Episode 4: Housing - The Foundation of Columbus’s Future

Episode 10: Behind the ALICE Numbers: A conversation with Melanie Hill

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592907/fan_mail/new] More than one in three households in Franklin County is working hard but still struggling to cover the basics. In this episode of So, Let’s Talk Columbus, Melanie Hill of United Way of Central Ohio helps unpack the ALICE data and what it reveals about the hidden financial hardship shaping our community. It’s a powerful conversation about the real cost of living, the people behind the numbers, and what it will take to make Columbus a place where more families can thrive.

Episode 9: Beyond the Shelter Door: A Conversation with Shannon Isom (Part 2)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592907/fan_mail/new] This is the second half of this important conversation. If you missed part one, be sure to go back and listen first.  In this episode of So, Let’s Talk Columbus, Michael talks with Shannon Isom, President and CEO of Community Shelter Board. Shannon Isom brings a powerful mix of candor, compassion and deep expertise to a conversation that cuts to the heart of what Columbus is facing. Shannon helps Michael unpack the real drivers behind homelessness, the strain on our shelter system, and why this issue is about more than individual circumstances. It’s about housing, systems and the kind of community we choose to build. Join Michael and Shannon for part one of a thoughtful, eye-opening discussion that will challenge assumptions and deepen your understanding of what it will take to move forward.

Episode 8: Beyond the Shelter Door: A Conversation with Shannon Isom (Part 1)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592907/fan_mail/new] In this episode of So, Let’s Talk Columbus, Michael talks with Shannon Isom, President and CEO of Community Shelter Board. Shannon Isom brings a powerful mix of candor, compassion and deep expertise to a conversation that cuts to the heart of what Columbus is facing. Shannon helps Michael unpack the real drivers behind homelessness, the strain on our shelter system, and why this issue is about more than individual circumstances. It’s about housing, systems and the kind of community we choose to build. Join Michael and Shannon for part one of a thoughtful, eye-opening discussion that will challenge assumptions and deepen your understanding of what it will take to move forward. Stay tuned for part two of this conversation on June 16.

Episode 7: Beyond the Books: A Conversation with Dr. Cheryl Wyatt

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592907/fan_mail/new] In this episode of So, Let’s Talk Columbus, Michael talks with Dr. Cheryl Wyatt of Success by Third Grade about how early literacy is about more than reading. It’s about the community coming together to strengthen the systems, supports and partnerships that help children thrive. Whether you’re new to Success by Third Grade or a longtime champion of the movement, this conversation offers fresh insight into the exciting work happening across Franklin County to create stronger futures for our students.

Episode 6: Stable Homes, Brighter Futures: A Conversation with Samantha Stewart

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592907/fan_mail/new] On this episode of So, Let’s Talk Columbus with Michael Wilkos, Michael explores how housing stability shapes a child’s ability to learn, grow and thrive, through a powerful conversation with Samantha Stewart of the YMCA of Central Ohio. It’s a human-centered look at the families doing everything they can to stay afloat, and the community partnership that is helping stabilize families, and keeping kids in school and hope within reach.