Everything Is Local

With Mike currently away with family, this is another great episode where Shana and Matt talk about:• The history and controversy surrounding Israeli settlements in the West Bank, including the Green Line, Areas A, B and C, and how the Oslo Accords divided the territory.• Why hundreds of thousands of Israelis live beyond the Green Line and the different political, religious and economic reasons behind the settlements.• The differences between Zionism and religious Zionism, and how Jewish historical and religious connections to the land influence the settlement debate.• The 1947 UN partition plan, the creation of Israel, the 1948 war and how those events shaped the borders and political realities that exist today.• The complicated history of Palestinians, Jordanians and Israelis in the region, including the question of whether the absence of a historic sovereign Palestinian state determines modern questions of sovereignty and political rights.• The role of religion and history in the conflict, including access to Jerusalem's holy sites and why the city remains so important to Jews, Christians and Muslims.• The Law of Return, the Holocaust, Jewish displacement and the different ways Israelis and Palestinians understand the history of displacement and belonging.• Whether Israel can negotiate the future while continuing to change the reality on the ground through settlement policy, and why understanding the nuance and history behind these issues is so important.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

With Mike currently away with family, this is another great episode where Shana and Matt talk about:• The ongoing debate over moving the Beachwood library and what that could mean for the school fields and students who currently use the library after school.• The problems with the Hilltop and Halcyon roundabout and how Matt finally got the confusing stop and yield signs addressed after years of pushing the issue.• Why South Woodland and Solon Road needs better pedestrian safety for people crossing to the Solon Road Circle.• Beachwood football and the excitement surrounding the team.• The conversation turns national and international as they discuss Israel, the E1 development area, the two-state solution and what E1 could mean for the future of Israel and a potential Palestinian state.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike, Shana, and Matt Hildebrand talk about:• The three property tax increases Beachwood residents are facing in 2027 and why the average homeowner could see a net increase of about $887.• Why Beachwood City Council quietly increased the city's inside mills from 1.6 to 4 mills, generating millions of dollars in additional revenue.• Beachwood's spending, the mayor's new $50,000 car, his salary increases, and whether the city really has a revenue problem or a spending problem.• The controversy surrounding the city's purchase of the Fairmount Temple property for $8 million and the city's apparent plans to classify the property as a blighted or urban renewal area.• How an urban renewal designation could allow Beachwood to divert millions of dollars in property tax revenue away from the school district and county agencies.• Why Orange Village and Cuyahoga County officials have begun pushing back against tax increment financing and other development incentives.• Questions surrounding Mayor Justin Berns, his brother's involvement in a proposed development, and why the timing of when the mayor learned about his brother's involvement has raised questions.• Why Bob Hardesty copied Beachwood City Council on his correspondence about the situation and made it clear that the school district could not support the proposal. • Questions about what was discussed during an executive session and whether the discussion was appropriate given the stated purpose of that meeting. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:• The proposed new Beachwood library and why the plan to build it on the community's main sports fields has become such a controversial issue.• Why the current library's existing meeting space, the proposed auditorium, and the nearly $30 million price tag have Mike and Shana questioning whether the project is actually necessary.• The lack of a clear plan for replacing the sports fields that would be lost if the library is built at the proposed location.• The upcoming Planning and Zoning meeting and why August 27th could be an important date for the future of the library project.• The lack of transparency surrounding the library discussions and why so many important details have been discussed in executive sessions rather than in front of the public.• A proposed TIF in Orange Village and a contentious City Council meeting where council members began questioning the administration about the financial details of the development.• Why TIFs and other development incentives deserve more scrutiny from residents and why elected officials should be willing to question their own administration.• The differences between Beachwood and Orange Village when it comes to local government, public meetings, transparency, and how elected officials handle difficult questions.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:The ongoing debate over parking at the Beachwood pool and playground, including whether residents should have priority parking and the challenges created by the new $4 million playground.Their thoughts on pickleball, the movie The Dink, and whether the sport has officially become the new “easy tennis.”The upcoming preliminary hearing in the Charlie Kirk case, questions surrounding the evidence, the videos of Tyler Robinson, and why so much of the case still doesn't seem to make sense.The JFK assassination, conspiracy theories, reasonable doubt, and why Mike thinks people have become more willing to question official versions of major events.The debate surrounding Charlie Kirk's comments, DEI, hiring based on qualifications versus representation, and whether students should have teachers who look like them.Changes in the Beachwood school district, new students coming into the district, athletics, and the importance of representation for students from different backgrounds.The COVID-19 pandemic, school shutdowns, vaccines, Anthony Fauci, his newly discussed diary, and whether there should be more accountability for the decisions made during the pandemic.The importance of questioning science, what public health officials got wrong, and whether the country learned anything that could help if another pandemic happens.Plus plenty of Cleveland Guardians baseball, local sports, family stories, and the usual political arguments and random conversations.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:Mike getting called for jury duty on a double murder case and the comments that quickly got him dismissed from the jury pool.The growing controversy surrounding proposed automated traffic cameras in Beachwood and whether they are really about safety or generating revenue.Frustration with city council transparency, emergency legislation, and how major decisions are being communicated to residents.The proposed new library project, concerns over losing baseball and softball fields, and larger questions about city planning and priorities.The Fairmount Temple TIF discussion and ongoing debates over development, taxes, and the future direction of Beachwood.Parenting middle schoolers, academic struggles, sports pressure, and learning how to handle failure and adversity.Youth baseball tournaments, soccer debates, Cleveland sports frustrations, and the chaos of raising competitive kids. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

