Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Meet Hill Kane : Insights and Stories from a Texas Improv Player and Podcaster

Podcasting and Improv: Behind the Scenes with Hill Kane

In this episode of Open Forum in The Villages, host Mike Roth welcomes guest Hill Kane. The two discuss Hill's background, from growing up in Southern California to her current roles as a Chief Marketing Officer and an experienced podcaster. Hill shares her journey into podcasting, her work with the Bit Comedy Network, and her experiences with online improv classes. The conversation delves into the challenges and fun of podcast production, the software and tools Hill uses, and the impact of AI on employment. They also touch on the vibrant community life in The Villages with its numerous clubs and activities. Hill gives her perspective on career choices, the benefits of living in The Villages, and a lighthearted exchange on stand-up comedy and musical improv.

00:00 Welcome to Season Seven
00:30 Meet Our Mystery Guest: Hill Kane
00:53 Hill Kane's Journey into Podcasting
03:14 The Bit Comedy Network
03:26 Podcasting Tools and Techniques
06:35 AI and the Future of Work
10:15 Life in The Villages
12:49 Improv and Comedy in The Villages
19:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

The Villages Experience: PodFest 2026 & Restaurant Reviews for Seniors

PodFest 2026 Review & Future Podcast Plans

Mike Roth welcomes listeners to season seven of 'Open Forum in The Villages, Florida' and shares a detailed review of PodFest 2026, highlighting experiences, challenges, and key takeaways. He discusses various features of the conference, including its VIP status benefits, the proliferation of sessions, and the exhibit hall turnout. Special mention is given to Mark Katz's business strategies and the innovative use of headsets in seminars. Mike also provides updates on upcoming changes for season eight, including the podcast's renaming and new episode topics covering AI, medical advancements, and other areas of senior interest. He ends by encouraging listener engagement and support while teasing future content.

00:00 Welcome to Season Seven
00:31 PodFest 2026 Review
02:32 Exhibit Hall Insights
05:53 Comedy and Personal Stories
09:05 Upcoming Changes and Season Eight Preview
09:22 Alzheimer's Disease Discussion with Dr. Curtis
10:58 Future Topics and AI Course
15:00 Fan Mail and Listener Interaction
18:38 Final Thoughts and Supporter Shoutouts

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Jeff Bogue - Navigating Governance in Sumter County

Insightful Conversations with Sumter County Commissioner Jeff Bogue

This episode of 'Open Forum in The Villages' features an engaging discussion with Jeff Bogue, Sumter County Commissioner for District 4. Host Mike Roth delves into Jeff's extensive background in emergency services, his achievements on the county commission, and his commitment to rural heritage and informed governance. The conversation touches on key topics such as road improvements, county budget management, and future growth plans. Jeff also shares his plans for the upcoming re-election and his vision for balancing residential and commercial development in the county.

00:00 Introduction to Open Forum in The Villages
00:33 Meet Jeff Bogue: Firefighter to County Commissioner
01:36 Jeff Bogue's Commitment to Sumter County
03:41 Challenges and Accomplishments in Local Governance
05:36 Advanced County Commissioner Certification
09:37 Road Infrastructure and Development
12:28 Discussion on Property Tax and Funding
19:26 Rural Roads and Maintenance
21:47 Healthcare and Hospital Development
23:22 Future Growth and Economic Development
25:31 Conclusion and Call to Action

For question or comments: Text 513-646-6523, include your name and email address
 
 

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Deanna Peden: From Lincoln Center to The Villages

Exploring the Musical Journey of Deanna Peden in The Villages

In this episode of Open Forum in The Villages, Florida, Mike Roth interviews celebrated performer and educator, Deanna Peden. Deanna discusses her extensive career in music and theater, from her early beginnings to her performances at notable venues like Lincoln Center. She provides insights into her journey as a voice teacher and highlights her recent move and activities in The Villages, including her upcoming role in Camelot. Deanna also shares her approach to teaching and the fulfillment she finds in mentoring young talents. The episode includes special shout-outs to supporters and information on how to stay connected with the show.

