"What Gives" Podcast is hosted by Erin Satzger and focuses on philanthropy, community, business and family. Erin is the current CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation. With insightful interviews and thoughtful commentary, "What Gives" is the perfect podcast for anyone who wants to learn more about how business and philanthropy can work together to create a better future for all. Listen now to discover how you can make a difference in your own community.
Rick Flynn spent three decades building Flynn & Company into one of Cincinnati's most respected CPA firms — then sold it. On this episode of What Gives , Erin Satzger sits down with Rick Flynn , now a partner at UHY , the 26th-largest accounting firm in the country, to unpack the whole arc: caddying at Kenwood Country Club, ten years cutting his teeth at EY, the itch to go out on his own in 1994, and the leadership pivot that turned Flynn & Company from a revolving door into a place people built careers. Rick also gets into his other big bet: Warsaw Federal , the Price Hill savings bank he helped pull out of regulatory trouble and turn into Cincinnati's first Minority Depository Institution — funding the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater along the way. And because Rick was a founding business behind what's now the Northern Cincinnati Foundation , the conversation turns to community, philanthropy, AI's role in accounting and giving, and why more choices — in banking, in CPA firms, in everything — make communities stronger. Topics covered: Growing up in the region and learning the ropes under mentor Bob Foppe at Kenwood Country Club Ten years at EY and the decision to go out on his own Building a firm that keeps people instead of burning them out The Warsaw Federal turnaround and becoming a Minority Depository Institution Selling Flynn & Company to UHY — and why "choice" mattered more than the paycheck AI's impact on accounting, philanthropy, and small business What's in Rick's bug-out bag (it's not what you'd guess) What Gives is a production of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation , telling the stories of the business and civic leaders driving economic development across the region. Hashtags #WhatGivesPodcast #NorthernCincinnatiFoundation #CincinnatiBusiness #Philanthropy #Accounting #CPAFirm #Leadership #SmallBusiness #Cincinnati #CommunityFoundation #MergersAndAcquisitions #PriceHill #WarsawFederal #EconomicDevelopment #WestChesterOH
What does it actually take to transform a vacant building into a thriving neighborhood? Erin Satzger , President & CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation , sits down with Jason Woodard , Founder and Principal of Woodard Development , to talk about what drives intentional, community-centered real estate development across the Ohio region. With over 20 years of experience and more than a half-billion dollars in real estate transactions, Jason has helped reshape downtown Dayton through projects like the Water Street District — turning underutilized spaces into mixed-use destinations that attract jobs, residents, and investment. In this conversation, Erin and Jason dig into the intersection of real estate, philanthropy, and economic development — and why the built environment matters more than most people think. #RealEstateDevelopment #CommercialRealEstate #UrbanDevelopment #AdaptiveReuse #MixedUseDevelopment #RealEstateInvesting #CREIndustry #UrbanInfill #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateDeveloper #Philanthropy #EconomicDevelopment #PhilanthropyDrivenDevelopment #NorthernCincinnatIFoundation #CommunityInvestment #ImpactInvesting #CharitableGiving #PurposeDrivenBusiness #Entrepreneurship #FounderStory #BusinessLeadership #SmallBusiness #VisionaryLeader #BuildingBusiness #GrowthMindset #Innovation #JasonWoodard #WoodardDevelopment #ErinSatzger
You Can't Build a Great City Without This! ArtsWave & Cincinnati with Guest Alecia Kintner
When most people think about economic development, the arts aren't usually the first thing that comes to mind. They should be. On this episode of the What Gives Podcast , Erin Satzger , President and CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation , sits down with Alecia Kintner , President & CEO of ArtsWave — the nation's first and largest community campaign for the arts. Alecia has spent her career making the case that creativity isn't a nice-to-have, it's a must-have for any region that wants to attract talent, build community, and actually be a place people want to live. They get into the real numbers behind arts funding, what it takes to rally an entire region around a shared vision, and why Cincinnati is quietly becoming a model for how cities show up for their artists and neighborhoods. If you've ever wondered whether the arts really matter — this conversation will change how you think about it. Key Takeaways: How ArtsWave supports hundreds of arts organizations across Greater Cincinnati. Why the arts are a serious driver of economic growth and talent retention. What it looks like when a whole community invests in creativity together. Stay tuned for the full episode! #ArtsWave #CincinnatiArts #WhatGivesPodcast #ArtsMatter #CommunityImpact #CreativeEconomy #NonprofitLeadership #GreaterCincinnati