With Mike away, this is a great episode where Shana and the crew talk about:• Amy Acton’s campaign for Ohio governor, her stance on data centers, and what voters want to hear from candidates heading into election season.• The state of Democratic politics, Sherrod Brown, campaign messaging, and the challenge of connecting national political strategies with what actually matters to local voters.• Rising grocery prices, shrinkflation, food deserts, WIC, and whether government-backed grocery stores could actually make food more affordable.• The dramatic differences in home prices across Cuyahoga County, including Beachwood, Cleveland, and East Cleveland, and what those numbers say about the communities around us.• Whether celebrities and professional athletes should be expected to use their platforms for political and social causes, plus the impact people like LeBron James and MrBeast can have through philanthropy.And, of course, there’s plenty of Everything is Local chaos along the way — from iced coffee strategies and Costco bills to teenage appetites and whatever rabbit hole the internet sends the crew down next.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:• The growing concerns surrounding The Vantage apartments, ongoing code violations, and what the City of Beachwood can (and can't) do to help residents.• The future of Beachwood Place Mall, changing retail trends, and what the loss of major department stores could mean for the city's economy.• The debate over tax increment financing (TIFs), redevelopment projects, and how public incentives should be used.• Local politics, the upcoming election, and why voters should pay close attention to the issues affecting their own communities.• Summer travel, Tim McGraw, Hersheypark, baseball season, Joey Fatone, and plenty of laughs along the way.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:• Why the proposed Fairmount Temple TIF has become one of the most controversial issues currently facing the city.• The debate surrounding Beachwood's inside mill levies, sewer frontage assessments, and how taxpayer dollars are being spent.• The University Heights home synagogue case headed to the U.S. Supreme Court and what the decision could mean for local zoning laws.• Akron Children's Hospital's plans for the former Notre Dame College campus.• Summer baseball, fireworks, city services, and why local residents should pay closer attention to local government decisions.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

Mike is back, and Episode 62 covers everything from birthday gifts and backyard chaos to one of the biggest debates happening inside the Democratic Party today.This week's conversation includes: Mike's return to the podcast after missing last week's episode, along with stories from his "bachelor week" while Nikki was away.  A heartbreaking local driving accident and a thoughtful discussion about driver's education, road safety, and the lifelong consequences of tragic mistakes.  Stories about casinos, poker, sports betting, bourbon gifts, electric vehicles, and why Mike's greatest poker victory may have been pure luck.  A deep dive into Michigan's Senate race, Chris Van Hollen's endorsement of Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic Party's growing divide over Israel, progressive politics, and how candidates navigate controversy.  A broader conversation about the future of the Democratic coalition, foreign aid, U.S.-Israel relations, and the shifting priorities of Democratic voters. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