00:00 Welcome to Season Seven
00:41 Meet Deanna Peden: A Celebrated Performer
02:16 Deanna's Journey to The Villages
07:34 Highlights of Deanna's Career
08:24 Teaching and Mentoring Future Stars
09:25 Upcoming Performances and Future Plans
09:51 Alzheimer's Research with Dr. Craig Curtis
11:17 Developing Talent and Dedication to the Craft
18:43 Involvement with Local Productions
21:07 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Click Here to Hear Tuba Christmas Concert Excerpts on YouTube

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Wandering in Shadows and Finding Light: Jennifer Zajac's Journey

Wandering in the Shadows: Overcoming Addiction and Finding Faith

In this episode of Open Forum in The Villages, Mike Roth interviews sisters Donna Hoover and Jennifer Zajac. Jennifer shares her powerful journey from a life of addiction, starting from a young age, through her struggles with drugs, alcohol, and bulimia. Despite several relapses and challenging life events, including a ruptured brain aneurysm, Jennifer finds redemption and recovery through faith and a strong relationship with Jesus Christ. Donna discusses the process of writing the book 'Wandering in the Shadows' about Jennifer's life and their goal to inspire and provide hope to others facing similar struggles. The episode emphasizes the importance of open communication with loved ones and finding personal paths to healing and recovery.

00:00 Introduction to Open Forum in The Villages
00:36 Meet the Guests: Donna Hoover and Jennifer Zajac
00:57 Jennifer's Journey: From Addiction to Recovery
01:38 Early Struggles and Family Dynamics
06:05 The Turning Point: Finding Faith and Sobriety
10:20 Relapse and Redemption
12:43 Advice for Parents and Personal Reflections
18:09 Writing the Book: Wandering in the Shadows
20:50 Final Thoughts and How to Get the Book
22:34 Closing Remarks and Supporter Shoutouts

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Life in the Shadows: From Despair to Hope

From Shadows to Light: Donna Hoover's Tale of Redemption

In Season seven of Open Forum in The Villages, Florida, host Mike Roth interviews Donna Hoover about her gripping new book 'Wandering In the Shadows.' This episode delves into Donna's seven-and-a-half-year journey to tell the extraordinary true story of her sister Jennifer — a free-spirited young woman who endured addiction, abuse, trauma, and a life-threatening brain aneurysm, yet found her way back to faith, hope, and survival. The discussion covers the emotional and psychological lessons Donna learned, the challenges of balancing raw honesty with hope, and the importance of understanding and compassion. Additionally, listeners get insight into Donna's writing process, promotional strategies, and future aspirations, including a possible adaptation of the book into a movie or mini-series.

00:00 Introduction to Open Forum in The Villages
00:34 Meet Donna Hoover: Author and Creative Spirit
00:40 The Journey of Writing 'Wandering In the Shadows'
01:05 Jennifer's Struggles and Triumphs
03:14 Lessons Learned from Jennifer's Story
03:59 Balancing Honesty and Hope in Writing
05:14 The Impact of Addiction and Trauma
06:54 Jennifer's Resilience and Recovery
12:21 Reflections on Writing and Family Reactions
22:16 Promoting 'Wandering In the Shadows'
25:51 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Passion for Cars: Greg Panjian's Journey and the Exotic Car Club of The Villages

In this episode of Open Forum in The Villages, Florida, host Mike Roth sits down with Greg Panjian, founder of the newly formed Exotic Car Club of The Villages. Greg shares his fascinating journey from Connecticut to The Villages, driven by a love for cars and family ties. He recounts his experiences with various car clubs, the acquisition of his Rolls Royce, and the passion that fuels his involvement in the car community. The discussion covers the hurdles faced in maintaining exotic cars, the social element of car clubs, and his vision for the Exotic Car Club's future activities. Wrapping up the conversation, Greg offers insights and advice to young car enthusiasts and shares details on how to join the Exotic Car Club.

