Franklin County Media

Franklin County Board of Commissioners

Franklin County Media is your source for the latest content from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the 15 agencies that directly report to them. Not only will you be able to check out original Franklin County Podcasts such as "Talk of the County Podcast", this feed will keep you informed, engaged, and connected with the initiatives and developments shaping our community. Franklin County Media is your go-to destination for accessing county government and learning how we're serving every resident, every day.

  1. APR 14

    Exploring Utah County Growth, Innovation, and Community with Ezra Nair

    If you’re curious about life in Utah County, what makes it tick, or just looking for your next adventure—or your next meal—join me as we shine a spotlight on a county that’s deeply rooted in community values and brimming with opportunity. I’m Kenneth Wilson, your county administrator and host for today’s County Administrator series. In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Ezra Nair, my colleague and the County Administrator for Utah County, Utah—a place that's experiencing explosive growth and transforming rapidly before our eyes. Together, we explore what sets Utah County apart—from its booming tech scene and innovative industries, to the challenges and opportunities that come with rapid population growth. Ezra shares his journey from Illinois to Utah, insights into local culture and community, and the ways Utah County is tackling issues like affordable housing, public safety, and infrastructure. We also dig into some fun and surprising facts about Utah County: its role in the upcoming Winter Olympics, its vibrant restaurant scene (yes, even in Provo!), and the blend of rural roots and urban dynamism that makes it so appealing to newcomers from across the country. Moments 00:00 About the county and its lake 04:30 Moving to Utah and its growth 08:55 Growth industries in Utah 12:52 Improving transit in Utah County 15:31 Preparing for Utah 2034 Olympics 17:38 Provo’s diverse restaurant scene 22:25 Supporting local farms in Utah 23:56 Outdoor recreation and healthy living 26:55 County's role in mental health 32:28 Utah's beaches and mountains 34:24 The role of county government Here are three key takeaways from our discussion: Rapid Growth & Opportunity: Utah County is projected to reach a population of one million by 2065 and may even surpass Salt Lake County. Its youthful demographic and tech-driven economy are fueling exciting prospects for the future.Quality of Life & Innovation: The county invests heavily in infrastructure, public safety, and recreation, embracing public transit solutions and maintaining a healthy environment with abundant outdoor activities and a thriving farm scene.Community & Culture: Utah County stands out for its strong sense of community, diversity brought by transplants from across the nation, and a rich food scene — yes, you can find great chicken & waffles and grits in Provo! talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

    36 min

  2. MAR 24

    Grand Rapids Unveiled: Festivals, Furniture, and Future Visions for Kent County

    On this episode of Talk Of The County, host Kenneth Wilson welcomes Al Vanderberg, County Administrator for Kent County, Michigan, for a wide-ranging conversation about what makes West Michigan and Grand Rapids such dynamic places to live and work. The two longtime colleagues talk about the unique challenges and opportunities facing county governments, draw out fun connections between their Michigan and Ohio roots, and offer listeners an insider's perspective on how Kent County is balancing rapid growth, changing demographics, and a vibrant cultural and economic scene. From the legacy of President Gerald R. Ford and the rise of major furniture and brewing industries, to the booming arts scene and ambitious projects like a world-class aquarium, Al Vanderberg shares both pride and candid insight into what’s driving Kent County forward. The conversation also touches on pressing issues like affordable housing, public transit, and the future of shopping malls and neighborhoods. Plus, you’ll hear some fun personal moments—including hidden talents, favorite vacation spots, and the story of a family legacy in public service. Whether you’re a Midwestern local or just curious about how fast-growing communities tackle the future, this episode is packed with stories and lessons from the front lines of local government leadership. Here are 3 key takeaways: Kent County’s Dynamic Growth: Kent County is the fastest-growing county in Michigan, where young people and diverse populations are flocking thanks to vibrant arts, sports, and business opportunities.Leadership Matters: Solving big challenges like affordable housing, transportation, and supporting arts institutions requires collaborative, visionary leadership across public and private sectors.Community & Culture Drive Success: From renowned festivals, breweries, and museums to resilient partnerships between city and county governments, Kent County thrives because it invests in community and culture. Moments 06:14 Grand Rapids: Furniture and Beer Hub 09:34 "Growing Young and Diverse" 10:25 Grand Rapids Cultural Highlights 13:31 Grand River Aquarium Project 17:43 "Tackling Housing and Homelessness Challenges" 20:48 "Grand Rapids Transit & Challenges" 25:32 "Meyer Gardens' Leading Success" 28:32 City-County Collaboration Enhanced 32:41 "Detroit's Perfect Leader: Campbell" 34:35 "Greenway Trails and Connections" 38:43 "Thriving Populations in Kent County" 40:18 "Shifting Demographics in West Michigan" 44:18 Malls Evolving: Transitions & Trends 48:50 "Leadership Driving Growth and Solutions" 50:59 "Son's Journey to Leadership" talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

