Show Notes
Episode 27: Joe Wassink – LifeWise, Faith, and the Lifewise 5K In this episode of The Local Exchange, Jon sits down with Joe Wassink of Lima, Ohio. Joe serves with ACTS / TV44 and has been deeply involved with LifeWise Academy in Allen County for years. We talk about the upcoming Lifewise 5K and 1K Fun Run, how LifeWise first got started in the area, and what the program actually looks like for local families and schools. Joe also shares openly about his faith, his family, and his love for the Lord, along with his role at TV44 and his enjoyment of running - including participating in the very event he helps organize. Whether you’re curious about LifeWise, follow local community efforts, or just enjoy a conversation about faith and service in Northwest Ohio, this episode gives a clear and personal look at the work Joe and others are doing.
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