The aviation industry is facing a critical workforce gap, and right here in Middletown, Ohio, we are building the solution. On this episode of the What Gives Podcast, we’re filming on-location at the brand-new Butler Tech Aviation Center. Joining me is Dr. William Sprankles , CEO of Butler Tech and a powerhouse in educational innovation. William is the architect of the Fifth Day Experience and is now overseeing one of the most advanced career tech facilities in the country. We’re diving deep into how this $15M investment at the Middletown Regional Airport is transforming lives and fueling the regional economy. Key Takeaways: How Butler Tech is tackling the Aviation Workforce Shortage. The impact of the Aviation Education Hangar on Southwest Ohio students. Why "Student Agency" is the secret sauce to modern education. Stay tuned for the full episode! #ButlerTech #AviationCareers #EducationInnovation #MiddletownOhio #CareerTech #PilotShortage #WhatGivesPodcast #WorkforceDevelopment
ROI of a Lifetime: Real Estate, Space, and the Future of Kids with Billionaire Larry Connor
What is the ultimate Return on Investment? For Larry Connor, it isn’t just found in luxury real estate portfolios or expeditions to outer space—it’s found in the future of the next generation. On this episode of the What Gives Podcast, host Erin Satzger sits down with billionaire Larry Connor (Founder of The Connor Group) to discuss how high-stakes business acumen translates to high-impact philanthropy. Larry is known for his extreme adventures—piloting to the International Space Station and diving to the deepest parts of the ocean—but his most ambitious mission is right here on Earth: revolutionizing education for under-resourced students. We discuss: The Business of Giving: How Larry applies private equity standards and "Connor Group discipline" to non-profit work. Calculated Risk: Why the mindset required for space travel is essential for solving systemic education issues. The Greater Dayton School: A look inside the philosophy and model of Ohio’s first private, non-religious school for under-resourced students. Whether you are an entrepreneur, an investor, or a community leader, this conversation challenges the traditional definition of ROI. Hosted by: Erin Satzger (Northern Cincinnati Foundation) Guest: Larry Connor (The Connor Group) #LarryConnor #RealEstateInvesting #SpaceTravel #Philanthropy #EducationReform #TheConnorGroup #WhatGivesPodcast #BusinessLeadership #ROI #NorthernCincinnatiFoundation #ErinSatzger #NorthernCincinnatiFoundation #Dayton #PhilanthropyPodcast #spacex #elonmusk
In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of What Gives , host Erin Satzger sits down with Logan Hines , Owner and President of Mitchell’s Salon & Day Spa , to talk about legacy, leadership, and love — both for people and for a family business that’s been serving Greater Cincinnati since 1983. Logan shares the moving story of how her mother founded Mitchell’s over 35 years ago, building it into a trusted, family-like community that celebrates beauty in every form. Following her mother’s recent passing, Logan reflects on stepping into leadership and carrying forward her mother’s mission — giving clients time to lighten their spirits and empowering employees to embrace their creativity. Now leading five locations and two brands , Logan is guiding Mitchell’s into a new era while preserving its heart and heritage. Her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and the beauty of honoring the past while shaping the future.
AI for Good: Future-Proofing Philanthropy with Matt King
🎧 Episode Description: In this forward-thinking episode of What Gives , Erin Satzger sits down with the Northern Cincinnati Foundation’s own Chief Marketing Officer, Matt King , for a deep dive into the transformative power of AI in philanthropy . From building AI tools that recommend charitable funds based on a donor's passions, to exploring crypto giving , and even creating a knowledge base powered by veterans’ voices for the USS Cincinnati Submarine Memorial Park — Matt shares how the world of community foundations is being reimagined through the lens of emerging technology. 🚀 Topics include: How AI can personalize donor engagement Using crypto and digital tools to modernize giving Preserving local history through AI-driven storytelling Why community foundations should think more like tech startups This episode will challenge your thinking and inspire you to see how mission and innovation can work hand-in-hand. The future of giving is here — and it’s smarter than ever.
In this episode of What Gives , Erin Satzger, CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation sits down with father-son duo Ron Rosenbeck, Founder of Republic Wire , and Jeremy Rosenbeck, the company’s President. Together, they’ve grown Republic Wire into one of the nation’s premier wire and cable manufacturers — proudly headquartered right here in the Cincinnati region. Ron shares the story of Republic Wire’s humble beginnings and the values that guided the company through decades of innovation and growth. Jeremy brings the next-gen perspective, sharing how the company has evolved under his leadership while staying rooted in the same principles of integrity, hard work, and commitment to community. From building a national business to giving back locally, the Rosenbecks reveal how Republic Wire remains wired into the heart of the region — supporting jobs, families, and local causes. This is a powerful conversation about legacy, leadership, and the kind of business that makes a community stronger. Tune in to hear how Republic Wire is more than just a manufacturer — it’s a force for good.
In this special year-end episode of "What Gives" , host Erin Satzger is joined by Jamie Smith , Market President & Publisher of the Cincinnati Business Courier , and Jesy Heron , VP of Client Partnership at RESLV, Cincinnati’s premier video agency. Together, they reflect on the highlights and challenges of 2024, sharing their unique perspectives on business growth, storytelling, and community engagement in Cincinnati. Jamie offers an insider’s look at the city’s business landscape and trends shaping the year ahead, while Jesy explores how impactful storytelling and creative partnerships have become essential tools for local businesses and nonprofits. This episode is brought to you by the Northern Cincinnati Foundation , where we’re building thriving communities through philanthropy, leadership, and collaboration. #WhatGivesPodcast #CincinnatiBusiness #CommunityImpact #Leadership #Storytelling #CreativePartnerships #NorthernCincinnatiFoundation #QueenCityInnovation #Philanthropy #CincinnatiGrowth
In this episode of "What Gives" , host Erin Satzger engages in a compelling conversation with Jennifer Damiano , the Cincinnati Market President of KeyBank. With a unique background that spans 17 years in the philanthropic sector before transitioning to banking, Jennifer brings a distinctive perspective to her leadership role. She discusses her journey from nonprofit work to leading KeyBank's private banking unit in Cincinnati and Dayton, and now stepping into the market president position. Jennifer shares her vision for deepening KeyBank's community impact, building upon the $384 million in local investments since 2017, and how her philanthropic roots continue to influence her approach to banking. Tune in to explore how Jennifer plans to blend community engagement with financial services to foster economic growth and support for local initiatives.
In this inspiring episode of "What Gives" , host Erin Satzger sits down with Tianay Amat , President & CEO of Cincinnati Works, to explore her journey from leading classrooms to leading workforce empowerment in the Cincinnati region. With over 20 years of experience as an educator and administrator, including her time as Interim Superintendent of Cincinnati Public Schools, Tianay shares how her passion for collaboration and compassion drives her work at Cincinnati Works. She reflects on her leadership journey, her belief in the power of partnerships, and how Cincinnati Works is helping individuals not only find jobs but thrive in an ever-changing workforce. Tianay also provides insights into how her experience in diverse educational settings has shaped her strategies for tackling challenges like economic inequality and workforce preparedness. From preparing students for success to empowering job-seekers to achieve their full potential, her vision highlights the transformative impact of investing in people. Tune in to hear how Cincinnati Works is making a difference, one job-seeker at a time, and discover how you can contribute to a more empowered and equitable workforce.
In this captivating episode of What Gives , host Erin Satzger, President & CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation explores the dynamic intersection of art, light, and community with three creative visionaries who are shaping Cincinnati's cultural landscape. Joining Erin is Andrew Salzbrun , managing partner of AGAR and co-founder of BLINK , one of the nation’s largest light, art, and projection-mapping festivals. Andrew shares the behind-the-scenes story of how BLINK became a beacon of innovation and inclusivity, drawing millions of visitors to Cincinnati while celebrating the city's vibrant artistic spirit. We also dive into the world of two remarkable artists featured in BLINK: Gee Horton , a visual artist whose storytelling through portraiture explores identity and the African-American experience, and Matthew Dayler , Founder of Chroma Projects , known for his large-scale murals and public art that ignite conversations across the urban landscape. Together, they discuss the transformative power of public art, their unique contributions to BLINK, and the ways in which art and culture connect people from all walks of life. This episode offers an intimate look at how creativity can shape cities, foster community, and inspire change. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious about how festivals like BLINK come together, this conversation will leave you inspired by the power of light, color, and artistic collaboration.
Banking on the Future: Park National Bank's Path to Community Empowerment
In this insightful episode of "What Gives" , host Erin Satzger welcomes executives from Park National Bank for an engaging conversation about the future of community banking and its role in regional growth. The discussion covers how Park National Bank has balanced its rich history of personalized service with modern innovations that keep the institution competitive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. The guests share their perspectives on leading a community-focused bank, discussing the bank's approach to fostering economic development, supporting local businesses, and driving philanthropic initiatives that strengthen the communities they serve. Listeners will gain an inside look at the strategies the bank employs to navigate economic fluctuations, regulatory challenges, and shifting customer needs, all while maintaining a commitment to personalized banking and long-term community impact. Whether you're a business owner, community leader, or someone interested in how financial institutions can make a difference locally, this episode will provide valuable insights on leadership, financial resilience, and community engagement. Tune in to hear how Park National Bank is shaping the future of banking with a focus on regional prosperity and innovation.
Prepare for an extraordinary episode of "What Gives" as Erin Satzger sits down with two powerhouse guests who have left an indelible mark on the Cincinnati region: John F. Barrett , President & CEO of Western & Southern Financial Group , and TC Rogers , Butler County Commissioner and renowned home builder. John F. Barrett, at the helm of Western & Southern with $170 billion in assets under management, and TC Rogers, a prominent figure in both public service and the home building industry, share a unique bond that began at the University of Cincinnati where they forged their friendship in the SAE fraternity. Together, they returned to Cincinnati with a shared vision to drive significant economic and community growth. In this special episode, Erin delves into their remarkable journeys—from college days to leading influential organizations that shape the fabric of the region. Discover how their experiences and friendship have influenced their leadership styles and their approach to making a lasting impact on the community. This is more than just a conversation—it's a deep dive into the legacies these two leaders are building in Cincinnati and beyond. Whether you're interested in business, public service, or community development, this episode is a must-listen for anyone inspired by visionary leadership and a commitment to giving back. Tune in to witness a powerful dialogue between two of Cincinnati's most influential figures and learn how their paths intertwined to create a legacy of success and community impact. #CincinnatiLeaders #BusinessAndCommunity #WesternAndSouthern #ButlerCounty #JohnFBarrett #TCRogers #Leadership #WhatGivesPodcast #EconomicImpact #CommunityDevelopment #ErinSatzger #SAEFraternity #UniversityOfCincinnati 4o
Join host Erin Satzger on this insightful episode of the "What Gives" Podcast as we delve into the world of financial planning and wealth management with Marc Henn , the founder and CEO of Harvest Financial Advisors. Marc is a Certified Financial Planner Practitioner (CFP®) with over thirty years of experience, dedicated to assisting family office and wealth management clients. In this episode, Marc shares his extensive journey in the financial industry, highlighting his affiliations with the College for Financial Planning (CFP® certification) and the Financial Planning Association (FPA). As a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Arbitrator and a member of the American Numismatic Association, Marc brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. We explore Marc's passion for educating and planning for the next generation, discussing his regular speaking engagements with various groups about planning and investing. Marc also shares how his involvement with his church and his commitment to his family—spending quality time with his wife and five daughters—enriches his approach to financial planning. Tune in to discover how Marc Henn and Harvest Financial Advisors are making a significant impact in the financial world, providing valuable insights and fostering a culture of excellence and client-centric service. Learn practical advice and thought-provoking discussions that can help you navigate the complexities of financial planning and investing. Listen to "What Gives" and join Erin Satzger as she uncovers the inspiring stories behind philanthropic efforts, offering practical advice and engaging discussions. Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist or simply passionate about making a difference, this podcast will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to contribute to your community in meaningful ways.
Join host Erin Satzger on this enlightening episode of the What Gives Podcast as we dive into the world of sustainable energy with Seth Parker and Fabian Schmahl from Melink Solar. Since 2009, Melink Solar has been a pioneer in the commercial solar industry, dedicated to reducing power costs and championing Net Zero energy buildings. With a staggering 115 megawatts of solar power installed and over 150,000 sites serviced, Melink Solar stands at the forefront of the green revolution. In this episode, Seth and Fabian share their journey in the solar industry, discuss the challenges and triumphs of designing and building innovative solar PV systems, and explain how their work supports businesses in achieving their sustainability goals. From ground-mounted arrays to sophisticated solar canopies, learn how Melink Solar’s commitment to full-service solar solutions is paving the way for a cleaner, greener future. Tune in to discover how Melink Solar puts 100% of their energy into achieving Net Zero, transforming the commercial landscape one solar project at a time. Listen to "What Gives" and join Erin Satzger as she uncovers the inspiring stories behind philanthropic efforts, offering practical advice and thought-provoking discussions along the way. Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist or simply passionate about making a difference, this podcast will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to contribute to your community in meaningful ways.
Join us on this inspiring episode of "What Gives" as host Erin Satzger welcomes two distinguished guests, Emma Off and Sarah Douglas, from CincyTech. Emma, the CEO, President, and Partner at CincyTech, brings her extensive legal expertise and deep-rooted community involvement to the table. With a rich background in mergers and acquisitions and accolades such as "Lawyer of the Year," Emma discusses the critical role of legal frameworks in nurturing high-growth companies and how these structures support entrepreneurial success. Sarah Douglas, a Director at CincyTech, shares her journey from analyzing investment portfolio performance at Cambridge Associates to leading venture capital initiatives that transform scientific research into groundbreaking commercial products. She delves into the excitement and challenges of funding technologies that promise to change lives, providing listeners with an inside look at the venture capital process and its impact on healthcare and technology sectors. Together, they explore how their roles intersect and complement each other in driving innovation and supporting startups. Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist, a sports enthusiast, or just passionate about making a difference, this episode will inspire and equip you to contribute more effectively to your community. Tune in to discover how these two leaders use their expertise to solve complex problems and encourage community engagement through thoughtful investment and legal insight.
Kicking it with Jeff Berding: The Making of an MLS Powerhouse
"What Gives" invites you to explore the remarkable journey of Jeff Berding, Co-CEO of FC Cincinnati, as he shares insights from his diverse career spanning sports management, community engagement, and leadership. Join host Erin Satzger for an in-depth conversation with Jeff Berding, a fifth-generation Cincinnatian whose visionary leadership has propelled FC Cincinnati from a USL franchise to Major League Soccer prominence. Discover the strategic decisions and personal experiences that have shaped Berding's trajectory, from his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals to his pivotal role in founding and growing FC Cincinnati. Gain firsthand insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a successful sports franchise, culminating in the opening of TQL Stadium in 2021. Format: Host Introduction: Erin Satzger sets the stage for the episode and introduces Jeff Berding. Guest Introduction: Dive into Jeff Berding's background, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the sports industry. Journey Overview: Jeff shares key moments and milestones from his career, from his time with the Cincinnati Bengals to the founding of FC Cincinnati. Building FC Cincinnati: Explore Berding's role in transforming FC Cincinnati from a USL franchise to a Major League Soccer powerhouse. Leadership Lessons: Learn from Berding's leadership philosophy and strategies for success in sports management and community engagement. Q&A: Erin engages Jeff in a lively Q&A session, covering audience questions and additional insights. Closing Remarks: Erin wraps up the episode, emphasizing key takeaways and teasing future episodes.
Growing Regional Outcomes: Northern Kentucky
Join us for a powerful episode of "What Gives" as Erin Satzger engages in a dynamic conversation with two influential leaders shaping the landscape of Northern Kentucky. Meet Nancy Grayson , President & CEO at Horizon Community Funds, and Lee Crume , President & CEO at BE NKY Growth Partnership . Nancy brings her wealth of experience as the head of Horizon Community Funds , the community-wide foundation dedicated to making a lasting difference in Northern Kentucky. Discover how Horizon Community Funds provides a unique platform for pooling resources, enabling both individuals and businesses to contribute to the betterment of the community. Lee Crume, with over 30 years of experience in economic development, private industry sales, and operations, sheds light on the multifaceted role of BE NKY Growth Partnership. Learn about his passion for creating collaborative organizations and driving sustainable business processes to achieve impactful results. Together, Nancy and Lee share insights into the intersection of economic development, philanthropy, and community-building in Northern Kentucky. From complex business decisions to efficient, sustainable processes, this episode explores how their leadership is driving positive change and making a difference for generations to come. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the visionary leaders behind the economic and philanthropic growth in Northern Kentucky. This is a conversation you won't want to miss! #NorthernKentuckyLeaders #EconomicDevelopment #Philanthropy #CommunityImpact #HorizonCommunityFunds #BENKYGrowthPartnership #WhatGivesPodcast #LeadershipInAction #ErinSatzger
Join us for a compelling episode of "What Gives" as Erin Satzger sits down with Nick Enger and Dave Goodwin , executives from Advanced Technology Solutions (ATC) . ATC is not just your ordinary IT consulting firm; it's a powerhouse specializing in Digital Transformation across voice, network, cloud, and cybersecurity. Discover the unique Delta Model that sets ATC apart, simplifying the complex landscape of IT technologies for businesses. Nick and Dave share insights into how ATC is reshaping the digital landscape and empowering businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving tech world. But the conversation doesn't stop there. Nick Enger, also opens up about his personal journey and the creation of The Hoody Memorial Fund in memory of his close friend, Master Sergeant Corey Hood. Uncover the inspiring story of a proud Lakota West graduate turned Army hero and Golden Knight, and how the scholarship is carrying on his legacy. From cutting-edge tech solutions to heartfelt philanthropy, this episode is a unique blend of innovation, tribute, and community impact. Join us in exploring the intersection of technology and humanity with ATC and The Hoody Memorial Fund. Tune in to be inspired and informed about the incredible work happening at the intersection of technology, education, and honoring the legacy of true heroes.
