Everything Is Local

Mike Burkons
  • 4.9 (25)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Everything Is Local

Have you ever wondered what really goes on in local government? I’m Mike Burkons, your host and a former city council member. Some people loved me, some… well, let’s just say they weren’t fans but I’m here to pull back the curtain on the decisions that shape local communities. Every week, I’ll share insights from my time in office and break down local issues,controversies and dramas occurring in local governments in the area, not just in Beachwood, in a way that’s easy to understand and maybe even a little entertaining. Whether you’re interested andpassionate about small town politics and its drama that comes with it, and the local issues that affect your quality of life on a daily basis, this show is for you. We’ll cover these types of issues occurring in Beachwood and other local suburbs, chat with local experts and residents, and—who knows—go off-topic if the conversation gets interesting. Because here, it’s not just about government, it’s about what matters to you. So join me on “Everything is Local”—where understanding your community starts with listening.

  1. JUN 10

    Ep. 31 - Dental Daze and How the School Pays: A Follow Up On Last Week's Episode

    In this episode of Everything is Local, join Mike (now with one less tooth) and Shana as we follow up on the explosive reception of their recent episode with Missy. We dive into recent school district negotiations, the surprising $27 million settlement, audience feedback, and the importance of standing by your principles—especially in politics and education. Plus, Shana shares his excitement for the Savannah Bananas game, and we clear the air on Mike's fight song blunder.Tune in for a classic Mike and Shana episode full of local politics, laughter, and the occasional one-liner from Ethan. Please reach out to us with your thoughts, we'd love to open the dialogue!

    51 min

  2. JUN 3

    Ep. 30 - Retaining Teachers, Building Community: A Deep Dive into Beachwood’s School Contract

    In this special episode, Mike and Shana sit down with Missy, a dedicated educator with 16 years at Beechwood High School, to shed light on the ongoing negotiations surrounding the district’s teacher contract. They explore the challenges of salary schedules, retention of young teachers, and the importance of community support for educators.  Plus, insights into teaching history in a divided era, the significance of personal relationships in education, and what the community can do to help make Beachwood an even better place for teachers and students alike. Tune in for an honest conversation about education, community engagement, and the future of our schools.

    46 min

  3. MAY 27

    Ep. 29 - Local Politics, Local Law, and the Cost of Accountability — A Deep Dive

    In this episode, we unpack a whirlwind week filled with local politics, legal controversies, and reflections on leadership and accountability. From the Beechwood Schools Foundation scholarships to the Cleveland Heights body cam controversy, we explore how law, politics, and integrity intersect—and what it takes to hold those in power accountable. Join us for candid conversations, sharp insights, and a look at how community leaders' decisions ripple through our lives. Plus, a special nod to the importance of bravery and transparency in public service. Tune in for an unfiltered (and slightly buzzed) discussion you won’t want to miss!

    1h 20m

  4. MAY 20

    Ep. 28 - Stadium Dreams and Budget Nightmares

    Join us for a candid and chaotic deep dive into Cleveland's ongoing stadium saga, city budgeting nightmares, and the bizarre adventures with raccoons in the attic. We vent about the city’s reckless spending, the potential impact of a new stadium in Brook Park, and the true cost of infrastructure projects. Plus, personal stories about mice, raccoons, and the quest for the perfect date night. Whether you're a local resident or just love a good rant, this episode is packed with honest opinions, local politics, and a little bit of everything—because sometimes, life in Cleveland is just that wild.

    43 min

  5. MAY 13

    Ep. 27 - Nothing and Everything: Tales of Pain, Politics, and Parenthood

    In this episode, we dive into a mix of candid stories—from navigating dental pain and the addictive grip of opioids, to the surprising world of high fashion at the Met Gala, and the intricacies of local politics and community events. Join us as we discuss the realities of pain management, reflect on the legacy of Justice Souter, share family updates, and poke fun at the quirks of our town’s shred day. It's a little bit of nothing, a lot of everything—perfect for those who enjoy honest conversations, humor, and a touch of chaos. Will Mike ever get his grill? You’ll have to tune in next week to find out!

