The Conversation

On this episode of “The Conversation”, Rachel and Christina, sit down with Jake Miller, a Personalized Learning and EdTech Specialist at Summit ESC and the ESC of the Western Reserve. Together, they explore the real-world impact of AI in education, discussing how both students and teachers can leverage this technology for learning, creativity, and innovation. Tune in for insights, practical applications, and a look at the future of AI in the classroom!

This episode of “The Conversation” is a continuation of our series “Emerging Technologies”. This series aims to highlight new technologies that are transforming our everyday lives and local communities. 

Jake Miller has been a Personalized Learning & EdTech Specialist at Summit ESC and ESC of the Western Reserve since 2022. Before taking on that role, Jake spent 5 years as a technology integration specialist and 14 years teaching math, science, and STEM. Jake has also worked extensively in educational technology as a speaker, presenter, podcaster, blogger, and author (of the book Educational Duct Tape: An EdTech Integration Mindset). Jake has presented at several local and national conferences, including ISTE, FETC, OETC, and at Google’s New York City location.

Links Jake Miller Recommends to Learn More:

https://app.diffit.me/

https://chatgpt.com/

https://www.magicschool.ai/

https://app.schooljoy.com/login

On this episode of “The Conversation”, John and Rachel chat with Dr. David Staley, a history professor at The Ohio State University and a futurist. Together, they’ll learn about rapid technology advancements and the impacts they’re having on our local industries, our economy and our daily lives. Let’s dive in!

This episode of “The Conversation” is the start of a new series “Emerging Technologies”. In this series, we’re highlighting new technologies that are transforming our everyday lives and local communities. 

Dr. David J. Staley is a writer, designer, futurist, historiographer, educator, advisor, and journalist, and was recently described as an "eclectic academic." He is an Associate Professor in the departments of History and Design at The Ohio State University, and is the author of Alternative Universities: Speculative Design for Innovation in Higher Education, the co-author of Knowledge Towns: Colleges and Universities as Talent Magnets and author of Visionary Histories, a collection of his essays about the future. He is an honorary faculty fellow at the Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practice (CHELIP) at Bay Path University, where he contributes the "University Design" column, and was recently named a faculty associate at the Centre for Higher Education Transformations (CHET) at the University of Bristol.  He is the host of the "Voices of Excellence" podcast, and president of Columbus Futurists, a local think tank.  In 2022 he was awarded "Best Freelance Writer" by the Ohio Society of Professional Journalists for his "Next" futures column with Columbus Underground.

Links Dr. Staley Recommends:

https://columbusunderground.com/author/dstaley/   

https://columbusfuturists.org/ 

https://podcast.osu.edu/voices-of-excellence/

Contact Dr. Staley:

[email protected]

On this episode of “The Conversation”, John and Rachel chat with the new CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Library, Lauren Hagan, and their Chief Community Engagement Officer, Donna Zuiderweg. Together, they discuss the library's upcoming goals, explore some of their current programming, and highlight the vital role partnerships play in its continued success. Let’s dive in!

This episode of “The Conversation” is a continuation of our latest series: “Bridging Gaps: Partnerships and Educational Adjacent Organizations”. In this series, we’re highlighting community partnerships creating impactful change in our community.

Lauren Hagan became CEO of Columbus Metropolitan Library in October 2024. CML has 24 locations with more than 850 employees and an annual operating budget of $120 million. Prior to becoming CEO, Lauren served as the library’s Chief Financial Officer, joining the organization in 2018. In that role, she led several departments, including Finance, Information Technology and Capital Planning & Project Management. In addition, Lauren managed several key library initiatives: the planning and construction of 11 library branch projects and the issuance of $40 million in public debt. In 2023, she oversaw financial planning, internal communications, compliance and ballot process efforts for the successful passage of CML’s continuing levy. Prior to joining CML, Lauren spent nearly a decade at Loyola University Chicago in various leadership and financial positions, most recently as Senior Associate Vice President of Finance and Controller. She channels her passion about issues affecting women and families as a community leader, serving as board chair of the Affordable Housing Trust, an affordable housing lender and investor. In 2020, Lauren was named to Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40 class. Lauren is a CPA and earned bachelor's and master's degrees in accounting from Loyola University Chicago. Lauren and her husband Jim Venetucci live in Hilliard and have two children.  

Columbus Metropolitan Library: https://www.columbuslibrary.org/  

On this episode of “The Conversation”, John and Rachel chat with Jill Snyder, the Visitor Engagement Manager and Public Information Officer at Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. Together, they’ll explore the exciting array of current park activities, discuss upcoming events, and learn about a new facility designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind.  

This episode of “The Conversation” is a continuation of our latest series: “Bridging Gaps: Partnerships and Educational Adjacent Organizations”. In this series, we’re highlighting community partnerships creating impactful change in our community.