    54 min
  3. Opening the 2026 Term. Franklin County Board of Commissioners General Session

    JAN 7

    Opening the 2026 Term. Franklin County Board of Commissioners General Session

    The Franklin County Board of Commissioners held its General Session on January 6, 2026, launching the new year with leadership selections and key county decisions. The Board elected Commissioner John O’Grady as President for the 2026 term and heard his remarks outlining key priorities, including fiscal responsibility, affordable housing, workforce development, and community partnerships. The session also included approval of resolutions related to inmate medical services, animal care, opioid harm reduction evaluation, cybersecurity authority, employee salary adjustments, and long-term support for Nationwide Arena renovations. Additional administrative actions included board appointments, annexation filings, and notice of a critical website accessibility upgrade to meet federal compliance deadlines. Watch the full meeting on our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE0F0e5vQ7M Find the agenda here: https://www.franklincountyohio.gov/fi...

    24 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    Franklin County Public Health Commissioner Joe Mazzola Tackling Public Health Challenges

    This is an episode that’s both informative and inspiring, revealing why public health matters and how it touches the lives of every county resident—every day. Kenneth Wilson sits down with Franklin County Public Health Commissioner Joe Mazzola for an insightful and engaging conversation about all things public health in Franklin County. Whether you’ve ever wondered what a health commissioner does, how epidemiology helps keep communities safe, or why local partnerships matter, this episode is packed with answers. Joe Mazzola shares his unconventional journey from political campaign work to leading public health efforts, highlights the broad array of services Franklin County Public Health provides—from food inspections and mosquito control to maternal wellness and addiction support—and unpacks his agency’s innovative work tackling issues like infant mortality and substance use disorder. The discussion also covers how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the approach to health emergencies, why community initiatives like Recover for Life make Franklin County different, and even how artificial intelligence might impact future public health efforts. Plus, you’ll get a few personal insights about Joe Mazzola through a fun lightning round at the end. Moments 00:00 "Unexpected Paths in Public Health" 05:58 Epidemiologists: Data-Driven Health Storytellers 08:56 Health Department Services Overview 11:45 Community Health Improvement Plan 13:50 Franklin County Addiction Response Plan 19:16 Housing for Health Innovation 23:05 Beyond Nuisance Abatement 24:59 Townships: Core of Health Department 27:45 Health Prevention Strategies 30:50 "Franklin County Recovery Campaign" 33:52 Pandemic's Impact on Public Health 39:29 AI in Healthcare: Challenges & Trust 40:34 AI Needs Human Oversight 46:52 Support Franklin County Community 47:31 "Amplify Lives, Spread Kindness" Takeaways Here are three key takeaways: Collaboration is at the heart of progress: Joe Mazzola emphasizes the power of partnerships—whether it's tackling infant mortality through initiatives like Celebrate1 or addressing substance use disorder with the Columbus Franklin County Addiction Plan. Working together with local agencies, townships, and community organizations makes a measurable difference.Public health is more than just responding to outbreaks: From environmental health (like food safety and mosquito control) to tackling social determinants, the Franklin County Public Health team focuses on preventive services and holistic health solutions—including innovative housing collaborations for better community outcomes.Continuous learning from challenges: The COVID-19 pandemic was a major pivot point, highlighting the need for strong relationships, clear communication, and constant preparedness. As Joe Mazzola shares, these lessons are leading to lasting changes in how the county approaches health emergencies—with an eye on technology and equity. talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