    29 min

  6. MAY 6

    Ep. 26 - Beachwood's Fairmount Temple Flip & The Deer Dilemma

    Welcome back to Everything is Local! Join us as we dive deep into Beachwood's controversial purchase and proposed development of the Fairmount Temple property, including revelations from public records requests, concerns about density, and the debate over TIFs. Plus, we tackle the surprisingly heated topic of deer management in the city, from culling to sterilization, and share some personal (and potentially embarrassing) stories along the way. Mike and Shana bring on Matt Hildebrand for a classic locally sourced episode!

    49 min

  7. APR 29

    Ep. 25 - Between the Lines: Navigating Debate, Free Speech, and the Israel-Palestine Conflict

    Hosts Shana and Mike did some Podcast-based research this week! Our intrepid hosts take a critical look at Isreal-Palestine debate featured on Joe Rogan. Tune in as they explore themes of nuance, responsibility, and the importance of allowing divergent perspectives in the wake of societal contention.Our hosts grapple with the controversial figures and ideas presented in modern media, highlighting insightful moments from podcasts featuring comedians-turned-commentators like Dave Smith and Andrew Schultz. They discuss the power of protest, the impact of historical narratives, and the necessity for civil dialogue amidst rising tensions even if ultimately, we can't all agree.Everything is Local Producer Ethan joins the conversation as they navigate a thought-provoking discussion filled with laughter, frustration, and the desire for understanding in a rapidly changing world. Don’t miss their reflections on community feedback and the courage it takes to voice unpopular opinions!

    1h 5m

  8. APR 22

    Ep. 24 - Stitching Kindness, US Marshall Madness, Healing with Hockey, and Crap Cakes with Dr. Goldschmidt and Blair Arbuckle

    Welcome to a special episode of Everything is Local! This week, Mike and Shana shine a spotlight on the incredible work of Dr. Matt Goldschmidt, a renowned plastic surgeon and passionate do-gooder. He shares his inspiring journey of how he combines his medical expertise with a heartfelt mission to improve the lives of children with cleft palates in underserved communities around the world.Listen in as Dr. Goldschmidt discusses his nonprofit organization, Beautiful Faces, and the annual charity hockey tournament he organizes with Blair Arbuckle to fund life-changing surgeries in countries with limited medical resources. Discover the profound impact these surgeries have on not just the physical well-being of his young patients, but also their social acceptance and quality of life.We’ll also recount some enlightening personal experiences from our co-hosts' own adventures in both the passover kitchen and the unpredictability of American law enforcement. As we navigate through stories of family, faith, and compassion, you’ll find a common thread: the power of community and the ways we can all contribute to making a difference.Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, laughter, and a call to action. Help us spread the message of kindness and charity, and discover how you can make a positive impact in the lives of those who truly need it.Donate now and make a difference in your own community and beyond! How to Help PayPal = @BFcharityVenmo = @BFcharityInstagram = @beautifulfacescharity  Visit the website!

    43 min
See All (32)

4.9
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Have you ever wondered what really goes on in local government? I’m Mike Burkons, your host and a former city council member. Some people loved me, some… well, let’s just say they weren’t fans but I’m here to pull back the curtain on the decisions that shape local communities. Every week, I’ll share insights from my time in office and break down local issues,controversies and dramas occurring in local governments in the area, not just in Beachwood, in a way that’s easy to understand and maybe even a little entertaining. Whether you’re interested andpassionate about small town politics and its drama that comes with it, and the local issues that affect your quality of life on a daily basis, this show is for you. We’ll cover these types of issues occurring in Beachwood and other local suburbs, chat with local experts and residents, and—who knows—go off-topic if the conversation gets interesting. Because here, it’s not just about government, it’s about what matters to you. So join me on “Everything is Local”—where understanding your community starts with listening.

Information

  • Creator
    Mike Burkons
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024, Mike Burkons, All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Everything Is Local

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