With Mike away at a baseball tournament, Shana is joined by Matt Hildebrand for a wide-ranging discussion that goes far beyond local politics. This is a fascinating episode where they talk about:The Trump administration's new Memorandum of Understanding with Iran and whether it is a meaningful agreement or simply an agreement to keep talking.The ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, Hezbollah, and the broader implications for American foreign policy and Middle East stability.The changing relationship between the United States and Israel, the growing partisan divide surrounding support for Israel, and what the future may hold for both Israelis and Palestinians.Michigan's high-profile U.S. Senate race, Abdul El-Sayed's campaign, AIPAC's influence in Democratic primaries, and how younger voters are reshaping the political landscape.The challenges of balancing humanitarian concerns, national security, and political realities in one of the world's most complex conflicts.Subscribe for more episodes like this one! 

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:The City of Beachwood's proposed vote to re-levy charter mills and what it could cost the average homeowner each year.Why Mike believes City Council should publicly justify any tax increase and let residents vote on it instead of approving it directly.Beachwood's growing revenues compared to neighboring cities and whether the city truly needs additional tax dollars.The proposed replacement of Mayor Justin Berns' city vehicle and broader concerns about city spending priorities.Discussions about a possible new Beachwood Police Station and whether renovations would make more sense than a costly replacement.Mike and Shana's thoughts on government transparency, public accountability, and how major spending decisions should be explained to residents.A lighter conversation about Mike's upcoming trip to Columbus, Nikki and Ellie's trip to Los Angeles, and Mike's concerns about handling baseball uniform laundry while they're away.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:Jack’s eighth-grade graduation, winning Athlete of the Year, and the emotions that come with watching your kids grow up.The impact of great coaches, why Coach Perk has become a local legend, and how strong mentorship can shape kids far beyond the playing field.Travel baseball tournaments, sports-parent culture, and the friendships that develop when families spend years together on the same teams.A controversial local basketball coaching incident and a discussion about accountability, leadership, and expectations in youth sports.The Cleveland Cavaliers playoff run, the Browns, Myles Garrett, and the never-ending roller coaster of being a Cleveland sports fan.Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, celebrity culture, and what it must be like to live under a constant spotlight.Summer homework, AI-assisted cheating, and the challenges parents face trying to keep kids engaged academically during break.Sunburns, farmer’s tans, motorcycle stories, and all the little moments that make Northeast Ohio summers memorable.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana are joined by Beachwood resident Joanna Henze to talk about:The mysterious early morning shooting in Beachwood, the confusing details surrounding the incident, and why many residents feel communication from the city was lacking.The rumors, theories, and neighborhood reactions after shell casings, police tape, and investigators flooded the area.Questions about public safety, emergency alerts, and whether residents should have been warned to keep kids inside before school started.Past Beachwood incidents that residents still feel never received proper public explanation or transparency.The ongoing debate over speeding enforcement, traffic cameras, and whether Beachwood is prioritizing the wrong public safety concerns.Funny side conversations about old TV shows like Hunter, neighborhood gossip, and what actually makes a front porch great.Opening weekend at the Beachwood pool, hot dog reviews, and classic summer nostalgia. Subscribe for more episodes like this one! 

