In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Josh Reit, Vice President of North American Manufacturing at Pernod Ricard, for an inside look at one of North America’s largest and most advanced distillery operations right here in Windsor-Essex.

Josh shares his journey from Wisconsin to global leadership, offering insight into what it takes to lead at scale while maintaining a strong connection to people, process, and performance. The conversation dives into the remarkable capabilities of the Windsor facility, including its ability to process tens of millions of litres annually using locally sourced Essex County grain and its unique ability to produce multiple distillates simultaneously.

The discussion explores how Pernod Ricard balances heritage and innovation, especially when supporting iconic brands like J.P. Wiser’s. From honoring tradition to evolving products for new generations, Josh explains how brand stewardship plays a critical role in long-term success.

Sustainability and technology are also front and center. Josh outlines how the facility is evolving through energy efficiency improvements, waste reduction strategies, and smarter manufacturing systems. He also highlights the growing role of AI and automation in modern production environments and how these tools are reshaping the workforce and operational efficiency.

The episode also touches on the importance of partnerships with local institutions like the University of Windsor and St. Clair College, helping develop the next generation of talent and ensuring Windsor-Essex remains competitive in advanced manufacturing.

In this episode you will hear about:

• The scale and complexity of Windsor’s Pernod Ricard facility
• How heritage brands like J.P. Wiser’s continue to evolve
• Sustainability initiatives and environmental innovation in manufacturing
• The growing role of AI and smart manufacturing systems
• Leadership strategies focused on people, culture, and autonomy
• Workforce development and partnerships with local institutions
• The future of Windsor-Essex as a manufacturing and innovation hub

From distilling and sustainability to leadership and technology, this episode highlights how Windsor-Essex continues to play a key role in global manufacturing and brand excellence.

Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, innovation, culture, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex.

New episodes released weekly.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Josh Reit and Windsor operations
02:05 Josh’s background and career journey
06:39 Windsor distillery capacity and capabilities
08:20 Canadian whisky and brand heritage
10:01 Balancing heritage and innovation
12:09 Canadian whisky profile and accessibility
15:00 Portfolio insights and tasting stories
17:08 Operational complexity and national impact
23:35 Infrastructure and production systems
25:28 Community engagement and event space
26:34 Sustainability initiatives and agreements
28:45 Environmental improvements and emissions
30:09 Waste reduction and process innovation
34:30 Leadership philosophy and team development
36:43 Future of manufacturing and AI integration
39:18 Partnerships with education and workforce development
40:59 Closing thoughts on leadership and community

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Gina Facca, entrepreneur and founder of Pickleplex, for a conversation about leadership, growth, and building community through sport.

Gina shares her journey from a background in accounting and project management to managing cinemas and ultimately launching Pickleplex, one of the fastest-growing indoor pickleball concepts in Windsor-Essex. Drawing on years of experience across industries, she explains how transferable skills, strong partnerships, and a willingness to adapt helped her successfully transition into entrepreneurship.

At the heart of the conversation is community. Gina emphasizes how pickleball is more than just a sport. It is a social experience that brings people together across generations and skill levels. From post-game conversations to organized events and leagues, Pickleplex has been built to foster connection, inclusion, and engagement throughout the region.

The episode also explores the rapid rise of pickleball in Windsor-Essex and beyond, including the role of municipalities, local organizations, and partnerships in supporting its growth. Gina shares insights into scaling a business in a fast-moving market, the importance of mentorship and internships, and how she is developing the next generation of leaders within her organization.

The conversation also touches on branding, including the story behind the name Pickleplex, and what it takes to create a recognizable and scalable identity. Looking ahead, Gina outlines her vision for expansion across Canada and how Pickleplex can continue to play a role in strengthening communities through sport and shared experiences.

In this episode you will hear about:

• Gina Facca’s transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship
• The launch and rapid growth of Pickleplex
• Why community engagement is central to business success
• The rise of pickleball and its impact on Windsor-Essex
• Scaling a business through partnerships and strategic growth
• Mentorship, internships, and developing future leaders
• Expansion plans for Pickleplex across Canada

From business strategy to community building, this episode highlights how sport can be a powerful driver of connection and growth.

Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, sport, culture, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex.

New episodes released weekly.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome and episode overview
01:03 Gina’s background in accounting and project management
02:40 Transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship
04:13 Applying business experience to new ventures
06:46 Inspiration behind Pickleplex
09:34 Community engagement and social connections
10:47 Corporate events and social sports
13:41 The inclusive nature of pickleball
15:19 Growth of pickleball in Windsor-Essex
17:22 Expansion beyond Windsor-Essex
18:42 Origin of pickleball and brand naming
22:02 Tasting regional snacks and branding
25:03 Balancing roles between Pickleplex and cinema business
28:42 Early challenges and growth lessons
32:28 Mentorship, internships, and leadership development
38:21 Windsor-Essex’s future in recreation and sport
39:59 How to connect with Pickleplex

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens joins Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel on Beyond 2 Bridges to talk infrastructure, economic development, and what's next for Windsor-Essex.

Now in his third term, Mayor Dilkens shares the story behind some of the city's biggest moves — from the Gordie Howe International Bridge and the $5-billion NextStar Energy EV battery plant to the Sandwich South development plan and Windsor Works strategy. He opens up about his leadership philosophy, tackling homelessness, downtown revitalization, and why long-term planning matters more than short-term wins.

Plus: the Windsor-Essex Iconic bracket finale is HERE. Windsor Pizza vs. Willistead Manor. Local Wineries vs. the Minivan. Only one can be crowned the most iconic symbol of Windsor-Essex — and the Mayor makes the final call. You'll have to watch to find out who wins.

🥃 Taste of the County: 42-year-old Wiser's Whisky — a nod to Windsor's deep roots with the legendary Hiram Walker Distillery.

This episode is sponsored by the Chamber Plan — group benefits built for small business. Learn more → https://www.chamberplan.ca/

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Mayor Drew Dilkens

03:05 Early Political Influences and Journey

05:45 Transition from Councilor to Mayor

10:05 Understanding Municipal Challenges

12:59 State of the City: Long-Term Vision

16:54 Community Pride and Economic Development

20:04 The Impact of the Gordie Howe Bridge

23:06 Celebrating Local Heritage and Industry

30:56 The Art of Tasting and Savoring Spirits

32:03 Celebrating Windsor's Iconic Figures

34:15 The Windsor Pizza vs. Minivan Showdown

38:26 Addressing Homelessness and Community Support

51:02 The Secret Sauce of Leadership

53:57 Envisioning Windsor's Future

Beyond 2 Bridges is the official podcast of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. New episodes weekly.

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