

06:03 Midway Mall Redevelopment Project

07:04 Great Lakes Innovation District and Airport Mega Sites

08:31 Port Authority's Approach to Housing

09:17 Collaboration and Community Projects

10:32 Funding and Financial Strategies

12:30 Jim Miller's Background and Personal Insights

16:02 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 93 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Anastasia Diamond-Ortiz, Director of the Lorain Public Library System.

Anastasia offers an in-depth discussion about the diverse services and programs offered by the library across multiple communities in Lorain County.

She emphasizes the library's focus on literacy, community partnerships, and evolving roles in digital access and educational support.

Anastasia also highlights unique initiatives like the Level Up tutoring program and makerspaces, and discusses the library's significant impact on both urban and rural populations.

She touches on her leadership style, professional background, and personal interests, concluding with details on the upcoming 125th anniversary and ways for the community to engage with the library.

Insightful Journeys: Anastasia Diamond-Ortiz on the Role and Future of Lorain Public Library System

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

00:41 Meet Anastasia Diamond Ortiz

01:10 Personal Connection to the Library

02:29 Overview of the Lorain Public Library System

03:19 Key Services and Programs

05:15 Community Engagement and Outreach

06:10 Unique Initiatives and Partnerships

08:52 Digital Access and Bridging the Divide

10:43 Funding and Challenges

15:02 Leadership and Personal Insights

17:52 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 92 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Darryl Q. Tucker, Managing Editor of The Morning Journal.

He provides an inside look at the operations, responsibilities, and community engagement of the Morning Journal.

Darryl discusses the history and coverage area of the newspaper, his daily activities, the decision-making process for story coverage, and the importance of community-focused journalism.

He emphasizes the Journal's efforts to highlight positive stories in the community and shares insights on the evolving landscape of local journalism, including digital adaptation and economic challenges.

Darryl also speaks about his personal involvement in various community organizations and provides details on the Mary Lee Tucker Clothe-a-Child program, inviting listeners to support their initiatives.

Inside The Morning Journal: A Conversation with Managing Editor Darryl Tucker

00:00 Breaking News and Digital Delivery

00:19 Introduction to the Podcast

00:39 Guest Introduction: Darryl Tucker

01:04 Personal Reflections on the Morning Journal

01:37 The Evolution of Local Journalism

02:15 Inside the Morning Journal: Operations and Editorial Decisions

04:40 Community Engagement and Positive Stories

08:12 Economic Development and Community Involvement

13:52 Personal Insights and Leadership

17:04 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 91 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Gary Tollett, owner and president of WOBL-WDLW Radio Inc.

Gary discusses the origins of WOBL dating back to 1971, the role of local radio in serving the community, and the day-to-day operations involved in managing a local station.

He highlights their commitment to community service, providing a platform for local businesses, and maintaining a diverse programming lineup.

Gary also delves into the personal challenges and triumphs they've experienced, including navigating the impact of COVID-19 and rebranding efforts.

The episode underscores the importance of supporting local endeavors and the irreplaceable value of local radio.

Gary Tollett on Running WOBL and WDLW Radio: A Local Radio Legacy

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:35 Meet Gary Tollett: Owner and President of WOBL and WDLW Radio

02:09 The Origins and History of WOBL Radio

04:06 Managing a Local Radio Station: Roles and Responsibilities

06:49 Programming and Content on WOBL and WDLW

10:50 Supporting Local Businesses and Community Engagement

14:22 Personal Journey and Challenges

17:14 Decision to Buy the Radio Station

19:42 Achievements and Future Goals

21:39 Personal Interests and Hobbies

22:44 Conclusion and How to Connect

In episode 90 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Patricia O’Brien, Executive Director of The Stocker Foundation.

Patty provides an in-depth overview of the foundation's history, mission, and grant-making strategies.

Established in 1979 by Beth K. Stocker and her daughters, the Stocker Foundation continues a legacy of gratitude-driven philanthropy.

She discusses the foundation’s transition from broad-based giving to a focused approach on literacy and STEAM education.

She highlights significant milestones, including the success of the Lorain County Imagination Library, and elaborates on the collaborative efforts with schools, nonprofits, and other funders.

Patty also shares personal insights into her role, what makes an effective philanthropist, and her journey within the organization.

Listeners can learn about the foundation’s grant cycle, its commitment to multi-generational involvement, and the metrics used to define success in their philanthropic endeavors.

The Evolution and Impact of the Stocker Foundation

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome

00:32 Meet Patty O'Brien: Executive Director of the Stocker Foundation

02:07 The Legacy and Evolution of the Stocker Foundation

04:58 Strategic Focus on Literacy and STEAM Education

05:52 Funding and Financials of the Stocker Foundation

15:55 Grant Making Process and Community Impact

20:47 Collaboration and Community Engagement

25:13 Personal Journey and Reflections of Patty O'Brien

33:27 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up