It is with both gratitude and a heavy heart that I share this episode. Ron took the time to speak with me in early summer 2024, and I truly enjoyed our conversation. He was a wealth of knowledge, and I had the pleasure of knowing him for about 10 years, sharing insightful discussions from time to time.

If you're a business owner, this is a must-listen episode.

Ron grew up in Girard and graduated from Girard City Schools. At 28, he began his post-high school education in Hiram College’s weekend program. He went on to earn his master’s degree from Antioch in Yellow Springs, Ohio, and later obtained a Ph.D. in Leadership from the Union Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio.

A seasoned traveler, Ron started his career at Peerless Winsmith in Warren and spent many years working in consulting and business turnaround strategies. He emphasized that businesses often face similar challenges—you are not alone in dealing with issues within your company.

In this episode, we discuss startup strategies and business scaling. If you're an entrepreneur, pay close attention around the 36-minute mark. Also, take advantage of your local SCORE office in Youngstown—a valuable and free resource for business owners.

We also touch on local economic growth and how Warren can expand exponentially.

Exciting news! Rural King is building a new store on Parkman Road—welcome to Warren!
Kimberly-Clark, it’s time to build and create jobs!
Learn about the Lake to River organization and why it plays a vital role in Warren’s future.
Keep an eye out for #MoveToWarren—our city is positioned for growth, but it will take effort! LET'S GO!
Ron strongly believed in leaving the world better than he found it.

Ron Emery
April 19, 1957 – August 22, 2024

Song - Keepers of the Faith by Terror

Frank Bosak – WGH Robotics (Recorded 2024)

Frank Bosak is the Head Chief of the Robotics Department at Warren G. Harding High School and also works in the Warren City Schools Technology Department. A proud Warren native, he graduated from Warren G. Harding in 2005. Frank shares memories of growing up in Warren, including the irresistible smell of Uncle Nick’s chicken.

Frank joined the WGH Robotics team in 2002. The team was founded in 1998 and won the National Championship in 1999. In this discussion, we explore how the robotics team operates, how competitions are run, and the impact the program has on both the school and individual students. Over its 27-year history, Warren’s robotics team has competed at the national and international level in more than half of those years.

Hear the story of how the team once got “stuck” in Orlando, Florida, and learn about exciting new developments, including the team’s dedicated shop and expansion into 3D printing.

The robotics team is actively seeking volunteers and sponsors to support its mission through the Warren Robotics Boosters 501(c)(3). If you're interested in helping, reach out to frank.bosak@warrencityschools.

We also share personal stories from our time growing up in Warren City Schools.

We love Don (RIP) and Donna Fowler! Go Raiders!

Leslie Dunlap
Owner of Fatty Cakes Soap Company and Fifth Mountain Therapy

In this conversation, we explore Leslie's life growing up on Kenilworth Avenue SE, where she attended Laird Avenue Elementary, East Junior High, and graduated from Warren G. Harding High School, Class of 1983. She reflects on her time in the neighborhood, sharing fond memories of shopping at Cicero’s Grocery Store and enjoying pizza from Carmen’s.

After high school, Leslie entered the workforce but later pivoted at the age of 38, returning to school to pursue a career in massage therapy. She earned a two-year degree in Occupational Sciences and became certified in Neuromuscular Therapy. During our discussion, she breaks down the key differences between a masseuse and a licensed massage therapist.

Leslie also shares the story behind Fatty Cakes Soap Company—known for its tagline, "Funny name, serious soap"—and how her passion for high-quality, handmade products led her to start the business.

We discuss her experiences during the pandemic, how she navigated its challenges, and the inspiration behind the name Fifth Mountain Therapy.

This interview was recorded in 2024.

Check out her work:
Fatty Cakes Soap Company on Facebook