Inside Northwest Columbus

Lisa Federico

Welcome to Inside Northwest Columbus, the premier Columbus Ohio community podcast celebrating the vibrant business community and inspiring stories that make Columbus, Ohio extraordinary. As the audio companion to Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle magazine, each episode takes you inside the lives of local entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community champions who are shaping our community's future. This Columbus lifestyle podcast helps you discover the passion projects, innovative ventures, and heartwarming human interest stories that define Columbus living at its finest. From established Columbus business owners sharing their journey to success, to emerging northwest Columbus entrepreneurs making their mark, we spotlight the positive energy and creative spirit that drives our community forward.  Whether you're a Columbus resident looking for inspiration, a business owner seeking connection with like-minded professionals, or simply someone who loves uplifting stories about real people making a real difference, Inside Northwest Columbus offers the perfect blend of Columbus business insights and feel-good content that celebrates everything we love about calling Columbus home.  Our luxury lifestyle Columbus podcast features authentic conversations, practical wisdom, and the kind of stories that remind us why Columbus is more than just a place we live – it's a community we're proud to be part of. Each episode delivers Columbus local news and events coverage alongside Columbus business owner spotlights, giving you the inside scoop on what makes our Columbus business community thrive.  Join us for genuine conversations with the people behind Columbus's most exciting ventures, from innovative startups to established community pillars. Every episode of this Columbus business insights podcast brings you closer to the entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers who are writing the next chapter of Columbus's success story. New episodes featuring the best of Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle magazine, bringing you closer to the people and businesses that make our community shine

  1. Reinventing the Dream: From MLB to Home Remodeling

    MAR 18

    Reinventing the Dream: From MLB to Home Remodeling

    For eight seasons, Mike Mayers competed at the highest level of professional baseball — pitching for organizations including the St. Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Angels, and Kansas City Royals. Life on the mound demanded preparation, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure. Today, that same mindset fuels a very different pursuit. In this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, I sit down with Mike, owner of The Designery Columbus, to talk about his transition from Major League Baseball to the world of home design and remodeling — and why his new showroom at 329 W. Bridge Street in Dublin represents more than just a retail space. It represents clarity in an industry often defined by overwhelm. We discuss identity shifts, leadership, and the surprising parallels between professional sports and building kitchens, baths, and everyday living spaces. From real-time 3D design renderings and virtual walkthroughs to a culture rooted in teamwork and accountability, Mike shares how The Designery is redefining the remodeling experience for homeowners across Central Ohio. If you’ve ever felt anxious about making big design decisions — or wondered how someone pivots from the mound to managing a design-build firm — this episode offers perspective, honesty, and inspiration. Mike Mayers  Owner, The Designery Columbus The Designery Columbus is a Central Ohio design and remodeling firm offering cabinetry, countertops, and full-service design-build solutions for kitchens, baths, closets, laundry rooms, home offices, and more. Their new showroom opens March 12 at 329 W. Bridge Street in Dublin. www.thedesignerycolumbus.com

    27 min
  2. The Future of Outdoor Living- w/ Mike Chekanoff - The Exterior Living Company

    MAR 11

    The Future of Outdoor Living- w/ Mike Chekanoff - The Exterior Living Company

    As the days get longer and homeowners begin thinking about how they want to live outside this season — and for years to come — outdoor living has become more than a backyard upgrade. It’s become an extension of the home itself. In this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, I sit down with Mike Chekanoff, owner of The Exterior Living Company, to talk about the evolution of outdoor living in our community. What was once a simple deck or patio is now being designed with the same intention as a kitchen renovation or great room addition — focused on connection, flow, and long-term livability. We talk about Mike’s roots in the building trades, how he built his company right here in Northwest Columbus, and why thoughtful design — not just features — is driving today’s biggest outdoor trends. From seamless indoor-outdoor transitions and elevation strategy to motorized screens, phased outdoor kitchens, and four-season comfort, this conversation explores how outdoor spaces are becoming calmer, more functional, and truly integrated with the home. If you’ve ever looked at your backyard and imagined something more — or wondered what makes an outdoor space feel cohesive instead of chaotic — this episode offers clarity, insight, and inspiration for designing spaces that are built to last. Visit & Connect with The Exterior Living Company Mike Chekanoff  Owner, The Exterior Living Company The Exterior Living Company is a Northwest Columbus–based design-build firm specializing in custom decks, sunrooms, and outdoor living spaces. With decades of hands-on experience in the building trades, Mike is known for his thoughtful, design-forward approach that prioritizes cohesion with the home, long-term functionality, and timeless materials. Website: www.exteriorliving.co