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about: Mike getting called for jury duty on a double murder case and the comments that quickly got him dismissed from the jury pool.The growing controversy surrounding proposed automated traffic cameras in Beachwood and whether they are really about safety or generating revenue.Frustration with city council transparency, emergency legislation, and how major decisions are being communicated to residents.The proposed new library project, concerns over losing baseball and softball fields, and larger questions about city planning and priorities.The Fairmount Temple TIF discussion and ongoing debates over development, taxes, and the future direction of Beachwood.Parenting middle schoolers, academic struggles, sports pressure, and learning how to handle failure and adversity.Youth baseball tournaments, soccer debates, Cleveland sports frustrations, and the chaos of raising competitive kids. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about: The disastrous Cleveland Cavaliers playoff performance, Dan Gilbert sending buses of fans to support the team, and why Cleveland sports continue to emotionally destroy everyone involved. Parenting teenage athletes, handling failure on the baseball field, body language, leadership, and the brutal reality of youth sports pressure. The difference between harmless trash talk and genuinely hurting someone’s feelings, plus the unwritten rules of teenage boy humor. Volunteer work with the Akron Woman's City Club, rebuilding community organizations after COVID, and mentoring younger women in leadership and nonprofit spaces. Gaming culture, kids cursing online, awkward parent phone calls, and trying to figure out what’s actually appropriate behavior in modern multiplayer games. Why every parent eventually becomes “the house where all the kids hang out” and the chaos that comes with it. The massive controversy surrounding proposed automated traffic cameras in Beachwood, including concerns about privacy, surveillance, revenue generation, and whether the cameras are actually about safety at all. Arguments over emergency ordinances, transparency in local government, and frustration with how city council communicates major decisions to residents. Why critics believe traffic cameras unfairly target working-class drivers and commuters while generating millions of dollars for municipalities. Speed bumps, sidewalks, school zones, and whether cities are genuinely solving safety problems or just creating new ways to collect money. Sports betting parlays, irrational Cleveland sports optimism, and how a $10 bet somehow turns into a 50-minute discussion. The Browns, Deshaun Watson controversy, separating athletes from personal behavior, and whether fans should care about the morality of professional sports stars.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaking in Cleveland, free speech, media outrage, and the debate over controversial public figures and public health messaging. Vaccines, autism claims, political “kookiness,” and whether people in positions of authority should be held to a different standard when discussing science and medicine. Music, politics, and why the hosts completely disagree on Kid Rock, Eminem, and celebrity culture in general. Mother’s Day stories, forgotten anniversaries, parenting moments, and the reality of long-term marriage. The failed Sheetz proposal, city council transparency, and why publicly taking a position on controversial votes actually matters. Unexpected praise for councilmember Pete Smith and a broader conversation about leadership, accountability, and having the courage to stake out unpopular positions. The proposed traffic camera expansion, debates over speeding enforcement, privacy concerns, and whether automated tickets are really about safety or just revenue generation. The controversial new library proposal, fears over losing youth baseball and softball fields, and questions about whether replacing a relatively modern library makes financial sense. Retail hiring struggles, bizarre no-show interviews, and what it’s like trying to staff hourly jobs in today’s economy. Hospital expansion rumors, men’s health clinics, colonoscopy stories, toenail fungus disasters, and surviving father-daughter ice skating performances.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

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. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

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. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

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. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

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. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