Jill Snyder is Metro Parks Visitor Engagement Manager, overseeing reservations, marketing, education and events. Jill has been a part of the Metro Parks team for over 20 years, leading programs, coordinating events, working in nature centers, and overseeing the education program for the park district. Along the way, Jill assisted with marketing, media requests and worked on monthly "Wander Wonder with Jill" videos highlighting the amazing features of Metro Parks. Jill grew up exploring the outdoors and loves running, hiking and sharing the park system with her family. 

Links: www.metroparks.net

Contact Metro Parks:

[email protected]  

[email protected]

On this episode of The Conversation, John and Christina (filling in for Rachel) have an insightful conversation about the wide range of resources the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services offers. They chat with Gerrie Cotter, Manager of the Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program, and Dalen Hill, a former student whose career has been transformed by these impactful programs.

This episode of “The Conversation” is part of a new series: “Bridging Gaps: Partnerships and Educational Adjacent Organizations”. In this series, we’ll highlight community partnerships that are creating impactful change in our community. 

Gerrie Cotter manages the Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services’ Office of Workforce Development. During Cotter’s 11-year career with ODJFS, she also managed OhioMeansJobs.com projects with the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Higher Education as well as developed policy agencywide as the former Chief Policy Advisor for the Director’s Office. Cotter has her B.A. in International Studies and French from West Virginia University as well as her J.D. from Loyola University, New Orleans.

Dalen Hill is a dedicated healthcare professional with a passion for the arts, music, and media. While attending The Charles School, Dalen joined Lead the Way, which paved the path for a career in healthcare. With certifications as an STNA, phlebotomist, and medication aide through VIP Medical Academy, Dalen combines hands-on skills with a strong academic foundation. Earning an associate's degree in Cross Disciplinary Studies and Art from Ohio Dominican University in May, Dalen has experience in senior and pediatric care and has worked with OhioHealth and YAMO Media, driven by a commitment to care and creativity.

Links:

Mobility Managers Contact List | Ohio Department of Transportation

Connect with ODJFS

Guest’s Email: [email protected]

Podcast brought to you by:

The ESC of Central Ohio: Center for Achievement & Leadership

Podcast Hosts:

John Hambrick, Work Based Learning Coordinator
Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Produced By:

Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Brenna Schoen, Communications Specialist

On this episode of “The Conversation”, John and Rachel sit down with Shea Kaltmann, the Director of Kitchen of Life, to explore how the organization is transforming lives through the culinary arts. Discover how Kitchen of Life fosters resilience and strengthens interpersonal skills by bringing people together in the kitchen. Join us for an inspiring discussion about the power of food to create community, build confidence and spark personal growth.

This episode of “The Conversation” is part of a new series: “Bridging Gaps: Partnerships and Educational Adjacent Organizations”. In this series, we’ll highlight community partnerships that are creating impactful change in our community. 

Shea Kaltmann is the Director of Kitchen of Life, a non-profit organization based in Columbus, Ohio, dedicated to building resilience and fostering social-emotional skills for youth through culinary arts. Born in Columbus, Shea attended school in Columbus, Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles before returning to Columbus in March 2020. Additionally, Shea serves on the Education and Data and Research Action Teams for the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition.

Links: https://kolc.org/

Guest’s Email: [email protected]

Podcast brought to you by:

The ESC of Central Ohio: Center for Achievement & Leadership

Podcast Hosts:
John Hambrick, Work Based Learning Coordinator
Rachel Daniels, Adolescent Literacy Consultant

Produced By:

Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Brenna Schoen, Communications Specialist

*Please note: the introduction of this podcast incorrectly refers to the high school as "Village Springs". The correct name of the school is "Village High School". On this episode of The Conversation, John and Rachel sit down with Village High School teachers Susan Nolan and Dan Takacs. Together, they dive into the teacher’s thought-provoking course, Voices in Conflict, which challenges students to explore diverse perspectives and embrace new ideas. This episode is part of our ongoing series, Democracy in the Classroom, designed to keep you engaged and informed this election season.
 
Susan Nolan’s path to education was not linear. She chose to leave her own stifling, traditional high school experience early, consequently because such a conventional environment only really served to further develop her natural sense of recalcitrance. At 17, Susan began traveling many parts of the world singing and dancing professionally and has also made a living as a personal trainer and in sales. At 30, she decided summers and weekends off would be great, so she earned her teaching credential. Turns out, she has a true passion for working with young people, building authentic connections with them, and helping them see and embrace their own self-worth and noble pursuits.

Meet Tak: once a third-grade reading class escape artist, he spent more time plotting his escape than decoding, The Cat in the Hat. His dreams of the NBA were swiftly derailed during his junior year of high school, thanks to a growth spurt that never happened. However, a move to Mississippi opened his eyes to social struggles, sparking a passion for deep dives into social histories. He found his way back to teaching with a goal to help spur hope in kids and maybe his third grade self. He somehow earned a masters in secondary education, too. 