    35 min
  3. A Community Gem: Inside High Road Gallery

    FEB 25

    A Community Gem: Inside High Road Gallery

    You may know the name High Road Gallery — you may have driven past it, attended an opening, or heard it mentioned in conversation — but most people don’t truly understand what this gallery is, who it exists for, or why it matters. In this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, I sit down with resident artists and gallery stewards Nicky Robie and Beth Heisey to explore the deeper story behind High Road Gallery. This nonprofit space was created to showcase local artists, foster meaningful connection, and make art accessible — all within a nearly 200-year-old historic building that has become a quiet anchor in our community. We talk about the gallery’s founding vision, how artists stepped into stewardship of both a creative mission and a historic space, and what it actually takes to keep local art visible, supported, and thriving. This conversation pulls back the curtain on the role community-supported art plays in shaping a place — and why supporting spaces like High Road Gallery is about investing in culture, creativity, and connection. If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a local gallery, why community art spaces matter, or how supporting local artists strengthens the fabric of where we live, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and a renewed appreciation for a true local gem. Visit & Connect with High Road Gallery Gallery Location: 12 E Stafford Ave, Worthington, OH 43085 Gallery Hours: Friday – Saturday | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Hours may vary — check ahead before visiting) Website: https://www.highroadgallery.com Email: info@highroadgallery.com Whether you visit, attend an exhibition, share their story, or choose to support their mission, High Road Gallery is one of those places that becomes even more meaningful once you understand what it’s all about.

    33 min
  4. From Morning Rituals to Community Gatherings: Barrel & Bloom & Endeavor Brewing

    FEB 18

    From Morning Rituals to Community Gatherings: Barrel & Bloom & Endeavor Brewing

    By day, Barrel & Bloom is a welcoming coffee house designed for connection, conversation, and community. At 2pm, the space transforms into Endeavor Brewing — a craft distillery producing small-batch gin, whiskey, and bourbon across two locations. In this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, we sit down with owners Jen Gerhard and Scott Talmage to explore how intentional design, time-based experiences, and community-driven events shape everything they do. From morning rituals to evening spirits, this conversation goes beyond what’s in the cup or glass — and into how modern businesses can become true gathering places. A lot of people don’t realize that some of the most meaningful community spaces today aren’t churches, offices, or traditional venues — they’re thoughtfully designed local businesses. In this conversation, Jen and Scott break down: 1. Why they intentionally created a space that evolves throughout the day 2. How coffee, spirits, and events each serve different community needs 3. What it takes to host inclusive, welcoming gatherings 4. How small-batch craft and shared experiences build real connection Whether you’re a regular customer, a creative entrepreneur, or someone who values local community, this episode reframes what hospitality can look like. Please visit Barrel & Bloom (and their amazing Bischoff Lattes!!) from 8:30am - 2:00pm at 2365 Dublin Granville Rd in Linworth.  After 2pm Barrel & Bloom becomes Endeavor Brewing serving their locally made Gin, Whiskey, Bourbon and more!  To learn more about Barrel & Bloom and Endeavor Brewing please visit www.endeavorbrewing.com

    36 min
  5. Rewiring the Brain: What Neurofeedback Actually Does for ADD, Anxiety & TBI