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. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about: Mike’s return to the show, taking “umbrage,” and revisiting past council tensions, including debates over pickleball courts, playground costs, and what it really means to “slow things down.”  Transparency in local government, scripted talking points, and frustration over how the Sheetz proposal was communicated (or not communicated) to residents.  The Fairmount Temple development, 55+ housing debate, and why no one on council seems willing to publicly challenge leadership.  Holding your own political party accountable, the “bro sphere,” Joe Rogan debates, and why independent thinking matters more than party loyalty.  Comedy, cancel culture, and the fine line between offensive jokes and context—plus a broader conversation about how people interpret humor.  Local and national politics, including county council races, Max Miller, and whether voting strategy should prioritize party control or candidate integrity.  Race, privilege, and authenticity—what it really means to “walk the walk” versus performative allyship.  Passover reflections, identity, and a thoughtful (and complicated) conversation about Israel, war, and moral responsibility. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Shana is joined by guest co-host Kari Miller while Mike is away, and they talk about: A guest-hosted episode filled with energy, friendship, and a 25-year history that brings a different dynamic to the show.  Spring break plans, parenting moments, and a hilarious deep dive into kids explaining Fortnite, Roblox, and internet culture.  Local and regional politics, including the Max Miller race, county council dynamics, and frustrations with endorsements, influence, and party strategy.  The lack of transparency, debate, and long-term planning in local government—and why more community engagement actually matters.  A bigger-picture conversation about Cleveland’s identity, regional fragmentation, and why comparing it to major cities misses the point.  The wild Afroman lawsuit story, police overreach, free speech, and how one artist turned a raid into a viral moment—and a legal win.  Pop culture, Netflix cancellations, Love Is Blind, and the launch of a new spinoff podcast concept. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana welcome their first guest in the new studio, local realtor Jeff Hoffman, and talk about: The East Side housing market, what first-time buyers can expect to pay in places like South Euclid, Lyndhurst, Shaker Heights, and Beachwood, and why limited inventory keeps prices competitive.  Why Beachwood’s lack of available homes may be pushing families to neighboring communities—and what types of housing developments could attract new residents.  The debate over luxury “A+” construction versus more attainable new housing that could help fill the city’s elementary schools with young families.  Saks Fifth Avenue closing at Beachwood Place, the uncertain future of malls, and what redevelopment of major retail spaces could look like.  Broadway shows, Playhouse Square, upcoming theater trips to New York, and a passionate recommendation for the musical Ragtime.  Cleveland sports, the Browns stadium debate, and why public funding for a new stadium continues to divide fans. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about: A weekend recap, including a charity dance event in Barberton that raised thousands for Ronald McDonald House and the start of baseball season traditions.  The announcement that Saks is closing at Beachwood Place, what it says about the department store model, and what the future of the mall could look like.  How major mall ownership groups make decisions, why Beachwood Place is still performing better than most malls, and the potential for residential or mixed-use development to replace big box retail.  Local political races, party endorsements, and the debate over how much influence political leaders should have in choosing candidates.  County council decisions, TIF debates, and why understanding the basics of public policy matters for elected officials.  Teen mall culture, public transit adventures growing up, and how things have (and haven’t) changed for kids hanging out at the mall today.  A deep dive into Love Is Blind, reality TV nostalgia, and the story of a former baseball teammate who once went on a network dating show with a million-dollar marriage prize. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about: The Ohio season of Love Is Blind, the wild premise behind the pods, and whether love really can be blind when cameras and weddings are involved. Team USA’s Olympic hockey gold, the men’s and women’s victories, locker room politics, and why the whole country actually felt united for once. Presidential medals, State of the Union reactions, Dave Smith’s takes, and the ongoing culture war conversation around immigration and identity politics. The continued Sheetz debate in Beachwood, the Porsche property “carrot,” zoning maneuvering, and whether city leaders are listening to residents and business owners. TIF negotiations, executive sessions, and the bigger question of who local government decisions are really serving. Gambling wins, playoff hopes, and why regular-season hockey just won’t hit the same after that gold medal game. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:Team USA pride, Olympic Hockey, hometown star Layla Edwards, and the controversy surrounding Eileen Gu competing for China.Why patriotism hits differently during the Olympics, and the fine line between criticism and toxic narratives. A recap of the Beachwood public hearing on Sheetz, including strong opposition from local business owners and concerns about traffic, crime, and long-term development strategy.The Porsche property “carrot,” what might happen in committee, and predictions about how the rezoning vote could unfold. The Fairmount Temple TIF debate, school funding implications, and whether elected officials are truly representing residents’ voices. Middle school dance season, parenting wins and losses, Guardians spring training, and a $10 parlay that turned into $415. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:Valentine’s Day plans (or lack thereof), steaks in the oven, and why love doesn’t need a designated calendar date.The upcoming zoning hearing for Sheetz and what’s at stake locally.The hospital property purchase at Richmond and Chagrin, what happens when major properties come off the tax rolls, and how that shifts the burden onto other property owners.TIFs, the Fairmount Temple development, and the bigger picture of how local tax decisions impact schools and county services.The Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny, culture war reactions, and what makes a truly great performance.Olympic hockey, Cavs roster moves, and whether James Harden is the missing piece.Epstein fallout, Pam Bondi’s congressional hearing moment, and what accountability should look like regardless of party. Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:Wild college stories, including an infamous $400 bar tab and the kind of decisions that become legendary years later Unfiltered memories about friendships, graduation week chaos, and the moments you definitely wouldn’t recommend repeating The sudden shift to recording from home and what it took to keep the show going How a five-year Lego City was lovingly cleared out and transformed into a brand-new podcast studio, thanks to some incredible family teamwork Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

