Common process pitfalls that can tank a deal
Brady Ware’s Robert W. Evans on the hidden realities of an M&A deal and how both sellers and buyers can insulate themselves from the worst outcomes.
Where does wealth silently leak away?
The 4:8 Group’s Bob Bove on why wealth management is best handled through a synchronized approach where professionals across disciplines operate under unified leadership.
Optimizing efficiency through strategic print management
Blue Technologies’ Dale Bielek on how a structured print strategy eliminates hidden expenditures, recaptures capital and streamlines workflows.
The importance of building and aligning key relationships when growing
First Federal Lakewood’s Mitch Duale on the importance of having a trusted team that helps guide financial, legal, operational and strategic decisions.
Northeast Ohio Deal Activity, July 2026: Seller valuation expectations vs. buyer discipline

In May 2026, the Cleveland M&A market saw continued expansion, with year-over-year deal volume increasing by 40 percent relative to the same period in the previous year.
Leveraging operational volatility to drive strategic agility
Our Lady of the Wayside’s Terry Davis on how converting operational disruption into a strategic advantage can determine long-term market viability.
Why strategy must precede technology in the race to incorporate AI
Blue Technologies’ Lauren Hanna on the critical pathways to achieving operational readiness and how organizations can effectively mitigate risks while maximizing their return on their AI investment.
The strategic power of unified brand protection
Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs’ Dominic Frisina and Andrew Stebbins on transitioning from reactive firefighting to a holistic, technology-driven defense strategy against brand threats that ensures long-term market resilience.
Optimizing working capital through automated treasury integration
S&T Bank’s Josh Fogle on how to navigate automated treasury integration, overcome internal resistance and leverage specific treasury products to maintain a competitive edge.
Meet the 2026 Smart Women Award honorees

The 2026 Smart Women honoree class represents savvy women leaders who leverage unique strengths to drive change, build community and revolutionize the status quo.