00:00 Introduction to Open Forum in The Villages
00:33 Meet Greg Panjian: From Connecticut to The Villages
01:50 Greg's Journey with Exotic Cars
04:42 Challenges and Joys of Owning a Rolls Royce
07:26 The Exotic Car Club of The Villages
12:12 Alzheimer's Tips with Dr. Craig Curtis
13:35 Greg's Involvement with the Rolls Royce Club
13:59 Driving the Rolls Royce Ghost
14:15 Current Car Collection
14:43 Acquiring the Rolls Royce Dawn
15:51 Garage Space and Daily Drivers
16:22 Future Car Purchases
17:54 Visiting the Rolls Royce Factory
21:07 Self-Driving Technology
25:00 Joining the Villages Exotic Car Club
25:34 Advice to Young Car Enthusiasts
26:41 Podcast Conclusion and Support

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Rising After Cancer: A Journey with Lisa Ellis

Overcoming Cancer: Lisa Ellis on Resilience and Recovery

In this episode of 'Open Forum in The Villages, Florida,' host Mike Roth interviews Lisa Ellis, an author, entrepreneur, and real estate investor. Lisa shares her journey of being diagnosed with and overcoming endometrial cancer, discussing her treatment options, the support from her loved ones, and her use of humor to cope. She talks about the lifestyle changes she made, including healthier eating habits, and how she overcame her fear of cancer recurrence. Lisa also discusses her book, 'Rising After Cancer,' which provides insights and strategies to help others through similar experiences. The episode emphasizes resilience, humor, and proactive health management in the face of life-threatening diagnoses.

00:00 Welcome to Season Seven
00:32 Meet Lisa Ellis: Author and Entrepreneur
00:46 Rising After Cancer: Lisa's Journey
02:23 Diagnosis and Treatment
07:13 The Role of Humor in Recovery
13:15 Fear of Recurrence and Moving Forward
15:34 Alzheimer's Tip from Dr. Craig Curtis
16:58 Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Changes
19:51 Rising After Cancer: Book Details
23:56 Advice for the Younger Generation
27:13 Conclusion and Supporter Shout Outs

As a BONUS - short recap of Christmas Tuba Concert:

Watch the 2025 Tuba Concert in The Villages at The Tracy

Villages Vitality Listeners, I've got some good news for you. In season 8 most new episodes will released as both audio & video versions. Videos on Apple Podcasts, Busssprout.com and YouTube. If you're listening via our Buzzsprout feed, you can ask questions via the Fan Mail button or leave me comments as a text or in our new feature, you can send it as a voicemail. If you'd like a response, make sure you leave your name, email address and cell phone number.

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

A reading I had to do just for you.

As a BONUS - short recap of Christmas Tuba Concert:

Watch the 2025 Tuba Concert in The Villages at The Tracy

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected] 

Send us FAN MAIL text, include your cell# for a reply

Exploring Alzheimer's Treatment and Prevention with Dr. Christopher Missling

In this episode of Open Forum in The Villages, host Mike Roth interviews Dr. Christopher Missling, President and CEO of Anavex Life Sciences. They discuss Dr. Missling's work in developing potential treatments for degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The conversation covers the concept of precision medicine, the current landscape of Alzheimer's treatment, and the promising drug blarcamesine, which aims to restore autophagy and regenerate neural cells. Dr. Missling shares insights into the challenges of treating Alzheimer's, the stages of their drug's approval process, and the importance of early and ongoing intervention. The episode highlights the need for a preventive approach to maintain brain health and the potential benefits of lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.

00:00 Introduction to Open Forum in The Villages
00:34 Meet Dr. Christopher Missling: President and CEO of Avavex Life Sciences
01:38 Understanding Precision Medicine
02:26 The Current Landscape of Alzheimer's Disease
05:00 Introducing Blarcamesine: A Potential Alzheimer's Treatment
10:26 The Importance of Early Treatment and Prevention
12:45 Lifestyle Tips for Prolonging Brain Health
16:47 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to [email protected]

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at:  [email protected]