Ep. 41 of the “Everything is Local Podcast” starts with Mike and Shana discussing the TIF Mayor Berns is proposing for the Fairmount Temple property. When a developmemt would occur without a TIF (like this Fairmount Temple property that had 9 developers respond to the RFQ, competing to be the developer chosen to develop the property), issuing a TIF doesn’t create anything that wouldn’t have happened without it and just diverts millions of property tax dollars that would go to the Beachwood Schools, Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities, cuyahoga county Health and Human services fund, Cuyahoga Community College, Cuyahoga County Public Library, and the Cleveland Metroparks.This is a great episode where Mike and Shana talk about:The idea of “Rational America” and how most people, regardless of political party, still share basic moral lines. Political extremism, recent acts of violence, and the difference between disagreement and dehumanization.Immigration, family separation, and how people can support policy while criticizing how it’s carried out.A very adult and hilarious turn into hockey fandom, podcast recommendations, and a certain TV series that is definitely not safe to watch with kids.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is Mike and Shana’s first episode back after a two-month hiatus and a studio shakeup.In this episode, they talk about:1. Getting the podcast back up and running in a new DIY space.2. Winter life updates, youth sports, and Mike’s controversial parenting moment involving sports betting.3. Local politics and the ongoing debate over a proposed Sheetz location, including planning and zoning drama, traffic concerns, and community pushback.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

This is Mike's and Shana's first podcast in over a month since the owner of the studio we were using had health issues.This is a great episode where they talk about:The upcoming city council election.Some recent and past school district administration issues and controversies.How at Monday night's Council meeting "the administration" (which is the Mayor), is asking Council to approve replacing Mayor Justin Bern's city owned 2022, with only 38,400 miles, for a new one costing $53,460.Subscribe for more episodes like this one!

Walk into a stranger's house? Check. Withhold information from city council? Check. Vilify the police chief? Check. This week on Everything is Local, we go deep on the political dumpster fire that is Cleveland Heights. Former councilwoman Josie Moore sits down to give us an insider's account of Mayor Kahlil Seren's administration, detailing the paranoia, the empowered first lady, and the shocking decision that cost the city its bond rating. We discuss the grassroots recall effort, the upcoming vote, and what happens next for a city in crisis. It's a case study in managerial incompetence and a community's fight for accountability. All that, plus we kick things off with a Beechwood football update and a mission to support Mollie Wohl and her fight with cancer through Bar Italia.Donate to Mollie's Go Fund Me Here and Visit Bar Italia to try your own Mollie's Margarita

Join us for a lively and insightful conversation with In Son Loving, a candidate for Cleveland Municipal Judge, as she shares her unique journey from a military kid with a fascinating name origin to her passion for justice and community service. We dive into the challenges of judicial elections, the importance of diverse voices on the bench, and why name recognition isn’t always enough.Joined by her campaign partner (returning guest Angel) In Sun Loving and the crew dive into grassroots campaigning, authenticity in politics, and why Sydney Sweeney’s jeans ad controversy might be overblown. Whether you're curious about local politics, love a good campaign story, or are looking for more food debates, this episode has a little bit of everything. A heartfelt thank you from the Everything is Local team goes out to In Son Loving for being such a good sport, sharing fascinating info on the judicial system, and remind us all of the importance of local elections!Follow In Son Loving's Campaign at loving4judge.com and meet her at the Verbena on West 129th August 22nd 6-8pm.

It’s finally August, and the weather is (mercifully) less scorching—but the drama in local politics is heating up. In this episode, we unpack:The Sun vs. Age 40+: Why does the sun feel like kryptonite now? Floppy hats, umbrellas at baseball games, and the tragic downfall of sunscreen loyalty.Beachwood’s Apartment Boom: Do 451 new one-bedrooms actually attract young families—or just more shade-seeking residents? Plus, the shady ties between developers and former city employees.Cleveland Heights’ Unhinged Saga: A mayor’s wife walks into a stranger’s house (yes, really), a police chief gets thrown under the bus, and recall efforts spiral into chaos.A Wild Solution: What if Beachwood built senior housing in Chagrin Highlands instead of bulldozing office space? (Spoiler: It makes too much sense to happen.)Tune in for rants, revelations, and a surprise cameo from a Safety Town counselor who may or may not have finished her homework.Like, subscribe, and pray for cloud cover.

