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.

#Windsor #MayorDrewDilkens #WindsorEssex #GordieHoweBridge #NextStarEnergy #WindsorPizza #WindsorEssexIconic #BeyondTwoBridges #ChamberOfCommerce #EconomicDevelopment #Infrastructure #Ontario #WisersWhisky #HiramWalker #WindsorOntario

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Dr. Justin Teeuwen, international speaker, educator, and co-founder of Meta Excellence, for a powerful conversation on performance, leadership, and the future of learning.

With a background spanning physics, education, and global teaching experience, Justin brings a unique perspective on how individuals and organizations can elevate their thinking, decision-making, and results. Through his work with Meta Excellence, he focuses on helping people develop what he calls Meta Habits, built through four core areas: metacognition, metaemotion, metawellness, and metacharacter.

The conversation dives into practical strategies that leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals can apply immediately. From improving planning efficiency to reducing overwhelm, Justin shows how small changes in thinking can lead to significant performance gains.

The episode also explores the evolution of Meta Excellence and how its programs are being used across universities, colleges, and industries worldwide. Justin explains how understanding how we think, feel, and act allows individuals to unlock higher levels of growth and effectiveness.

The discussion also touches on small business challenges, delegation, and the realities of building something meaningful while balancing growth and sustainability. As always, the conversation connects back to Windsor-Essex and the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous development in shaping the region’s future.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• What metacognition is and how it improves leadership and decision-making
• The four Meta Tools and how they enhance performance
• Why planning and structure dramatically increase efficiency
• Strategies for reducing overwhelm and improving focus
• The evolution of Meta Excellence and its impact globally
• The role of collaboration and innovation in Windsor-Essex

This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to improve how they think, lead, and perform.

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

New episodes released weekly.

Chamber Affinity Partner: Meta Excellence

Meta Excellence is proud to be an Affinity Partner with the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, providing advanced performance and learning tools to businesses, leaders, and organizations.

Learn more about Meta Excellence:
https://www.meta-excellence.com

Connect with Meta Excellence:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetaExcellence

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metaexcellence/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meta-excellence

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction and personal transformations
07:08 Introducing Justin Teeuwen and Meta Excellence
18:16 Expanding Meta Excellence and future goals
22:29 The importance of planning in performance
24:12 Taste of the region featuring Darrell’s Bars
28:03 Meta Excellence and levels of growth
34:11 Challenges of small business ownership
37:50 Daily life of a business owner
40:20 Delegation and marketing strategies
44:13 What makes Meta Excellence unique
47:37 The future of Windsor-Essex and collaboration

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Fadi Bidawid, co-founder of Nuts 4 Dates, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, culture, and community-driven growth in Windsor-Essex.

Alongside his wife Lena, Fadi took an unplanned leap into business and proved that it is never too late to start. Rooted in their Iraqi heritage, where dates symbolise hospitality and everyday life, Nuts 4 Dates was built as a reflection of home, culture, and the flavours they grew up with.

What started just over two years ago has quickly grown into one of Windsor-Essex’s most recognizable local food brands. Their handcrafted date bites are proudly made in Windsor and carry Ontario Made certification. Through local markets, expos, and strong community support, the business has expanded into more than 20 retailers and recently moved from a rental kitchen into their own brick and mortar manufacturing space in historic Ford City.

Fadi shares the full journey behind the brand, from early challenges to rapid growth, and why community has been the driving force behind everything they do. The conversation also highlights how giving back, storytelling, and meaningful relationships have helped shape both the business and its impact across the region.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• The origin of Nuts 4 Dates and its connection to Iraqi culture
• How local markets and community support fueled early growth
• Scaling from a small kitchen to a dedicated production facility
• The importance of passion, trust, and consistency in business
• Building a brand rooted in generosity, storytelling, and connection
• The future of Nuts 4 Dates and Windsor-Essex as a growing region

From food to family to entrepreneurship, this episode is a powerful reminder that community is at the heart of every successful business.

Explore Nuts 4 Dates:
https://www.nuts4dates.ca

Follow Nuts 4 Dates:
https://www.instagram.com/nuts.4dates

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

New episodes are released weekly.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to market season and community events
07:04 Nuts 4 Dates and early success
26:43 Fadi’s entrepreneurial journey
31:30 The story behind dates and cultural roots
34:06 How Nuts 4 Dates started
37:54 Building community through business
41:14 Creating a space in Ford City
45:57 Scaling up and growing the brand
49:40 Passion, purpose, and community impact
57:31 The future of Windsor-Essex

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Moya McAlister, Executive Director of Arts Collective Theatre and a driving force behind Windsor-Essex’s growing arts and culture scene.

Moya shares her journey from Toronto to Windsor and how she has built a career rooted in storytelling, social justice, and community impact. Through her leadership at Arts Collective Theatre, she has helped create a platform for emerging artists, youth programming, and productions that amplify voices and experiences that deserve to be heard.

The conversation explores how Moya balances multiple roles across theatre, nonprofit work, and community initiatives, including her involvement with Fashion Week Windsor and the National Self-Represented Litigants Project. She reflects on what it takes to lead in the arts space, why listening and understanding people is critical, and how strong community engagement can create lasting change.

The episode also dives into the broader role of arts and culture in shaping Windsor-Essex. From building inclusive spaces to supporting the next generation of creatives, Moya outlines a vision for the region as a thriving arts hub by 2040.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Moya McAlister’s journey from Toronto to Windsor-Essex
• The growth and impact of Arts Collective Theatre
• How arts, storytelling, and social justice intersect
• The importance of networking, mentorship, and leadership
• Balancing multiple roles across nonprofit and creative sectors
• A vision for Windsor-Essex as a leading arts and culture hub

This conversation highlights how creativity, leadership, and community connection are shaping the future of Windsor-Essex.

Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, arts, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people shaping the region.

New episodes are released weekly.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Moya McAlister and her work
02:08 Moya’s journey in the arts community
07:41 Growth and leadership in Arts Collective Theatre
10:49 Balancing multiple roles and social justice initiatives
14:49 Community engagement and support initiatives
19:00 Secrets to success and networking
25:06 Upcoming projects and the future of Arts Collective Theatre
29:48 Vision for Windsor-Essex in 2040

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Gordon Orr, CEO of Invest WindsorEssex and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, for an in-depth conversation about the forces shaping the future of Windsor-Essex.

With more than 30 years of leadership experience in economic development, tourism, and hospitality, Gordon shares his journey through the region’s tourism sector and the evolution of Windsor-Essex as a destination for both visitors and investment. From regional branding and marketing campaigns to strategic partnerships across the Windsor-Detroit corridor, he explains how collaboration drives growth and resilience in the local economy.

The discussion explores the region’s most important tourism assets, including wineries, outdoor experiences, gaming, and cultural attractions, along with how modern tourism marketing now blends digital itineraries, influencer partnerships, and targeted campaigns across Canada and the United States.

Gordon also discusses major regional developments such as the Gordie Howe International Bridge, and how projects like this create new opportunities for tourism, trade, and economic expansion across the Windsor-Detroit corridor.

During the episode, Gordon also joins the hosts for the Windsor Iconic Challenge, helping determine which regional landmarks and favourites continue advancing in the competition. As the bracket narrows, the debate over Windsor’s most iconic people, places, and things continues to intensify.

The conversation also highlights the evolving role of Invest WindsorEssex in attracting international investment while supporting local business growth. Gordon explains how building trust, collaboration, and strong regional branding helps position Windsor-Essex competitively in global markets.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Gordon Orr’s journey in tourism, hospitality, and economic development
• The evolution and rebranding of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island
• Windsor-Essex’s key tourism assets, including wineries, outdoor activities, and gaming
• Marketing strategies that attract visitors and investors to the region
• The economic impact of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
• The importance of regional partnerships and collaboration
• The future vision for Windsor-Essex through Invest WindsorEssex

From tourism and culture to investment and economic strategy, this episode highlights how regional collaboration continues to shape the future of Windsor-Essex.

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

New episodes are released weekly.

00:00 Introduction to Gordon Orr and Windsor-Essex’s economic landscape
02:01 Gordon’s background in tourism and hospitality
03:26 The history and evolution of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island
06:48 Key tourism assets, including wineries, outdoor experiences, and gaming
09:53 Regional marketing strategies and campaign cycles
11:14 The significance of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
12:26 Tourism brand evolution and campaign lifespan
15:08 Content creators and influencer marketing in tourism
16:21 Target tourism markets, including the U.S. and Ontario
18:21 Windsor Iconic assets voting segment
22:02 Community involvement and local support
25:15 Sampling Tony Black’s Union Bakery cannoli
27:04 Gordon’s community engagement and public involvement
30:45 Transition to Invest WindsorEssex and its strategic vision
33:02 Building partnerships in economic development
36:49 Investment attraction and global marketing strategies
42:25 Regional collaboration and community branding
44:21 Final reflections on the future of Windsor-Essex
47:15 Upcoming regional even

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Vincent Georgie, Executive Director and Chief Programmer of the Windsor International Film Festival, and faculty member at the Odette School of Business.

Dr. Georgie has played a pivotal role in shaping Windsor’s cultural and economic landscape by advancing WIFF's continued growth, now Canada’s largest volunteer-run film festival and a major driver of arts, tourism, and downtown revitalization in Windsor-Essex. Drawing on his background in marketing, cultural leadership, and community engagement, he shares lessons from building one of the region’s most successful cultural institutions.

Throughout the conversation, Vincent reflects on his journey from Montréal to Windsor, the mentors who shaped his path, and why leadership ultimately comes down to people, trust, and relationships. He discusses the importance of recruiting great talent, building strong teams, and creating an environment where creativity and collaboration can thrive.

The episode also dives into the power of storytelling and culture in shaping a community’s identity. From film programming decisions to the broader economic impact of the Windsor International Film Festival, Vincent explains why arts and culture are essential components of a thriving city.

The conversation also heats up as Vincent steps into the Windsor Iconic Challenge, helping narrow the bracket down to the final 8 most iconic people, places, or things connected to Windsor. From beloved institutions to cultural favourites, his selections help shape the next stage of the competition. If you want to see which icons survive and which fall short, you will need to tune in to the full episode.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• The story behind the growth of the Windsor International Film Festival
• Leadership lessons from building a major cultural organization
• Why trust, talent, and relationships drive long-term success
• The impact of arts and culture on Windsor’s economy and identity
• The role of networking and collaboration in community leadership
• A vision for Windsor-Essex as the region grows toward 2040

From film programming to community pride, this episode highlights why Windsor’s cultural momentum continues to grow.

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

New episodes are released weekly.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Vincent Georgie and Windsor's cultural scene
02:28 Leadership and community in Windsor
04:06 Mentors and building opportunities
06:30 Balancing personal life and leadership
07:48 The power of people and talent
12:38 Networking and community engagement
13:23 Personal branding and first impressions
15:29 Long-term collaborations and partnerships
20:00 Agility and seizing opportunities
21:20 Windsor Iconic Challenge discussion
22:11 Windsor International Film Festival programming
28:36 Taste of the region featuring Windsor Popcorn
30:44 WIFF’s role in downtown Windsor revitalization
42:20 The future of Windsor’s cultural growth
45:36 Community pride and underestimating Windsor
48:33 Responsible film programming decisions
56:36 Risk and decision-making in programming
01:02:05 Proud moments from WIFF
01:03:17 Windsor in 2040 vision