LorainCounty.com Insights

In episode 90 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Patricia O’Brien, Executive Director of The Stocker Foundation.

Patty provides an in-depth overview of the foundation's history, mission, and grant-making strategies.

Established in 1979 by Beth K. Stocker and her daughters, the Stocker Foundation continues a legacy of gratitude-driven philanthropy.

She discusses the foundation’s transition from broad-based giving to a focused approach on literacy and STEAM education.

She highlights significant milestones, including the success of the Lorain County Imagination Library, and elaborates on the collaborative efforts with schools, nonprofits, and other funders.

Patty also shares personal insights into her role, what makes an effective philanthropist, and her journey within the organization.

Listeners can learn about the foundation’s grant cycle, its commitment to multi-generational involvement, and the metrics used to define success in their philanthropic endeavors.

The Evolution and Impact of the Stocker Foundation

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome

00:32 Meet Patty O'Brien: Executive Director of the Stocker Foundation

02:07 The Legacy and Evolution of the Stocker Foundation

04:58 Strategic Focus on Literacy and STEAM Education

05:52 Funding and Financials of the Stocker Foundation

15:55 Grant Making Process and Community Impact

20:47 Collaboration and Community Engagement

25:13 Personal Journey and Reflections of Patty O'Brien

33:27 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

In episode 89 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Mark Adams, the Health Commissioner of the Lorain County Public Health Department. 

Mark provides a detailed overview of the department's various divisions, such as community health, environmental health, and emergency preparedness. 

He shares insights into his leadership philosophy, the importance of community engagement, and the unique health challenges and opportunities present in Lorain County. 

Mark also discusses the department's approach to handling widespread misinformation and the role of technology in enhancing public health services. 

The episode emphasizes the collaborative nature of health delivery ecosystems and highlights the dedication of public health professionals in improving community wellness.

Public Health in Lorain County: An In-Depth Look with Health Commissioner Mark Adams

00:00 Introduction to Public Health in Ohio

00:13 Episode 89: LorainCounty.com Insights Podcast

00:33 Guest Introduction: Mark Adams

01:18 The Role and Services of Lorain County Public Health

01:52 Mark Adams' Journey and Leadership

02:02 Overview of Health Divisions and Services

04:18 Community Health Division

06:10 Environmental Health Division

07:54 Emergency Preparedness and Epidemiology

08:58 Population Health Division

09:41 WIC Division

10:26 Internal Administration and Support

11:22 Community Engagement and Health Education

12:51 Health Delivery Ecosystem and Partnerships

14:35 Technology and Public Health

15:46 Current Health Trends and Policy Changes

18:03 Public Health Under Attack

19:25 Current Health Challenges in Lorain County

20:42 Building Trust in the Community

21:37 Measuring Success in Public Health

23:14 A Personal Journey into Public Health

27:39 Innovative Public Health Initiatives

29:23 Leadership Philosophy and Style

31:22 Hobbies and Personal Interests

32:16 Connecting with Lorain County Public Health

33:14 Conclusion and Podcast Information

In episode 88 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Dave Blevins, Director of the Lorain County Workforce Development Agency.

Dave discusses the agency's role in serving various segments of the population, including youth, adults, dislocated workers, and veterans. 

He highlights the importance of building relationships with local employers to forecast future workforce needs and describes how the agency supports job seekers in acquiring the necessary skills and certifications. 

Dave delves into OhioMeansJobs and the Work Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and its objectives, emphasizing the importance of engaging the next generation of workers through innovative communication strategies. 

He also shares his journey to becoming the director, the challenges faced due to budget cuts, and his vision for the future of workforce development in Lorain County. 

The episode ends with information on upcoming events and opportunities for local job seekers, as well as ways to connect with the agency.

Lorain County Workforce Development: Insights and Innovations with Dave Blevins

00:00 Introduction and Job Market Overview

00:14 Podcast Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

00:35 Guest Introduction: Dave Blevins

01:03 Dave Blevins' Background and Workforce Development

02:02 Role and Services of the Workforce Development Agency

02:44 Supporting Local Employers

03:31 Youth Programs and Challenges

03:50 Ohio Means Jobs and Workforce Development Law

04:52 Communication Challenges with Youth

06:44 Success Stories and Partnerships

07:47 Future Workforce Opportunities and Challenges

09:01 Measuring Success and Data Management

10:02 Community Collaboration

10:47 Adapting to Technological Changes

12:33 Dave Blevins' Personal Background

14:48 Budget Cuts and Their Impact

16:24 Proudest Accomplishments and Future Goals

19:08 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

20:16 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 87 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Lorain County Commissioner, Jeff Riddell.