This week, Mike and Shana dive into Beachwood’s contentious housing policies after Councilman Pete Smith’s eyebrow-raising claim that one-bedroom apartments attract young families—because "young people meet each other and make families." Spoiler: Mike isn’t buying it. The duo breaks down why rezoning for 55+ communities and studio-heavy developments contradicts the city’s stated goal of attracting young families, especially when existing data shows almost zero examples of singles-turned-families staying in Beachwood long-term.Plus, Ethan shares some stories from his Niagara Falls vacation and Mike and Shana talk about their double date, Tune in for an extra fun episode of Everything is Local and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

In this episode of Everything is Local, we're celebrating Shana’s newfound age (and hopefully wisdom)! Mike and Shana discuss her boy-free birthday bash before moving on to the local news. The duo then dive deeper into Pete Smith’s emphasis on the importance of bringing young families into Beachwood. They discuss what these new residences might cost the families in question, as well as the (sometimes oversold) merits of living in Beachwood. Also in local news, Shana provides an update on the fight for teacher retention in our local schools, listen in to hear the details!If you are looking for the latest in Beachwood news served with a dash of levity and slice of life discussions, you won’t want to miss this episode of your favorite show! As always, please like, subscribe, and rate us five stars. It means a lot!

In this lively episode, Mike and Shana dive into a whirlwind of topics, from solo parenting adventures ("Boys' Week") to heated local politics—including candid takes on city council endorsements, social media rabble-rousing, and the surprising bombshells from a recent Democratic Club meeting. They also debate the merits of Disney trips (are they worth the hype or an overpriced headache?), share a wild golf-cart-in-a-storm story, and rave about Two Brothers Pizza’s wings. Plus, a mysterious fire alarm brings Beachwood’s finest to Mike’s door—with interesting results. Tune in for laughs, rants, and a peek into the chaos of midlife parenting and small-town politics.

In this triumphant return of Everything is Local, we unpack the whirlwind of current events—from fiery local politics and heated school funding debates to national protests and the ever-shifting media landscape. We explore the complexities of democracy, the highs and lows of community leadership, and the cultural changes redefining our world.But it’s not all serious—get the inside scoop on recent escapades, including a wild baseball tournament, a memorable trip to Cincinnati, and some laugh-out-loud updates on what’s coming next. Whether you're here for the political deep dive, the sports stories, or just some great conversation, this episode has it all. Tune in as we navigate the chaos together—with insight, humor, and a few surprises along the way!

In this episode of Everything is Local, join Mike (now with one less tooth) and Shana as we follow up on the explosive reception of their recent episode with Missy. We dive into recent school district negotiations, the surprising $27 million settlement, audience feedback, and the importance of standing by your principles—especially in politics and education. Plus, Shana shares his excitement for the Savannah Bananas game, and we clear the air on Mike's fight song blunder.Tune in for a classic Mike and Shana episode full of local politics, laughter, and the occasional one-liner from Ethan. Please reach out to us with your thoughts, we'd love to open the dialogue!

In this special episode, Mike and Shana sit down with Missy, a dedicated educator with 16 years at Beechwood High School, to shed light on the ongoing negotiations surrounding the district’s teacher contract. They explore the challenges of salary schedules, retention of young teachers, and the importance of community support for educators. Plus, insights into teaching history in a divided era, the significance of personal relationships in education, and what the community can do to help make Beachwood an even better place for teachers and students alike. Tune in for an honest conversation about education, community engagement, and the future of our schools.

In this episode, we unpack a whirlwind week filled with local politics, legal controversies, and reflections on leadership and accountability. From the Beechwood Schools Foundation scholarships to the Cleveland Heights body cam controversy, we explore how law, politics, and integrity intersect—and what it takes to hold those in power accountable. Join us for candid conversations, sharp insights, and a look at how community leaders' decisions ripple through our lives. Plus, a special nod to the importance of bravery and transparency in public service. Tune in for an unfiltered (and slightly buzzed) discussion you won’t want to miss!

Join us for a candid and chaotic deep dive into Cleveland's ongoing stadium saga, city budgeting nightmares, and the bizarre adventures with raccoons in the attic. We vent about the city’s reckless spending, the potential impact of a new stadium in Brook Park, and the true cost of infrastructure projects. Plus, personal stories about mice, raccoons, and the quest for the perfect date night. Whether you're a local resident or just love a good rant, this episode is packed with honest opinions, local politics, and a little bit of everything—because sometimes, life in Cleveland is just that wild.

