Show Notes
In Episode 6, we sit down with Aaron Cunningham, a graduate of Shawnee High School who fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a firefighter. After a lifetime of public service, Aaron is now focused on giving back to his community as a candidate for the Elida School Board. He talks about his family, his commitment to the community, and the issues currently facing the Elida School District. Aaron shares how growing up in Shawnee and raising a family in Elida has shaped his perspective on education, communication, and leadership. He also reflects on lessons learned through years in the fire department — lessons about teamwork, trust, and accountability that he believes are essential for the board to move forward. T his conversation offers a thoughtful look at how service, both personal and professional, can help strengthen our schools and our community. Originally posted 10/28/2025 Local Exchange — where Northwest Ohio comes to talk. #LocalExchange #ElidaSchools #SchoolBoard #CommunityLeadership #NorthwestOhio
More from The Local Exchange Podcast
Adam Preston, treasurer of the Vote No on Cable Rd campaign, joins us to break down the November ballot issue facing Lima voters. We cover who gets to vote, what the project actually proposes (center median, lane changes, sidewalks), the city’s crash data and safety argument, the $6+ million in outside funding, business concerns along the corridor, and what alternatives could look like if the current plan is rejected. A straightforward look at one of the biggest local issues on the ballot this fall.
Justin Davis has spent his life playing, promoting, and spreading music. From performing as Davis Unplugged across Northwest Ohio to organizing community events, he has dedicated himself to keeping live music alive and accessible. In this episode of The Local Exchange, we sit down with Justin to talk about the journey that brought him here, from his roots in the Delphos/Ottoville area and time in the Air Force to his ongoing passion for music. We also dive into why he is launching the Loud Music Fest in Delphos, Ohio on August 7, 2027, how the idea has evolved, and his mission to help the next generation discover and fall in love with music. Whether you are a longtime local music fan or just hearing about the festival for the first time, this conversation highlights the heart behind the event and the people working to make it happen. Follow Justin and stay updated on the Loud Music Fest and Davis Unplugged: https://www.facebook.com/LoudMusicFestOhio #LocalExchange #JustinDavis #LoudMusicFest #DelphosOhio #DavisUnplugged #LiveMusic #NorthwestOhio
Episode 31: Carl Taylor – Lima Bean Chorus Carl Taylor has spent most of his life in barbershop and men’s singing groups and picked up multiple contest wins along the way. He talks about the Lima Beane Chorus, the Lima chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society that has been together since 1946, four-part harmony, life on the risers, and what it takes to keep that sound alive. He also my first guest to perform on my podcast!
Jeff Givan is a first-time candidate for the Ohio House in District 78, which covers Allen County and part of northern Auglaize County. He is a co-founder of the Lima Pride Alliance. We talk about how the Ohio House works, school funding, healthcare, and why he decided to run. https://jeffgivan4ohio.com/ https://www.facebook.com/JeffGivan4ohio
Matt is back on The Local Exchange. We start with a little Shawnee football, then get into recent issues around Shawnee Schools. After that we talk through where things stand after the first round of the Chief Austin Miller hearing. The Local Exchange Where Northwest Ohio Comes to Talk