Show Notes
A long time ago in a podcast studio not too far away, Jon sat down with Marc Bowker - Lima’s own comic-book store owner, certified Heroic Coach, and real-life superhero of downtown revitalization. In this epic crossover, Marc steps out from behind the counter at Alter Ego Comics (the beloved downtown Lima institution he’s run since 2005) to talk about building a business that’s survived recessions, pandemics, and plenty of real-world challenges. From his days as Director of Communications at the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce to going all-in on entrepreneurship, Marc shares the origin story of turning a side-hustle comic passion into a 20-year local landmark. We dive into how political decisions ripple straight into small businesses like Alter Ego - tariffs, regulations, and the daily realities of running a Main Street shop. Marc also opens up about his personal journey with anxiety, depression, OCD, and his 2016 nervous breakdown - and how Stoic wisdom, a superhero mindset, and the Heroic coaching framework helped him rewrite his story and now helps others do the same. Whether you’re a comic fan, a small business owner, or someone working on your own mental health and personal growth, this is one of the most inspiring conversations yet. Tune in for great stories, real talk, and practical wisdom you can actually use. The Force is strong with this one. Subscribe to the Local Exchange Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheLocalExchange Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033e39gbtqYgIrGfz1BWB1?si=cd24163217d148e3 iHeartMedia: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-local-exchange-podcast-333142184 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-local-exchange-podcast/id1896525502
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