American Motherhood

Welcome back to the Schoolhouse Series with American Motherhood. In this episode, Yana is joined by former Ohio legislator and longtime education policy expert, Stephen Dyer, to break down what “fair school funding” really means.Stephen cuts through the noise to explain the difference between equity and equality, why students cost different amounts to educate, and how Ohio’s Fair School Funding Plan was designed to address those realities. We also tackle EdChoice, what it is, how it’s funded, and why it’s become such a point of tension for public school districts across the state.Beyond policy, this conversation gets into power and accountability. Who actually makes school funding decisions, how do these choices affect local classrooms, and why voters should be paying attention, even in high-performing districts.Stephen brings urgency and conviction, reminding us that public education depends on informed, engaged communities. His message is clear: hold our elected leaders accountable, organize, and speak up.Because school funding isn’t just policy, it’s a reflection of what we value and what we’re willing to fight for.Subscribe to the American Motherhood podcast and follow on Instagram.

In this episode of The Schoolhouse Series, we sit down with Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano to better understand one of the most debated issues in our community: property taxes.We break down how property values are determined, what a property tax bill actually represents, and how those dollars are distributed. We also explain why rising home values do not automatically translate into increased funding for schools - and why districts must still return to voters for levies.Most parents are regularly asked to vote on school funding, yet few are given a clear understanding of how the system works. American Motherhood exists to make these complex issues more accessible and easier to navigate.Episode resources: Stay apprised of the 2026 Triennial Property Value Update: FranklinCountyAuditor.com/KYHVLearn how an upcoming or recently passed levy will impact your property taxes with the Value of Your Vote website: franklincountyauditor.com/LevyEstimator

In this episode of American Motherhood, we’re joined by Dr. Christina Collins, Founder and Executive Director of Honesty for Ohio Education, a nonprofit organization focused on bringing clarity and transparency to how Ohio schools are funded.Dr. Collins offers thoughtful, grounded insight into how Ohio’s school funding system impacts real classrooms and communities, while addressing how culture wars create common misconceptions that often shape public perception. With a career dedicated to education, and as a former member of the Ohio State Board of Education, she walks us through the core questions many parents have about school funding. What do your property taxes actually fund inside a school? Why do Ohio districts rely so heavily on local taxes? What happens when the school levy fails?This episode is designed to give parents a clearer understanding of the system behind our education system so that we can confidently get engaged in the decisions that shape it.Subscribe to the American Motherhood podcast and follow on Instagram.Learn more about Honesty for Ohio Education.

Welcome to the American Motherhood Schoolhouse Series, where we break down Ohio's public school funding into clear, real-life conversations for busy moms.In this first episode, we start with the question behind nearly every school debate: Who actually pays for public schools? We explore where school funding comes from (hint: mostly local), why your property taxes are tied to schools, why neighboring districts can look so different, and why funding issues keep showing up on your ballot.We care deeply about this topic because education shapes our kids’ everyday lives, but the system behind it is rarely explained. With each episode in this series, we’ll add another layer to the complexities of school funding in Ohio so you can feel confident asking questions, engaging in your community, and advocating for what’s right for your kids.Subscribe to the American Motherhood podcast and follow on Instagram.

The decisions shaping your family’s future aren’t just happening in DC - they’re happening right here in Ohio. In this episode of American Motherhood, I’m joined by Allison Russo, Ohio House Representative and candidate for Ohio Secretary of State, to talk about what’s really at stake for families in the 2026 election.Allison shares her perspective as both a policymaker and a mom. We discuss the realities of participating in government as a mother, the barriers that exist, and what could make these spaces more accessible for working parents. She also offers practical encouragement for moms who want to get involved - whether you’re just starting to pay attention or considering running for office. We also look ahead to the role of Secretary of State and how Allison looks to rebuild trust in our electoral process.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay informed and get involved as a busy mom, join us in person for our panel event Bridging the Gap: Motherhood and Civic Life on April 18th at 10am at Westerville North High School.Subscribe to the American Motherhood podcast and follow on Instagram.Episode Resources:The Ohio Channel Statehouse News BureauOhio Capital JournalOhio House of RepresentativesOhio Senate

Kelley Stocker returns to American Motherhood, now serving as Westerville’s Vice Mayor and bringing her perspective as a high school government teacher.In this episode, Kelley offers a practical refresher on how Ohio’s government works, what’s on the ballot this year, and how the primary process functions. We break down the differences between state and federal roles, why primaries matter, and what voters need to know heading into Election Day.If you’re looking to feel informed and confident at the ballot box, this episode provides a straightforward guide to preparing for Ohio’s May 5th primary.Subscribe to the American Motherhood podcast and follow on Instagram. Episode Resources:OH Voter Registration Verification Ohio Sample Ballot Directory OH Find my District 

