The City Centric podcast: An interview with Kent’s Mike Beder

Mike Beder, a New England native, and his family moved around Massachusetts before moving to Ohio because of his father's work in the medical equipment industry. His family eventually moved to Ohio and settled in Westlake. Beder graduated from high school in Westlake, where his parents still reside.

Beder attended Kent State University. He participated in student government activities including student body president his senior year. During this time, he also bartended at the now Robin Hood Bar. With from his former boss at Robin Hood, Beder financed the purchase of Bellie’s Deli, what is now known as Water Street Tavern.

Mike Beder is now a father of two and a serial entrepreneur focused in hospitality, retail and property rentals. Mike is the owner and partner of the Water Street Tavern, The Loft, Venice Cafe, Kent Sportswear, The Cleveland Bagel Cafe and Lake House Kitchen + Bar  snd others. He is also involved in Gold Zone Rentals, a string of multibedroom rental houses located near Kent State University’s campus.

Beder also co-director of the Crooked River Arts Festivals, a nonprofit responsible for organizing the Kent Blues Fest, Kent Beatlefest, the Kent Rocks Music Festival, and the American Roots Festival.

Tune in and learn how Mike started investing in businesses throughout Kent in the future of the community.