    48 min

  5. 10/21/2025

    Intern Kennedy Hampton's Path to Pediatric Dentistry

    Whether you’re a student navigating college choices, someone interested in public service, or just looking for genuine inspiration, this episode delivers honest insight and energetic storytelling you won’t want to miss. On this episode of Talk Of The County, County Administrator Kenneth Wilson welcomes Kennedy Hampton, a driven bio pre-med major from Hampton University, for an inspiring and lively conversation. Kennedy shares what drew her to the “real HU”—from a vibrant campus ministry to the welcoming community and scenic waterfront views. Together, they explore her passion for pediatric dentistry, her experiences as a summer intern in Franklin County, and the importance of faith and community for college students today. Kennedy opens up about the influential women who have shaped her goals, her commitment to serving marginalized communities, and how internships and mentorship can shape a student’s future. The conversation also includes topics of campus life, music favorites, self-care, and Kennedy’s love of fashion and sneakers—sprinkling in laughs, practical advice, and ambition along the way. Moments 00:00 "Faith-Focused Hampton Experience" 03:32 Legacy Park: Inspiration and Reflection 08:43 "Kennedy's Dentist Dream" 12:14 Social Media's Positive Influence 14:52 "Boosting Student Support & Growth" 18:43 Staying Rooted in Faith 19:57 Securing the Bag Explained 25:41 Maximize Opportunities, Reach the Door 28:22 Prioritizing Self-Care in College 32:12 "Drake: My Top Artist" 34:05 Top Female Artist: Summer Walker 38:16 "Old R&B Beats New" 40:55 Santorini Dreams and Pinterest 44:16 "Fashion: Economy and Identity" Here are 3 key takeaways from my conversation: Finding Your Fit Matters: Touring HBCUs helped her realize how important it is to feel “at home” on campus. Hampton’s bold campus ministry and welcoming vibe truly sealed the deal for me. Internships Open Doors: Her summer in public service taught her more than any class could. Real-world exposure, research projects, and community engagement have prepared her for her path in dentistry—and emphasizing the value of saying yes even when you feel unsure. Authenticity & Faith Fuel Ambition: Perseverance and faith remain central to her story. Using her voice on social platforms and in the community, she's learned the power of showing up unapologetically and supporting others—especially those who aren’t always heard. talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

    49 min

  6. 10/07/2025

    Damika Withers, Deputy County Administrator

    Host Kenneth Wilson sits down with Damika Withers, Franklin County’s newest Deputy County Administrator. Damika shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, to leading transformative work in health and human services, and now playing an integral role in county administration. Never Forget Where You Come From: "I never forget where I come from, partly because, I mean, it's who I am. It's the heart of who I am. It keeps me grounded, it keeps me humble."With roots in public service and a passion for equity, accessibility, and community engagement, Damika opens up about the real impact of county agencies—with a focus on supporting local businesses, building pathways to opportunity, and uplifting every resident of Franklin County. The conversation takes us from Damika’s early career pivots and family legacy at General Motors to her hands-on leadership in programs like the Columbus Fashion Alliance and the Center for Entrepreneurial Development. Along the way, Kenneth and Damika talk about the challenges of balancing education and parenthood, the value of mentorship, and why remembering where you come from matters. Plus, you’ll learn about new ways the county is modernizing services and hear how Damika’s day-to-day work is changing lives across the community. Wrapping up with a quick-fire round of pop culture favorites, this episode is a celebration of public service, resilience, and local pride. A few key takeaways from the discussion: Your Path May Surprise You: My career began with dreams of journalism and evolved into a rewarding path in public service—proof that embracing unexpected turns can lead to incredible impact!Bringing Equity to All Aspects of Government: Whether supporting small businesses through initiatives like the Columbus Fashion Alliance, or reimagining how we handle procurement and workforce development, our team is committed to ensuring access, opportunity, and innovation for every Franklin County resident.Giving Back Matters: The most meaningful part of my work is the ability to help others grow and succeed—from mentees and colleagues, to entrepreneurs building new legacies in our community. Moments 00:00 Team Franklin County: Motivated Leadership 03:54 Public Service Career Journey 07:12 Applying MPA Education to Real-World 10:25 Patience and Opportunity in Careers 13:32 "Embracing Origins and Identity" 18:57 Role Evolution and Community Goals 20:23 Equity and Access Initiatives Expanded 27:29 Columbus Fashion Collaboration Hub Launch 29:20 Local Organic Fashion at DCA Withers 32:33 "Proud of Positive Impact" talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