Welcome to the next season of American Motherhood.In this episode, Founder & Host Bethany Kungle and Managing Director Hayley Smith share the vision behind the podcast and what’s ahead in 2026. What began as a shift toward local engagement after the 2024 election has grown into a mission to make politics more accessible and relevant for busy moms.This year, you’ll hear from candidates, policy experts, community leaders, and moms across Ohio, with clear, practical conversations designed to help you feel informed and confident at the ballot box.More than a podcast, American Motherhood is building a community - inviting moms of all backgrounds to learn, engage, and help shape the future together.Join us on Saturday, April 18th for Bridging the Gap: Motherhood & Civic Life at Westerville North High School from 10-11:30am.Instagram: @americanmotherhood_podcastEmail: [email protected] more at www.AmericanMotherhood.com

Welcome back to American Motherhood, where we explore how society and politics shape motherhood in America. In this special episode, we wrap up the Westerville local election series with two familiar voices: Kelley Stocker, candidate for Westerville City Council, and Tatjana Brown, candidate for Westerville City School Board of Education. We step back to consider what it means to serve the city, and how we as voters can recognize the leadership qualities that matter most in our community.Thank you to all the candidates who helped make this election more accessible and transparent, and to everyone who’s followed the series for choosing to be informed voters. Together, we’re building a future rooted in equality, understanding, and hope - for our kids and for each other. Reach me anytime at [email protected]. Our final candidate for Westerville School Board of Education, Nafisa Jamale, was hopeful to participate but we unfortunately weren’t able to connect for an interview. I encourage you to learn more about her at njamale.com or by watching the 2025 Westerville Board of Education Candidate Forum.

In this episode of American Motherhood, we continue our Westerville local election series with our ninth candidate for City Council, John Gatiss. John describes himself as an activist, advocate, and community leader. We discuss how he hopes to balance growth with sustainability and the creative solutions he proposes to address rising costs. He also shares his perspective on transparency in local government, climate action, and community safety.This local election series is designed to make city government more accessible to you, the voters. If you find this conversation helpful, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app. You can always reach me at [email protected] if you’d like to join the conversation.Find John online at GatissforWesterville.com, Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky or email him directly at [email protected].

Today we continue our local election series with Westerville City Council candidate, Matt Erney. Matt is a husband, father of four, and longtime Westerville resident who built a career through owning two small local businesses. On the campaign trail, he’s emphasized keeping national politics out of local decisions, while focusing on families, safety, and fiscal responsibility.In this episode, we talk about how Matt’s background shapes his vision for Westerville, what he’s learned from first responders, and how he sees City Council’s role in preserving both affordability and community values. We also dig into topics like utilities, the proposed earned income tax for Westerville City Schools, and what protecting religious freedom means in a diverse and growing city.Find Matt on MattErney.com, Facebook, or email him directly at [email protected]. As mentioned in the episode: WOSU: Westerville to vote on conversation therapy ban for minors.

Today we’re continuing our local election series with Dr. Coutanya Coombs, Westerville’s Vice-Mayor and City Councilmember who’s running for re-election this fall.Coutanya is a mom and community builder with a passion for bringing people together across Westerville. In this episode, we talk about the impact she’s had in her first term and her vision moving forward - everything from walkability and transit, to supporting families, to keeping our community safe. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead locally and what she hopes residents will be able to point to at the end of her next term.My goal with this series is to make local elections more accessible for you, the voters. If you find this helpful, please share the episode with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. And if you’d like to join the conversation, you can always reach me at [email protected] Coutanya online at Coombs4Westerville.com, Facebook, or on Instagram.

We continue our local election series with Daniela Beckett, candidate for Westerville City Council. Daniela is a mom, a wife, and Director of Operations for a local business. She’s running on a “people first” approach with a focus on safe neighborhoods and affordability. Her American story begins with an immigration journey from Colombia, and you’ll hear why she and her husband chose Westerville to raise their family.While this is an election interview, it’s also two moms of young children - on opposite sides of the political spectrum - sharing a conversation about what matters most in our community. This episode brings us back to the heart of the American Motherhood podcast.This local election series is designed to make local government more accessible to you, the voters. If you find this conversation helpful, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app. You can always reach me at [email protected] if you’d like to join the conversation.Find Daniela on Facebook, DanielaBeckett.com, or email her at [email protected] the most recent information about the proposed earned income tax for our schools at Westerville City Schools.

In this episode of American Motherhood, we continue our Westerville local election series with City Council candidate Preston Stapleton. Preston shares what inspired him to run and how his experiences as both a professional and a parent shape his leadership style. We discuss his priorities-open communication, thoughtful economic growth, preserving green space, and community safety-along with his approach to challenges like traffic, fiscal responsibility, and building consensus in a growing, diverse community.This local election series is designed to make city government more accessible to you, the voters. If you find this conversation helpful, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app. You can always reach me at [email protected] if you’d like to join the conversation.Find Preston on Facebook, Instagram or email him at [email protected] the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce City Council Candidate Forum here on YouTube.