Links: https://village.asd20.org/

Podcast brought to you by:

The ESC of Central Ohio: Center for Achievement & Leadership

Podcast Hosts:

John Hambrick, Work Based Learning Coordinator
Rachel Daniels, Adolescent Literacy Consultant

Produced By:

Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Brenna Schoen, Communications Specialist

Tune in to the exciting conclusion of Episode 1 of The Conversation! In this episode, John and Rachel dive deeper into David Strausbaugh’s thought-provoking American Political Thought and Radicalism course at Worthington Kilbourne High School. Hear firsthand how this unique class has shaped the values and civic engagement of a former student. This episode is a part of our Democracy Starts in the Classroom series, designed to keep you informed and engaged this voting season. 

David Strausbaugh has taught for over 30 years in Philadelphia and Columbus. At Worthington Kilbourne High School he has taught US History and American Political Thought and Radicalism, a senior elective class which has been featured on NBC Nightly News, the Columbus Dispatch and recently Columbus Monthly magazine for its unique format and content. Speakers from all over the country have participated in the class.

Bella Selph is a recent Worthington-Kilbourne grad and former student of the American Political Thought and Radicalism Class. An animal rights activist, Bella is based in Columbus Ohio. She will be attending Columbus State this fall.

Article: https://bit.ly/3SReEeb

Recipe: https://kristineskitchenblog.com/one-pot-vegetarian-chili-mac/

Emails: 

[email protected]

[email protected]

Podcast brought to you by:

The ESC of Central Ohio: Center for Achievement & Leadership

Podcast Hosts:

John Hambrick, Work Based Learning Coordinator
Rachel Daniels, Adolescent Literacy Consultant

Produced By:

Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Brenna Schoen, Communications Specialist

Season 2 of The Conversation is here! This two-part episode is a part of our Democracy Starts in the Classroom series which will cover civic engagement topics to keep you informed and engaged this voting season. On this episode of The Conversation, John and Rachel chat with David Strausbaugh, a Social Studies teacher at Worthington Kilbourne High School. John and Rachel will learn about David’s American Political Thought & Radicalism class and hear from one of his former student’s, Bella Selph, to learn how the course opened her eyes to new ideas and perspectives. 

David Strausbaugh has taught for over 30 years in Philadelphia and Columbus. At Worthington Kilbourne High School he has taught US History and American Political Thought and Radicalism, a senior elective class which has been featured on NBC Nightly News, the Columbus Dispatch and recently Columbus Monthly magazine for its unique format and content. Speakers from all over the country have participated in the class.

Bella Selph is a recent Worthington-Kilbourne grad and former student of the American Political Thought and Radicalism Class. An animal rights activist, Bella is based in Columbus Ohio. She will be attending Columbus State this fall.

Article: https://bit.ly/3SReEeb

Recipe: https://kristineskitchenblog.com/one-pot-vegetarian-chili-mac/

Emails:

[email protected]

[email protected]

Podcast brought to you by:

The ESC of Central Ohio: Center for Achievement & Leadership

Podcast Hosts:

John Hambrick, Work Based Learning Coordinator
Rachel Daniels, Adolescent Literacy Consultant

Produced By:

Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Brenna Schoen, Communications Specialist

The final episode of Season 1 of "The Conversation, is here!  Tune in as John chats with Opal Brant from One Columbus about their groundbreaking efforts to support and engage businesses with our region’s K-12 pipeline. Learn how they’re shaping the future workforce and creating opportunities for our youth. Don’t miss this inspiring discussion! Make sure to keep an eye out for Season 2 of The Conversation, premiering this August. #TheConversation #COWRC

Opal M. Brant is a talent strategist with over a decade of experience in workforce development, consulting, and training. As the Emerging Talent Manager at One Columbus, Opal focuses on the K-12 talent pipeline efforts around Central Ohio.

Opal has a blend of knowledge from her human resources and workforce development background that helps her build strategic partnerships and effective economic inclusion and talent pipeline strategies. Prior to working at One Columbus, Opal was the Director of Business Solutions with the Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio where she led a high-performing team and launched a variety of projects and initiatives to enhance workforce efforts in the region including the creation of the Central Ohio Healthcare Sector Partnership and Workforce Evolution, the inaugural conference for workforce and HR professionals. Opal also played a key role in securing half a million dollars in grants.

Before relocating her family and joining her husband in Ohio, Opal worked in the Human Resources Office of Strategic Workforce Development at Johns Hopkins Health System in Baltimore, MD. At Johns Hopkins, Opal worked on internal and external talent pipeline strategies leveraging partnerships with community-based organizations, local government, and local training providers. 

https://columbusregion.com/

Podcast brought to you by:

The ESC of Central Ohio: Center for Achievement & Leadership

Podcast Hosts:

John Hambrick, Work Based Learning Coordinator

Produced By:

Christina Grady-Watts, Personalized Learning Specialist

Brenna Schoen, Communications Specialist