Everything Is Local

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:
A big win at a local fundraiser, including a second “basket of booze” victory, and why timing that win right before COVID turned out to be perfect.
The upcoming Sheetz vote, behind-the-scenes conversations with council leadership, and predictions on how the decision will ultimately play out.
A candid discussion about authenticity in local politics, supporting friends versus standing on principle, and why some public arguments don’t feel genuine.
City council dynamics, titles, and whether formality and “pomp and circumstance” help or hurt real community engagement.
The reality of civic involvement, how much residents actually want to engage, and whether local government visibility is a good thing, or just noise.
Youth sports, indoor soccer memories, and how little some facilities have changed over the years (for better or worse).
Trading cards, kids, and the ongoing debate over whether any of it is actually an “investment.”
Vegas stories, getting older, and how what counts as a “great trip” changes a lot over time.
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This is a great episode where Mike and Shana are joined by returning guest Matt Hildebrand, and they talk about:
The heated battle over the proposed Sheetz location, why residents and businesses are pushing back, and predictions on how the city council vote could unfold.
Transparency in local government, whether council members should publicly state their positions before voting, and frustrations with leaders avoiding accountability.
Traffic studies, development talking points, and skepticism over claims that the proposed project would actually improve congestion.
Neighborhood issues including the rejected cul-de-sac proposal, park improvements, tree removal, and how city spending priorities are being questioned.
The controversy involving an Orange City School District employee’s social media post, and a broader discussion about the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, public employment, and accountability.
Assisted dying legislation in Ohio, generational politics, and why some major public issues receive far less attention than they should.
Sharp opinions, local drama, and the kind of honest conversation that keeps listeners coming back each week.
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This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:
A local restaurant shutdown over health violations, what actually matters when it comes to food quality, and why soggy egg rolls might be the real dealbreaker.
New restaurant spots, rising dining costs, and why eating at home is starting to feel like the better (and cheaper) option.
Family dynamics, getting older, and the realization that roles start to shift when it comes to parents, money, and responsibility.
A proposed cul-de-sac plan impacting multiple Beachwood neighborhoods, why residents are frustrated, and how local decisions can directly affect daily life.
The ongoing Sheetz debate, traffic concerns, and skepticism around what “economic development” really means for the city.
The Orange School District controversy involving a staff member’s social media post, free speech, and the line between criticism and discrimination.
A broader conversation about Israel, antisemitism, public reaction, and whether institutions are overstepping when responding to personal opinions.
Global politics, U.S. foreign policy, and how media narratives shape what people focus on versus what actually matters.
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This is a great episode where Shana is joined by guest co-host Wendy Leatherberry for a special interview with county council candidate Ebony Spann, and they talk about:
Ebony’s decision to run for County Council District 11, what the role actually entails, and why oversight and accountability at the local level matter more than people realize.
Balancing campaign life with motherhood, including raising a son with autism and managing the stress and structure that comes with it.
Her journey from growing up in poverty to joining the Navy at 17, building a business, and creating a life rooted in independence and resilience.
The diversity of District 11 and how her lived experience across different economic and social environments shapes her approach to leadership.
County-level challenges like budgeting, jail and wellness center issues, and ensuring qualified people are appointed to key positions.
Mental health, economic disparity, and the reality that these issues affect every community regardless of income level.
Leadership philosophy, decision-making, and what she hopes to accomplish in her first year if elected.
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This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:
Passover traditions, family seders, and a hilarious (and honest) take on why Passover desserts need serious improvement.
The Guardians home opener, betting stories, and the simple joy of a weekend nap during baseball season.
A deep dive into the proposed new library project, including cost concerns, location changes, and whether the plan actually makes sense for the community.
The debate over adding an auditorium, potential relocation to Fairmount fields, and what could be lost in terms of recreational space.
Frustrations with city leadership, transparency, and what they see as “performative” decision-making versus real follow-through.
Youth sports, school facilities, and why strong athletic programs play a major role in building community and shaping kids.
The broader question of what makes a school district truly strong—from academics to extracurriculars to community engagement.
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