Today we’re talking with Aaron Glasgow, a current member of Westerville City Council, running for re-election this November. Aaron is an attorney who brings legal expertise, leadership, and a community-centered vision to his role on Council. In our conversation, he reflects on his path to public service, explains the responsibilities within Council, and highlights the impact of his work in Westerville. He also shares what motivates him, the leadership qualities he values, and his top priorities for our city—from casting key votes and guiding development to supporting families and honoring Westerville’s rich history.This local election series is designed to make city government more accessible to you, the voters. If you find this conversation helpful, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app. As always, you can reach me at [email protected] if you’d like to join the conversation.Find Aaron on Facebook, Instagram or on his website at AaronGlasgow.com. Email him at [email protected].

I’m excited to bring you another episode in the American Motherhood local election series, where we’ve been getting to know the candidates running for Westerville City Council and the Westerville City School Board of Education.I sat down with Anisa Liban, the current Vice President of the Westerville City School Board, running for re-election this fall. Anisa is a first-generation student, a mom who believes learning begins in the earliest years, and an entrepreneur with deep experience in nonprofits and public affairs. She brings both passion and strategy to the work of ensuring every student in our community has the opportunity to succeed. This is a thoughtful and engaging conversation, bringing a perspective to our community that I think you’ll want to hear. My goal is to make this election more accessible to all of our voters in Westerville, and your support helps make that possible. If you enjoy today’s episode, please subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app, leave a review or share it with a friend.Follow Anisa on Facebook, Instagram, or on her website at Anisaforall.com.

We continue the American Motherhood local election series with Mark Faubel, candidate for Westerville City Council. Mark is a husband, father, step-father, small business owner, and financial professional who has served our community through groups like the Chamber of Commerce, the school PTA, and the Westerville Education Foundation. We talk about why he’s running, how his experiences shape his leadership style, and what he loves most about Westerville. His campaign centers on the idea that City Council should ‘stay in its lane’—focusing on essential services, safety, and fiscal responsibility. Mark and I hold different beliefs, and you’ll hear how I aim to understand his perspective as he shares his vision for our city.If this conversation resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected]. I continue my search for a conservative mom to cohost this podcast with me so that together we can explore how politics and society shape the motherhood experience in America. Please take a moment to share this episode with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps us reach more voters and continue bridging the divide one conversation at a time. Find Mark on Facebook and on his website at FaubelforWesterville.com.Mark referenced a Fox News article on the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS) pension fund, linked here.

In this episode of American Motherhood, I talk with Angie Hamberg, Superintendent of Westerville City Schools, about her role, her vision for the future, and the district's earned income tax issue on the ballot this fall.We cover what excites her most about our schools, the challenges of recent state funding cuts, efforts to improve student achievement, and we put enrollment trends into perspective. Angie also explains the proposed 0.75% earned income tax—why this model was chosen, what it would mean for classrooms and programming, and how the district is planning for all possible outcomes.Whether you’re still undecided or already know how you’ll vote, this conversation offers valuable insight into the issues shaping our schools and the people working hard on behalf of our kids and community.If you find this episode helpful, please subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, or share it with a friend. Your support helps bring these election conversations to more voters in our community.Learn more about Westerville City Schools and find more on the tax issue at YesforWestervilleSchools.com.

In this episode we meet with Megan Reamsnyder, our Vice Chair of City Council running for re-election this November. Megan is a graduate of Westerville City Schools and The Ohio State University. She continues to have deep roots in our community through her non-profit leadership, full-time work with Otterbein University as Assistant Director of Grants and Sponsored Programs, and of course raising her kids in Westerville. We reflect on her first term, her vision for Westerville’s future, and the balance of motherhood, personal ambition, and community caregiving. If you are interested in hearing more from our candidates in this space, be sure to subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app, and if you like what you hear, please leave a review and share this episode with your friends in the community. As always, reach out at [email protected] if you would like to join the conversation. Find Megan on Facebook, at MeganReamsnyder.com and directly on the City of Westerville City Council website.