He discusses his vision for the county's future, key initiatives, and the importance of strategic planning. 

He shares insights into economic development efforts, including the ambitious 1000-acre mega-site project aimed at revitalizing local manufacturing. 

Commissioner Riddell highlights the importance of government accountability, collaboration with schools and community partners, and the need for a new county jail. 

The conversation also explores his leadership style, personal background, and the challenges and opportunities facing Lorain County.

Lorain County Commissioner Jeff Riddell on Strategic Plans, Economic Development, and Community Growth

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:35 Meet Commissioner Jeff Riddell

01:58 Lorain County's Unique Character

03:07 Motivations and Priorities

03:56 Strategic Planning and Economic Development

06:00 Mega Site Project and Community Impact

10:24 Education and Workforce Development

11:24 Government Accountability and Transparency

12:38 Public Safety Initiatives

16:45 Departmental Highlights and Collaborations

19:47 Challenges and Opportunities for Lorain County

22:52 Commissioner Riddell's Background and Leadership

26:30 Personal Interests and Closing Remarks

In episode 86 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Michael Shaikh, author of “The Last Sweet Bite”.

He discusses his journey from growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, to documenting human rights abuses in conflict zones like Afghanistan and Myanmar. 

Michael talks about how his multicultural upbringing and personal experiences shaped his career in human rights. 

He shares poignant stories about the intersection of food, culture, and violence, highlighting how traditional recipes can be both a form of cultural preservation and an act of defiance against conflict. 

Michael also delves into the challenges and motivations behind his work, the importance of community, and how his new book aims to make these global issues relatable through the universal language of food. 

The episode concludes with a look at what's next for Michael and some recommendations for exploring diverse cuisines in the Greater Cleveland area.

Preserving Culture through Cuisine: A Journey with Author Michael Shaikh

00:00 Introduction and Episode Kickoff

00:33 Introducing Michael Shaikh and His Journey

01:43 Michael's Early Life and Career Highlights

04:20 Human Rights Work and Culinary Heritage

06:55 Impact of Lake Ridge

08:34 The Last Sweet Bite: Book Discussion

17:35 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

22:15 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

In episode 85 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Superintendent Dr. Jeff Graham of Lorain City Schools.

He discusses his background, the character of the school district, and the priorities and initiatives currently in focus, including tackling chronic absenteeism. 

Superintendent Graham highlights the importance of creating a nurturing and safe school environment, the challenges of urban schooling, the improvements made in arts and STEAM programs, and the success of personalized education. 

He also emphasizes the role of technology and AI in education, the importance of community partnerships, and his collaborative leadership style. 

Moreover, Superintendent Graham shares personal anecdotes that reflect his deep connection to the community and his commitment to the district's success.

In-Depth Conversation with Dr. Jeff Graham: Superintendent of Lorain City Schools

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Sponsors

00:35 Meet Superintendent Dr. Jeff Graham: Background and Vision

01:08 Personal Connection to Lorain City Schools

04:08 Challenges and Initiatives in Lorain City Schools

06:13 Opportunities and Achievements in Education

07:58 Community and Teacher Support

11:28 Urban School District Challenges

14:03 The Role of Technology in Education

15:52 School Safety and Security

17:16 Superintendent Graham's Journey and Leadership

19:52 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In episode 84 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Tammy Bertrand, Executive Director of Family Planning Services.

Tammy provides an overview of their organization, which has been serving the community since 1969.

She discusses the wide range of services they offer, such as birth control options, cancer screenings, and overall physical exams, particularly for underserved populations. 

Tammy highlights the critical gaps in healthcare they are addressing, including the lack of insurance and the challenge of accessing affordable healthcare. 

She details their collaboration with various community partners and the significant impact Title 10 funding has on their operations. 

Tammy also shares the organization's success stories and her personal journey to her current role.

Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of community support and volunteer involvement. 