    FEB 4

    Rewiring the Brain: What Neurofeedback Actually Does for ADD, Anxiety & TBI

    Most people have never heard of neurofeedback — and if they have, they often assume it’s “out there,” experimental, or too good to be true. But for families who have watched their children finally focus, adults who’ve seen anxiety loosen its grip, or individuals recovering from trauma and brain injury, the results can be life-changing. On this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, we’re sitting down with Joe Matessa, founder of BrainTune Columbus, to demystify neurofeedback and explain what it actually does — without hype, without gimmicks. Joe’s journey into neurofeedback began as a personal search for answers when traditional approaches weren’t delivering meaningful change. What he discovered was a powerful, non-invasive technology that helps the brain regulate itself — often producing noticeable improvements in focus, emotional regulation, sleep, and resilience. In this conversation, Joe breaks down how neurofeedback works, who it’s best suited for, and why it’s gaining traction among parents, professionals, and healthcare practitioners alike. We also address skepticism head-on — because informed curiosity is the first step to real understanding. If you’ve ever wondered whether there are options beyond medication or talk therapy — or if you simply want to better understand how the brain can be trained to function more efficiently — this episode will expand your perspective. To learn more about BrainTune Columbus, visit www.braintunecolumbus.com

    34 min
  6. Mr. Sandman…🎵🎵 Bring Me a Dream

    JAN 28

    Mr. Sandman…🎵🎵 Bring Me a Dream

    If better sleep is on your wellness list this year — you’re going to love this episode. In our January Health & Wellness issue of Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle, we featured Rich and Kim Hanschu, owners of Sandman Sleep, a locally owned mattress showroom with a completely different approach to helping people sleep well. If you missed the article, you can read it at:   https://www.citylifestyle.com/northwestcolumbus/issues/2026-01 Today, we’re taking that story even further. Most people walk into a big-box mattress store and leave more confused than when they arrived. Too many choices… too much sales pressure… and a whole lot of guessing. Rich and Kim built Sandman Sleep to fix all of that. They’ve created a showroom where you can test every mattress they carry — in one place — without the overwhelm, without the gimmicks, and without feeling rushed. In this episode, we dig into: Why your current mattress may be the hidden cause of back pain, poor sleep, and low energy The biggest mistakes people make when choosing a mattress  How Sandman’s unique “try everything in one place” model helps customers avoid costly mistakes Why mattress shopping doesn’t have to feel like car shopping Their journey as local business owners and what inspired them to build Sandman Sleep What Columbus customers are most surprised to learn when they visit their showroom If you want to wake up feeling rested, supported, and genuinely comfortable — this conversation will give you the clarity you’ve been missing. Visit Sandman Sleep:  Showroom: 5929 Sawmill Rd, Suite 200, Dublin, OH  Showroom Hours:  – Monday–Friday: 10am–6pm  – Saturday: 10am–5pm  – Sunday: 12pm–4pm  Phone: 614-547-7664 Website: https://sandmansleep.net/showroom-columbus/

    36 min

About

Welcome to Inside Northwest Columbus, the premier Columbus Ohio community podcast celebrating the vibrant business community and inspiring stories that make Columbus, Ohio extraordinary. As the audio companion to Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle magazine, each episode takes you inside the lives of local entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community champions who are shaping our community's future. This Columbus lifestyle podcast helps you discover the passion projects, innovative ventures, and heartwarming human interest stories that define Columbus living at its finest. From established Columbus business owners sharing their journey to success, to emerging northwest Columbus entrepreneurs making their mark, we spotlight the positive energy and creative spirit that drives our community forward.  Whether you're a Columbus resident looking for inspiration, a business owner seeking connection with like-minded professionals, or simply someone who loves uplifting stories about real people making a real difference, Inside Northwest Columbus offers the perfect blend of Columbus business insights and feel-good content that celebrates everything we love about calling Columbus home.  Our luxury lifestyle Columbus podcast features authentic conversations, practical wisdom, and the kind of stories that remind us why Columbus is more than just a place we live – it's a community we're proud to be part of. Each episode delivers Columbus local news and events coverage alongside Columbus business owner spotlights, giving you the inside scoop on what makes our Columbus business community thrive.  Join us for genuine conversations with the people behind Columbus's most exciting ventures, from innovative startups to established community pillars. Every episode of this Columbus business insights podcast brings you closer to the entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers who are writing the next chapter of Columbus's success story. New episodes featuring the best of Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle magazine, bringing you closer to the people and businesses that make our community shine