In this episode we meet with our current Westerville City School Board President, Kristy Meyer, who is up for re-election this November. Kristy is a graduate of Westerville schools and continues to have deep roots in our community as she and her husband raise their two kids in the district. With her Master’s degree in Environmental Biology, Kristy has worked for over 20 years in the non-profit environmental-conservation space and now runs her own consulting firm. We reflect on the challenges and successes of the last four years and we of course dive into her campaign to understand her continued priorities of student-centered programs, safe and welcoming environments, meeting the needs of all children, and effective budgeting and spending. You will learn what motivates Kristy and how she has become a leader for the Westerville City School District.If you are interested in hearing more from our candidates in this space, be sure to subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app, and if you like what you hear, please leave a review and share this episode with your friends in the community. As always, reach out at [email protected] if you would like to join the conversation. Find Kristy on Facebook, Instagram on on her website at KristyMeyer.com

Let's continue our Local Election Series as we prepare for a very full ballot in Westerville this fall. Today we will meet our first candidate for our Board of Education, one of 7 candidates currently running for 3 open positions. If you are interested in hearing more from our candidates in this space, be sure to subscribe to American Motherhood on your favorite podcast app and if you like what you hear, please be sure to leave a review to help us reach the rest of our community.Tatjana Brown has proudly called Westerville home for 18 years. As an independent business owner, community advocate, and a mom of three students in Westerville schools, Tatjana brings both entrepreneurial experience and deep local roots to her candidacy. Tatjana is passionate about high quality public education. If elected, she will prioritize smart budgeting, strong support for educators, and inclusive opportunities for every student.Find Tatjana on Facebook or on Instagram.Learn more about the current members and work of Westerville City School Board of Education.Reach out to us at [email protected] if you would like to join the conversation.

Today we are starting a new series surrounding our local government in Westerville as our community will be voting on four open seats for Westerville City Council this November. These next few months we will get to know all of the candidates so that we are all well informed when we go to the polls. I am excited for today’s conversation with friend, fellow parent, and candidate for Westerville City Council, Kelley Stocker. As a dedicated teacher in Westerville City Schools and parent to a 6-year-old student in the district, Kelley is a community advocate and is deeply invested in the success and well-being of local families. She serves on the executive board of the Ohio Council for the Social Studies, she is a faculty representative for the Westerville Education Association, and she is a member of the Westerville Planning Commission. Kelley is running to preserve the best of what makes Westerville special while promoting thoughtful progress that secures a strong future for all residents.Find Kelley on Facebook or directly on her website at Kelley Stocker for Westerville City Council.Learn more about the current members and work of Westerville City Council.Reach out to us at [email protected] if you would like to join the conversation.

Welcome to our friend, Becca Dolbow, joining us with a conservative perspective. In this episode of American Motherhood, we explore the disconnect between calls for a baby boom and the lack of real support for families. From paid leave and school safety to healthcare and the environment, Bethany and Becca discuss the realities of raising families in America. This space is reserved for honest, respectful conversation about building a better future, joining forces despite our political differences. The challenge today? Just listen.The invitation always stands, reach out at [email protected] to join the conversation and to support our social experiment.

A conversation with Ohio House Representative Beryl Brown Piccolantonio discussing the current landscape of education in Ohio. We take a deeper dive into the misconceptions surrounding private school vouchers, the realities of public school budget cuts, and the extreme gerrymandering in Ohio. Something has to change for our kids in Ohio, and it starts with our voices and our votes.Find Rep. Beryl Brown Piccolantonio at the Ohio House of Representatives, BerylforOhio on Instagram, and advocating around our community in Central Ohio.Tune into the discussion surrounding public school funding this week with testimony before the Ohio Senate.Most importantly, use your voice to speak up for Ohio public schools.Contact us at [email protected] if you are interested in joining the conversation.

Join me in a conversation with Nicole Marshall, CFO/Treasurer for Westerville City Schools, to bring awareness to this critical moment for Ohio public schools. The Ohio House Republicans just introduced their version of the state's biennium budget that not only reduces state funding, but forgoes the Fair School Funding Plan that was created with bipartisan support to help ensure public schools get the money they need in a fair and balanced way.Nicole Marshall has 20 years of experience working in the public finance sector and now oversees all financial and compliance related matters of the school district. Nicole grew up in a small rural community in Scioto County, Ohio with her mother and three brothers, and she credits her progress in life to public education. Knowing first hand that all children do not show up to school on equal footing, she continues to advocate for resources to ensure that every child has the support needed to receive the same opportunities for a quality education. Learn more and contact your legislators here: Nicole Marshall - Testimony before Ohio House Finance CommitteeLegislative Letter and Call ScriptThe Ohio House of Representatives, House Education CommitteeThe Ohio Senate, Education CommitteeStay current:Honesty for Ohio EducationAll In For Ohio KidsContact: [email protected]

Welcome to American Motherhood - a brand new podcast featuring authentic and genuine conversation between liberal and conservative moms. Join us as we find common ground while exploring American politics, world events, motherhood, leadership, community and gratitude. We're looking for conservative mothers to join as guests or co-hosts! If you're interested in sharing your unique perspectives on the current political landscape and how it impacts motherhood, we'd love to hear from you.Together we will open the conversation to the community and guide healthy dialogue as we navigate this journey of American Motherhood. Find American Motherhood podcast on Instagram or reach out at [email protected].