Dublin's Real Estate Edge: A Conversation with Columbus REALTORS CEO
'In a word, our real estate market is wonky' says Brent Swander, CEO of Columbus Realtors and proud Dublin resident. From eye-popping statistics to practical advice for buyers and sellers, this episode delivers valuable insights for anyone interested in our community's real estate landscape.Swander reveals surprising data about Dublin's position in the regional market, including our average home price of $642,000, our remarkable 34.8% condo market share (third highest in the region), and what makes our community so desirable. "I came to Dublin kicking and screaming," Swander confesses, "but now to get me out of Dublin, I will go kicking and screaming." His personal transformation mirrors what many residents discover – once you experience Dublin's exceptional quality of life, it's hard to imagine living anywhere else.The conversation with Lindsay and Bruce also takes a fascinating turn as Swander shares stories from his previous career in politics, working in the President George W. Bush White House and on presidential campaigns – including a memorable encounter involving frosted tips, braces and a presidential quip. Whether you're considering buying or selling property, curious about Dublin's economic health, or simply want to understand the forces shaping our community, this episode delivers valuable insights wrapped in engaging conversation. Listen now and discover why Dublin's real estate market defies conventional wisdom while consistently delivering exceptional value.
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Kansas and 38 Special will rock July 4th in Dublin. Kansas' lead singer wants you there!
Ronnie Platt's journey to becoming the lead vocalist of rock legends Kansas defies conventional music industry narratives. At 52, after decades behind the wheel of a Chicago delivery truck, he stepped into the spotlight previously occupied by one of rock's most distinctive voices, Steve Walsh. "Better late than never," he quips with characteristic humility that runs throughout his conversation with Lindsay and Bruce.Now celebrating eleven years with the band, Platt opens up about the influences that shaped his powerful vocal style—Steve Walsh, Steve Perry, and Lou Gramm—analyzing their techniques and selecting vocalists whose approach matched his physical capabilities. The conversation takes a more serious turn as Platt details his recent battle with thyroid cancer, from discovery to diagnosis to his triumphant return to the stage just one month after surgery. His concern extended beyond his health to the entire Kansas organization—band members, crew, venues, and support staff who would be affected by his absence from touring. This profound sense of responsibility, combined with extraordinary medical care, fueled his remarkably swift recovery.It's only April but it's time to get excited about July 4th! Kansas and 38 Special will headline this year's Independence Day celebration, culminating in the city's spectacular fireworks display. Community Events Director Alison LeRoy also joins to share details about the full day of festivities and the upcoming table reservation process. It promises to be another rockin' unforgettable Fourth of July in the city we love!
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Recycling Revolution: Rumpke’s Mission to Keep Expanding Your Earth-Friendly Options
Ever wondered what actually happens to your recycling after it leaves your curb? Amanda Pratt, Senior VP of Communications at Rumpke, pulls back the curtain on recycling operations at North America's largest and most technologically advanced recycling facility, which is right here in Columbus, Ohio.The Rumpke Recycling and Resource Center, a $106 million investment that opened in 2024, processes an astonishing 60-70 tons of recyclables per hour using AI-powered optical scanners, advanced sorting technology, and a system designed to maximize recovery. The facility has expanded what Central Ohioans can recycle and now accepts those frustrating plastic clamshell containers alongside yogurt tubs, plastic cups and even greasy pizza boxes.What makes this story particularly powerful is the economic impact. Approximately 80% of materials collected stay right here in Ohio, supplying manufacturers that create new products and jobs. Beyond the industrial operation, Rumpke has partnered with COSI and OSU to create an immersive education center where visitors experience the complete lifecycle of recyclables—from consumer purchasing decisions to final products. School groups and community members can tour the facility and see firsthand how their recycling efforts make a difference.Lindsay and Bruce also talk with Amanda about common recycling myths and answer resident questions about everything from aluminum foil to Amazon packaging. With Dublin's waste diversion rate nearly 20% higher than the national average, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint not just for April's Earth Month but any month!
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Snails, River Boxes, and Iceland: the artistic journey of the Dublin Arts Council
The artistic heart of Dublin beats strongly through two remarkable conversations showcasing how creativity connects communities both locally and globally.Dr. David Guion, retiring Executive Director of the Dublin Arts Council, reflects on transforming Dublin into a community with more than 70 public art installations ranging from large-scale commissioned works to interactive river boxes – artist-created vessels that combine geocaching with artistic treasure hunts. With a philosophy that "we do things with the community instead of for the community," David has fostered participatory experiences that encourage public dialogue with artists."Public art is controversial," he acknowledges candidly. "It comes down to whether someone likes or doesn't like something." This honesty about art's divisive nature hasn't deterred the Council but rather inspired them to create programming that fosters curiosity and creative exploration. From cultivating international relationships in Japan to developing Dublin's first Public Art Master Plan, David leaves a legacy of artistic growth that spans generations.Writer Erin Boggs introduces us to "A Journey of Iceland - from Darkness to Light," an immersive exhibition at the Dublin Arts Council through April 25th. This multisensory experience combines Boggs' poetry with artwork by Icelandic artist Einar Orn and music by Kaktus Einarsson. The exhibition has gained impressive recognition, along with Erin's book appearing in Oscar nominee gift bags! Dublin residents can purchase signed copies at the Arts Council, complete with QR codes to download the music for a full immersive experience at home.Whether exploring Dublin's river boxes with your family or experiencing Iceland through poetry and art, these creative endeavors remind us how art transcends cultural and geographic boundaries. Discover these artistic treasures and more by visiting in person or DublinArts.org today!
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Dublin's strong financial standing creates new opportunities and dynamic updates for residents
Did you know Dubin is the only city in the U.S. — the only one — with a AAA credit rating from four different evaluating services? Hopefully, this impressive accolade gives you, our residents, peace of mind our City leaders are not only thoughtful managers of your tax dollars but excellent practitioners in putting those dollars to laser-efficient use. Earlier this month, our leaders gathered at Bridge Park for a 'State of the City' presentation in front of hundreds of people. City Manager Megan O'Callaghan led the discussion and covered a dynamic range of topics: $325 million in capital improvements in the next five years, expanding fiber internet to your home, refreshes to the Dublin Community Recreation Center and Metro Center, plus creating a top-tier athletic complex. As Megan put it, 'Our success is built on the strength of our relationships with residents, regional leaders and entrepreneurs. Together we are not just keeping pace with change. We are shaping it.' This episode is the audio version of that presentation. Listen and get genuinely excited because the state of our city is strong!
The City of Dublin, Ohio is home to nearly 50,000 residents and more than 4,000 businesses at the forefront of technological innovations and advancements. Our City is full of energetic problem-solvers who make a difference and provide a broad source of expertise and talent. Join Dublin City leaders and passionate Dublin residents as we connect conversations from street to street, neighbor to neighbor and business to business. Together, we'll link our commonalties, our shared experiences, and highlight Dublin programs and services that support us all. Welcome to the Link Ahead podcast!
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