In this episode, we dive into a mix of candid stories—from navigating dental pain and the addictive grip of opioids, to the surprising world of high fashion at the Met Gala, and the intricacies of local politics and community events. Join us as we discuss the realities of pain management, reflect on the legacy of Justice Souter, share family updates, and poke fun at the quirks of our town’s shred day. It's a little bit of nothing, a lot of everything—perfect for those who enjoy honest conversations, humor, and a touch of chaos.Will Mike ever get his grill? You’ll have to tune in next week to find out!

Welcome back to Everything is Local! Join us as we dive deep into Beachwood's controversial purchase and proposed development of the Fairmount Temple property, including revelations from public records requests, concerns about density, and the debate over TIFs. Plus, we tackle the surprisingly heated topic of deer management in the city, from culling to sterilization, and share some personal (and potentially embarrassing) stories along the way. Mike and Shana bring on Matt Hildebrand for a classic locally sourced episode!

Hosts Shana and Mike did some Podcast-based research this week! Our intrepid hosts take a critical look at Isreal-Palestine debate featured on Joe Rogan. Tune in as they explore themes of nuance, responsibility, and the importance of allowing divergent perspectives in the wake of societal contention.Our hosts grapple with the controversial figures and ideas presented in modern media, highlighting insightful moments from podcasts featuring comedians-turned-commentators like Dave Smith and Andrew Schultz. They discuss the power of protest, the impact of historical narratives, and the necessity for civil dialogue amidst rising tensions even if ultimately, we can't all agree.Everything is Local Producer Ethan joins the conversation as they navigate a thought-provoking discussion filled with laughter, frustration, and the desire for understanding in a rapidly changing world. Don’t miss their reflections on community feedback and the courage it takes to voice unpopular opinions!

Welcome to a special episode of Everything is Local! This week, Mike and Shana shine a spotlight on the incredible work of Dr. Matt Goldschmidt, a renowned plastic surgeon and passionate do-gooder. He shares his inspiring journey of how he combines his medical expertise with a heartfelt mission to improve the lives of children with cleft palates in underserved communities around the world.Listen in as Dr. Goldschmidt discusses his nonprofit organization, Beautiful Faces, and the annual charity hockey tournament he organizes with Blair Arbuckle to fund life-changing surgeries in countries with limited medical resources. Discover the profound impact these surgeries have on not just the physical well-being of his young patients, but also their social acceptance and quality of life.We’ll also recount some enlightening personal experiences from our co-hosts' own adventures in both the passover kitchen and the unpredictability of American law enforcement. As we navigate through stories of family, faith, and compassion, you’ll find a common thread: the power of community and the ways we can all contribute to making a difference.Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, laughter, and a call to action. Help us spread the message of kindness and charity, and discover how you can make a positive impact in the lives of those who truly need it.Donate now and make a difference in your own community and beyond!How to Help PayPal = @BFcharityVenmo = @BFcharityInstagram = @beautifulfacescharity Visit the website!

Welcome back to Everything is Local, in this episode your hosts Mike and Shana dive into Pepper Pike with new insights and fresh information. This week, we unpack the hot-button issues surrounding the proposed charter amendments that have divided the community with special guest John Currid.Join Mike, Shana, and John as they discuss the implications of the recent charter proposals, focusing on accountability, the role of the mayor, and the political processes that seem to prioritize speed over proper procedure. Tune in as we share candid thoughts on the dynamics of local politics, the need for transparency, and community involvement.Don’t miss this engaging conversation that touches on everything from the power struggle within council chambers to the nuances of community sentiment! Whether you’re a Pepper Pike resident or just interested in local governance, this episode is a must-listen. Remember to like, share, and subscribe for more discussions like this one!

Welcome back to Everything is Local! Join Mike and Shana for a return-to-format as your co-hosts sift through the contrasting opinions surrounding city governance, and explore the real-life implications for everyday residents. We’ll discuss how small-town drama can affect the community, from sidewalk proposals, to budget mismanagement, while emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and keeping oneself in the loop!But it's not all serious talk! Mike reminisces on his recent trip to Arizona where he and his family were able to get in some spring training. We'll also preview exciting upcoming events, including a fundraising night at the races for athletic boosters!Tune in to find out how we can help our community navigate change, and dream of the upcoming spring weather with talk of family vacations and good ol’ fashioned sports! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation!