Tis the season for Spotify Wrapped! You may have noticed some people sharing their Spotify stats on social media recently, from music to podcasts. Inspired by that, here are some highlights from our podcast, the Rust Belt Rundown.

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1. Most Listened To Episode

Episode 62 featuring Jim Cavoli of Swagelok 

Swagelok is a global manufacturer that is proudly headquartered in Northeast Ohio. They have consistently been awarded as a top workplace, so it comes as no surprise that this episode has become our most listened-to episode ever!

Our host, Paul O’Connor, had the pleasure to sit down with their President & COO, Jim Cavoli. We hear from Jim about his career journey with Swagelok, what the company is doing to mentor careers in manufacturing, and all things manufacturing in Northeast Ohio.

2. Most Chill Episode

Episode 50 featuring Art Oestrike of Jackie O’s Brewery

For our 50th episode of the Rundown, Paul had the unique opportunity to record this episode at Jackie O’s On Fourth in Columbus, Ohio. Check out the video version here to see Art and Paul sit down to share some beers and good conversation. 

Jackie O’s Brewery originated in Athens, Ohio, the home of Ohio University. Art, as well as Paul, are proud OU alumni, making this episode a must-listen for any Bobcats or fans of Jackie O’s.

3. Most Personable Episode

Meet the Host! Episode 57 featuring Paul O’Connor

Taylor Evans (President, Rust Belt Recruiting) takes over as host for this episode to help our listeners get to know his close friend and the host you hear each episode, Paul O’Connor. 

Check it out to hear more about Paul’s background in podcasting, his career outside of podcasts, his favorite parts about hosting the Rundown, and much more.

4. Most Thought-Provoking Episode

Episode 67 featuring Paul Roetzer of the Marketing Artificial Intelligence Institute

Paul Roetzer is a leading expert in AI and is the Founder & CEO of the Marketing Artificial Intelligence Institute. This episode covers all things AI so it is a must-listen if you are interested in (or even apprehensive of!) artificial intelligence.

5. Most Inspiring Episode

Episode 64 featuring Carmen Gentile of Postindustrial Media

Carmen’s unique perspective, informed by growing up in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and his experiences as a war correspondent, provides valuable insights into the complex issues facing postindustrial communities today. From gun control and immigration to the re-invention of industrial jobs, Paul and Carmen engage in a thought-provoking conversation that uncovers the importance of community and resilience.

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A sincere thank you to all of our guests who shared their time and stories with us this year. Check out all of 2023’s episodes and more here. Is there a guest that you’d like to hear on the Rundown? Submit a request here. Learn more about the Rundown and sign up for email notifications here.