    43 min

  7. 09/23/2025

    Intern Olivia Peebles Shares Insights on Government, Advocacy, and Ambition

    Finding Your Path in Public Affairs: "I'm so happy to be here with the county, because I'm learning so much about all of the different government and public affairs roles that I could have that I never knew about." - Olivia PeeblesHost Kenneth Wilson sits down with Olivia Peebles, a dynamic county intern and rising senior at The Ohio State University’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Olivia shares her passion for public policy, civic engagement, and education reform, reflecting on how youth involvement is shaping local and national conversations. Together, they talk about the realities of modern student activism, the power of community, challenges in mobilizing younger generations, and the joys and surprises of navigating college life in Columbus. This is an inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and the impact of young voices on today’s most pressing social issues—plus a few fun facts about Olivia’s favorite music, TV shows, and her dreams for the future. Whether you’re a student, parent, or civic-minded resident, this episode offers both practical insights and authentic encouragement for anyone eager to make a difference. Here are three key takeaways for anyone passionate about making a difference: Engagement Starts Local: Real change begins in our own communities. I’ve seen firsthand at The Ohio State University and in Franklin County how being involved in local government, boards, and organizations empowers young people to actively shape their environments.Consistency & Resilience Matter: Transformative movements aren’t built on one-time actions, but on sustained effort and real sacrifice. Whether it’s organizing around issues that matter or staying true to your values (even when it gets tough!), commitment is what drives meaningful change.Don’t Let Self-Doubt Hold You Back: As she preps for graduation, she's learned that nobody’s path is perfectly clear. It’s okay not to have everything figured out. Staying open to opportunities and believing in your ability to adapt is just as important as dreaming big. Moments 00:00 Youth Spotlight in Franklin County 06:06 Diverse Activism at Glenn College 06:57 Protesting Tactics Learned at University 11:53 Athlete Privilege and Perspective Shift 13:24 Accountability in College Athletics 18:40 Broadening Horizons Through Community 21:37 Career Path: Frontward or Behind-the-Scenes? 23:28 Unyielding Belief and Persistence 29:54 The Allergy Generation Divide 31:28 "Curious, But Not Into Bureaucracy" 34:08 Future Plans: Moving to North Carolina 38:47 Heartfelt Determination for Happiness 41:59 Style Contrast with Sisters 44:39 Delayed Progress for Women Leaders 48:29 "Motivating Generational Engagement" 51:26 Youth Civic Engagement Challenges 54:48 "Never Doubt Yourself" 56:48 "Empowering Future Generations Podcast" talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

    58 min

  8. 09/09/2025

    The National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Incoming President Betsy Keller

    Whether you’re passionate about local government, leadership, or just want a front-row seat to the stories that shape our communities, this episode has something for you. In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Betsy Keller, the newly elected president of the National Association of County Administrators. We talk about what it really means to run one of the nation’s 3,069 counties and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with this critical work. Betsy, who also serves as the Chief Administrator for El Paso County, Texas, shares her journey from her early days in city government to stepping up as a leader on the national stage. We talk about what makes El Paso special—a diverse, cross-border county full of economic vitality and cultural richness—and how she works with partners on both sides of the border to address complex issues like food insecurity, housing, and economic development. Our conversation touches on the human side of county administration. What motivates us, the importance of mentorship, and how building a great team makes all the difference. Betsy also lets us in on her personal life, from her love of family and adventure to her unexpected passion for fast cars and drag racing. Here are 3 key takeaways from our discussion: Collaboration Across Borders: El Paso County’s unique position as a diverse, binational community highlights the power of collaboration, with both local, state, and international partners. Betsy emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining relationships across sectors and countries, particularly around economic development and crisis management. Investing in People & Leadership: Betsy’s HR background proved invaluable as she stepped into higher leadership. She shares candid reflections on how foundational people management, leadership development, and fostering team accountability are to the county’s success. She also speaks passionately about uplifting future leaders and pushing for opportunities for women to advance. Facing Community Challenges Head-On: Whether navigating flooding in a desert county or supporting local nonprofits through federal funding cuts, Betsy demonstrates a proactive, people-first approach. Her commitment to innovating in areas like affordable housing and workforce development stands as a model for public sector leaders nationwide. Moments 00:00 El Paso's Unique Location Highlights 06:02 Cross-Border Cooperation Efforts 07:17 Career Journey from Clerk to HR Director 13:35 El Paso's Flood Management Efforts 16:56 El Paso's Housing Stability Examined 17:43 "Population Shift to Suburbs" 24:09 State Grants Boost El Paso Region 27:24 Nonprofits Struggle Amid Funding Cuts 29:42 Impacts of County Funding Reductions 32:26 Strengthening Affiliates, Expanding Partnerships 35:18 Sponsors Enable Genuine Connections 38:49 County Administrators Sharing Knowledge 44:03 Role Modeling Through Leadership 46:11 Education: Tools Beyond Experience 48:23 "Advancing Our Association's Future" 51:38 Music, Family, and Outdoor Life talkofthecounty@franklincountyohio.gov Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

    58 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Franklin County Media is your source for the latest content from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the 15 agencies that directly report to them. Not only will you be able to check out original Franklin County Podcasts such as "Talk of the County Podcast", this feed will keep you informed, engaged, and connected with the initiatives and developments shaping our community. Franklin County Media is your go-to destination for accessing county government and learning how we're serving every resident, every day.

Information

  • Creator
    Franklin County Board of Commissioners
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners
  • Show Website
    Franklin County Media