Lastly, Tammy sheds light on the biggest challenges and opportunities facing family planning services today.

Exploring Family Planning Services of Lorain County with Tammy Bertrand

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:37 Meet Tammy Bertrand: Executive Director of Family Planning Services

02:25 Services Offered by Family Planning

03:46 Addressing Healthcare Gaps and Community Impact

04:42 Community Partnerships and Funding

07:20 Volunteer Contributions and Challenges

10:07 Personal Stories and Future Vision

12:52 Tammy Bertrand's Background and Leadership

16:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 83 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Paul Baumgartner, Executive Director of the Lorain County Free Clinic. 

Paul provides an insightful overview of the clinic's history, services, and mission. 

The clinic has evolved to serve uninsured and underinsured individuals in Northern Ohio. 

Paul discusses the various healthcare services offered, from primary care to specialty and diagnostic services, made possible through collaboration with local hospital systems. 

He highlights the importance of volunteer medical providers and the clinic’s funding sources, which include community donations and grants. 

Paul also shares impactful stories illustrating the clinic’s role in the community and emphasizes the importance of partnerships and proactive healthcare access.

The Impact and Mission of Lorain County Free Clinic with Paul Baumgartner

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:33 Guest Introduction: Paul Baumgartner

01:46 History and Mission of Lorain County Free Clinic

02:50 Services Provided by the Free Clinic

05:50 Patient Stories and Community Impact

07:07 Collaborations and Partnerships

09:39 Funding and Volunteer Involvement

12:19 Challenges and Future Goals

13:47 Paul Baumgartner's Background and Leadership

19:44 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 82 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Superintendent Dr. Glenn Faircloth and Treasurer and CFO, Cory Thompson of Lorain County Joint Vocational School (JVS).

They provide a deep dive into the unique characteristics, priorities, and achievements of the JVS. 

They discuss the critical role JVS plays in workforce development, collaboration with local industries, and initiatives to provide fee-free education. 

They highlight the importance of modernizing facilities, the value of empowering educators, and the innovative programs for both high school and adult learners. 

The conversation also covers the importance of school safety, the impact of technology and AI in education, and the benefits of their diverse and inclusive environment.

Personal reflections from both leaders shed light on their dedication to student success and community engagement.

Insights from Lorain County JVS: Empowering Students and the Community through Career Technical Education

00:00 Introduction to Lorain County JVS

01:37 Meet the Leadership Team

02:06 Character and Mission of Lorain County JVS

02:52 Key Priorities and Initiatives

05:16 Financial and Operational Challenges

07:42 Student Opportunities and Challenges

10:58 Adult Education Programs

12:14 Teacher Support and Industry Collaboration

16:59 Future Challenges and Opportunities

18:16 Trends in Education and Workforce

21:51 Work Ethic and Technology in Education

22:37 School Safety and Security Measures

23:26 Dr. Faircloth's Journey to Superintendent

26:10 Path to School Finance

29:28 Proud Accomplishments and Future Plans

32:17 Leadership Styles and Personal Interests

36:05 Connecting with Lorain County JVS

In episode 81 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Roger Dorsey, founder and president of Good Knights.

He discusses the nonprofit's mission to provide beds to underserved children, veterans, and seniors in Lorain County. 

Roger shares his personal story that inspired the creation of Good Knights, the impact the organization has had since its inception in 2020, and the ongoing need for volunteers and corporate partners. 

He also highlights how Good Knights collaborates with community partners and plans for future growth. 

The episode underscores the importance of providing a good night's sleep to improve the lives of vulnerable populations.

Ending Bedlessness: Roger Dorsey on Good Knights' Mission and Impact

00:15 Introduction to the Podcast and Sponsors

00:35 Meet Roger Dorsey: Founder of Good Knights

00:58 Roger's Personal Journey and the Birth of Good Knights

01:20 The Mission and Impact of Good Knights

01:36 Roger Dorsey's Early Life and Inspiration

01:43 How Good Knights Operates and Reaches Those in Need

03:12 Volunteer Efforts and Community Involvement

04:41 Success Stories and the Impact on Children's Lives

07:09 Collaboration with Community Partners

08:30 Funding and Support for Good Knights

10:08 Roger Dorsey's Leadership and Vision

13:02 Roger's Background and Personal Interests

17:22 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts