21-WFMJ News Podcast: Recent Episodes
21-WFMJ Newsroom
On this week's episode of The Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell speaks with reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy about the importance of transparency from city governments regarding data center plans.
In this episode of The Vibe, Nicole Kapalko and Steve Vesey are joined by the three brothers behind local Puerto Rican food truck and restaurant Red Rican about its origins, its current state and its future.
Meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo sits down with Dr. Benjamin Brocker, physician at Mercy Health Family Medicine, to discuss the signs and what to do if your child is experiencing heat-related illness.
In this episode of The Score, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash catches up with The Greatest Golfer founder Todd Franko about the outlet and its history.
This week, on The Outcue podcast, News Director Sheila Miller and Anchor/Reporter Derek Steyer discuss the daily work of a newsroom to inform the public promptly while ensuring reporting covers the entire story.
21 News Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm discusses 'official weather observations,' and Nick Moliterno, Field Operations Data Technician at the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport, joins him.
Across the country, official weather data come from airports. Nick is the Senior Weather Observer and talks about what he does in this role.
In this episode of The Score, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash catches up with Sharon Speedway General Manager Dave Willoughby to talk about the racetrack and its 97-year history.
This week, on The Outcue podcast, hosts Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren and Reporter Ally Ross are discussing the word “transparency”, especially when it comes to the relationship between news media outlets and local government officials, in addition to the importance of communication between the two parties.
As folks gear up for summer, Nicole Kapalko and Steve Vesey are talking grilling and swimming plus summer night fire pits. Scott Jones, the owner of Youngstown Propane and Bob Ballone, the owner of Austintown Pools & Spas, stop by to offer their best tips for the upcoming summer days and nights.
In today's episode of The Radar, 21 News Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm talks with Conner O'Halloran, the new director of the Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency.
They discuss the new role and his role during weather emergencies in the county.
Dana Balash sits down with Bob Beam, high school coordinator at Bob Cene Park, and Scott Ruark, president of Youngstown Class B Baseball, to speak on the history and current operations at Bob Cene Park. Bob Cene Park, a baseball park in Struthers, opened its first ballpark in 1996. The park is now home to several area high school baseball teams and tournaments with three fields on Bob Cene Way.
In this 21 News Podcast, Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren talks with Valley author James Thomas about his travels with a Lowellville man in the early 1970s... unbeknownst to Thomas, this man was a serial killer.
Hear how the two met and how Thomas learned that someone he knew confessed to killing at least 14 people.
In today’s 21 News journalist podcast, The Outcue, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell speaks with reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy and Weekend anchor/reporter Leslie Huff.
Today, they discuss transparency regarding the local JobsOhio division, Lake to River, which focuses on economic development and growth, and receives funding from taxpayers from liquor sales, but refuses to
While Lake to River held its annual meeting on Wednesday in the Valley, we were there to ask about recent efforts by lawmakers to demand transparency from the organization on its spending.
In this episode of The Vibe, Nicole Kapalko and Steve Vesey catch up with Kelly Dolan from Duncan Bath & Kitchen Center to talk about ways to make your home look a little nicer.
In this episode of The Radar, Stormtracker 21 Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm catches up with two local science teachers about how they implement weather into their lessons.
In today's The Score podcast, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash is joined by Warren Harding's Girls Flag Football coach Justin Blair. Now its second season, flag football has come a long way, with the Warren girls making it to the championship round in its inaugural season. Learn how it works and see where the sport may be headed.
In today’s Outcue episode, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell speaks with reporter Ally Ross and anchor/reporter Corey McCrae on their in-depth work in the latest ‘101 West. Data Centers: Deal or Dilemma.’
Also joining them is 21 News digital content manager Robert McFerren, who talks about the new WFMJ website and app.
Hear the stories behind the stories right here on this podcast.
In this episode of The Vibe, WFMJ Today’s Nicole Kapalko and Steve Vesey catch up with Parks Garden Center owner Tim Parks about gardening in the Mahoning Valley and preparing for growing season in the Mahoning Valley.
In today's episode of The Radar, Meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo and Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm discuss the winter weather of the past few months and how we arrived at meteorological spring. They will also dig into what we should be on the lookout for as summer makes its way onto the horizon in the coming months.
In this episode of The Score, 21 WFMJ Sports Director talks with YSU football Head Coach Doug Phillips, reflecting on the 2025 season and looking forward to the 2026 season.
This week on The Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell, Reporter & Anchor Leslie Huff and Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren discuss property tax and why it has been such a hot button issue among residents and government leaders. They explain where your property tax money goes, plus why some are so passionate about abolishing property taxes entirely. The team also goes in depth on the importance of reporting topics that might be more difficult to understand.
On this episode of The Vibe, WFMJ Today's Nicole Kapalko and Steve Vesey talk with Branch Street Coffee owner Matthew Campbell about the Mahoning Valley's unique coffee community.
On this episode of The Radar, Storm Tracker 21 Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm talks with fellow weather geek Ralph Mack all about tempest and personal weather stations and how they work.
In this episode of The Score, 21 WFMJ Sports Director talks with Chuck Parker, an assigner with the Ohio High School Athletic Association, to talk about all about his role.
In today's The Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell talks with reporter Ally Ross and Chief Videographer Pat Connelly about covering weather-related news.
They discuss weather coverage, such as the recent snowfall, and help our community stay informed.
On this episode of The Vibe, Kristyn Wolf, a counselor with Equinox Sex and Relationship Counseling, describes ways you can improve your personal relationships and how your body responds to emotional stress.
In today's The Radar Podcast, 21 News chief meteorologist and podcast host Eric Wilhelm is joined by Andrew DiPaolo and Gavin Sandel, who are discussing their jobs as Valley meteorologists.
They discuss the weather field, what led each of them to pursue it, and the changes over the years.
In today's The Score podcast, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash is joined by Tracy Innocent, Youngstown State University's travel specialist, who handles all modes of transportation when it comes to sports and the university.
The 19 different sports teams at the university keep Innocent busy. Hear how she handles getting all the student-athletes to their destinations, especially during busy seasons when multiple teams all play during the same period.
Welcome to The Vibe and Happy Holidays!
Your podcast hosts, Nicole Kalpalko and Steve Vesey, are discussing New Year's Resolutions.
Joining them to discuss diet and fitness for 2026 are Deborah Caggiano, a trainer/clinical dietitian, and Kelly Scott, a registered dietitian, who also discuss self-care.
In today's The Radar podcast, WFMJ Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm discusses winter weather and how we deal with it.
Joining Eric are Ohio Department of Transportation District 4 Public Information Officers Ray Marsch and Justin Chesnic, who share how ODOT prepares for bad weather, including how treating roads for snow, sleet and freezing rain has changed over the years.
In this episode of The Score, 21 Sports' Dana Balash catches up with Newton Falls basketball coach Roy Sembach to talk about his 39 years and counting of coaching the Newton Falls basketball team.
In this episode of The Outcue, members of the 21 News team discuss in-depth all that was revealed to them as they researched for the recent 101 West news program "Hazing - The Code of Silence."
How this months-long work helped paint a clearer picture of how prevalent hazing is in Ohio and the nation.
Happy Thanksgiving, and thanks for joining the Vibe podcast.
Hosts Nicole Kalpalko and Jodie White are joined by the Eastwood Mall Marketing team, Bri Ventimiglia and Chloe Schutlz, discussing the holiday shopping season and the prep that goes into making Black Friday an event at the mall.
On this episode of The Radar, 21 News Meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo and Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm discuss what winter is shaping up to look like in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys this year.
On today's The Score podcast, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash speaks with Vindicator/Tribune Chronicle Sports Editor Dan Hiner about the Valley teams left in the playoffs and also discusses Youngstown State University football.
Also discussed is the future of football at Ursuline for next season, following the cancellation of this year's season.
In this episode of The Outcue, 21 WFMJ News Director Shiela Miller sits down with former News Director Mona Alexander and Second Harvest Food Bank Executive Director Mike Iberis to talk all about 21 WFMJ's Feed Our Valley campaign.
The general election is Tuesday, and 21 News shares how we cover candidates and tax levies - to inform you about issues you will need to cast your vote on. Assistant news editor Justin Mitchell is joined by 5pm anchor Lindsay McCoy and discuss election coverage.
They discuss the 5@5, where races and issues are discussed, and how we help you get to know the candidates.
In today's Vibe podcast, hosts Nicole Kalpalko and Jodie White share some scary events that are happening right here in the Valley. Joining them are cast members from "The Nightmare in Niles," including Mr. Mange.
They discuss the move from Canfield to Niles, how they have been hosting Halloween events for 45 years and what's changed at their new location.
On the episode of The Radar, meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo sits down with Mill Creek Metroparks educator Lynn Zocolo to discuss fall weather and when we can expect to see that beautiful fall foliage this year.
In today's The Score podcast, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash is joined by Tyler Burk, Assistant Athletic Director and the Director of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) for the Youngstown State University Athletic Department.
Burk explains his role in NIL, working with student-athletes to help them navigate sponsorship deals and build brands while staying NCAA compliant.
A 2021 US Supreme Court ruling, which found in favor of students, allowed athletes to earn money from their own personal branding opportunities. The NCAA subsequently changed its policy.
Learn about his role in helping students at YSU and how quickly deals were made for student-athletes.
In today's Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell is joined by reporters Ally Ross and Kaitlyn McCarthy, discussing the critical role that you, our viewers, play in helping stories make it on the air with valuable tips that we investigate.
Kaitlyn shares her recent story about how a tip led us to learn of Mercy Health's potential loss of Medicare accreditation. At the same time, Ally speaks on her recent report on gray areas of reporting suspected child abuse to Children's Services from a teacher tipster.
If you have a news tip you want to share for us to investigate, you can call the newsroom at 330-744-8821; email us at news@wfmj.com or watchdog@wfmj.com. You can also message us on Facebook Messenger.
In this episode of The Vibe, 21 News's Jodie White and Nicole Kapalko are joined by Steve Johnson, AKA Farmer Steve, from Apple Castle in New Wilmington to talk all about apples.
In this month's 21 News podcast 'The Radar,' WFMJ chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm speaks with Tim Stuart, Youngstown State University's Senior Associate Director of Athletics, on how the university prepares for and monitors weather conditions for its outdoor events.
With outdoor fall sports like football, golf, tennis, and soccer currently taking place, the weather is always on everyone's mind for safety.
On this episode of The Score, 21 News Sports Director Dana Balash is joined by Mark Porter of Scouting Ohio to learn all about the website and what it does for student athletes in the Mahoning Valley and beyond.
Pursuing some news stories is more difficult when they involve private businesses or private schools.
For example, while rumors of allegations of what Ursuline officials called "inappropriate behavior" involving students during the June football trip have been circulating, they are not reportable. Sometimes, unanswered questions from an official when serious allegations arise are the story.
In today's Outcue Podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell is joined by anchor/reporter Madison Tromler and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren, discussing how we cover stories like this, when the police report on the initial report was heavily redacted and following where the facts take us.
Jodie White and Jimmy Wendolek sit down with Canfield Fair Director of Entertainment George Roman to talk about what's new and everything else you can expect to find at the 179th Canfield Fair.
In today's Radar podcast, 21 News chief meteorologist Eric Wilhem is joined by Curt Spivey, Planetarium Engineer for Youngstown State University. Spivey discusses what is going on at Ward Beecher Hall, which houses the astronomy center, and some of the astronomical events for the rest of this year and next.
In today's Score podcast, 21 Sports Director Dana Balash discusses High School Football, which begins next week. Joining Dana are Valley sports historian Champ Summers, along with YSN founder DJ Yokley, who discuss the 2025 high school football season, from changes in coaching to looking at the local teams and their divisions. The Score is a monthly podcast for sports enthusiasts around the Mahoning and Shenango valleys.
In today's 21 News Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell is joined by 21 News reporter Ally Ross and Weekend Today anchor/reporter Leslie Huff, who discuss all the news coming out of Trumbull County.
The stories discussed include a Foxconn update, the uptick of violence in Warren, and the possible reopening of Insight hospitals.
Warren's law director said fighting crime was like a game of Whack-a-Mole, but Ross said that efforts to curb violence by closing businesses only caused the crimes to move. "At a certain point, you have to unplug the [Whack-a-Mole] game."
There is also the discussion on two Trumbull hospitals saying it is looking to reopen in the coming weeks, but were unable to provide solid answers on how.
In today's Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks with the Senior Digital Content Manager, Robert McFerren, about what Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics manufacturer, may announce regarding something coming to the former Lordstown GM plant. Foxconn, part of Hon Hai Technology Group in Taiwan, announced Wednesday that they were working with TECO Electric & Machinery Co., which owns Westinghouse and builds engines in Texas, on AI data centers. While not much is currently known about what to expect here, Mitchell and McFerren discuss some of the potential options based on recent news from the company.
Vibe hosts Jimmy Wendolek and Jodie White discuss the Panerathon — a 10K/2 Mile Walk/Run held in downtown Youngstown — which benefits the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center. The annual event attracts thousands of people to Youngstown.
Joining our hosts are Marie Strange with Mercy Help Foundation Mahoning Valley and Carson Ryan, Race Director for JAC Live.
Panerathon is scheduled to take place on August 24.
In today's 21 News podcast, The Radar, WFMJ's chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm talks about all the people who submit those beautiful weather photos to us here at WFMJ.
Joining Eric is local weather photographer Dan Owens, who lives in Springfield Township and enjoys sharing his stunning photographic work, including images of lightning storms and other weather events. Dan shares his stories of his photography work and why he enjoys it.
If you would like to share your weather pics, please send them to us at weatherpics@wfmj.com
This week on The Score, Dana Balash sits down with Youngstown Bishop David Bonnar to talk about sports including his favorite teams and players, as well as his time as Chaplain for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In today's The Outcue podcast, assistant news director Justin Mitchell talks with guests 21 News reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren. All have worked on investigating and reporting on the sale of the Southern Park Mall, the new ownership, and some of the troubles the new ownership has experienced at other shopping malls it has owned nationwide.
Today's discussion focuses on why we cover stories like the sale of the mall and why we do follow-ups.
The mall is a private business; yet, it has a significant impact on residents of Boardman Township and Mahoning County through the taxes the facility generates and the people it employs.
The discussion looks back at when we first heard rumblings of an impending sale through the late tax payments for the first half of the year. The late payments cause the township to change its plans for purchases, and discuss why it is crucial to keep our community informed on stories like this.
In this episode of The Vibe, Jimmy Wendolek and Jodie White sit down with Eric Ryan of JAC Management and Alyssa Connelly-Bissett of Sunrise Entertainment discuss several upcoming concerts in the Mahoning Valley.
21 Storm Tracker Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm and guest weather enthusiast Ralph Mack talk about how to be a weather geek including how to set up your own personal weather station and rain gauges, which ones are best and how much they cost, what you learn in a SKYWARN training session and what kind of weather forums there are fore weather hobbyists.
On this week's episode of The Score, 21 News's Dana Balash catches up with former Major League Baseball umpire John Hirschbeck.
This week on The Outcue, 21 News 5pm producer Brandon Brown discusses everything that goes into getting 21 News at 5pm on the air every day.
In today's Outcue podcast, we look back on the first anniversary of the Realty Building explosion, which killed one and injured nine people after workers cut into a natural gas line.
The explosion sent shockwaves through our community, literally and figuratively.
Joining Outcue host Justin Mitchell are three reporters, Kaitlyn McCarthy, Sydney Canty, and Madison Tromler, who have covered the stories, including new information released by the National Transportation Safety Board on the explosion, as well as plans for the site.
The Vibe podcast hosts, meteorologists Jodie White and Jimmy Wendolek, talk with Luke Shelton of Pure Flight Disc Golf of Boardman.
With the warm temperatures of spring and summer come people looking to try new outdoor games, like disc golf.
Hear about the sport's history and places where you can get supplies for local courses.
In today's The Radar podcast, 21 News chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm looks back at the 40th anniversary of the May 31, 1985, tornado outbreak that impacted the Valley and Northwest Pennsylvania, and beyond, leaving behind death and destruction.
Joining Eric is Chris Cerenelli, 21 News weekend anchor and weather forecaster, along with meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo, talking about what happened that day.
This week on The Score, Dana Balash talks with the YSU Bowling Team who just brought home the National Championship.
The Youngstown State University bowling team defeated Jacksonville State in the National Championship match, 4-3 April 12.
This marked the first women's National Championship title in school history plus the school's first since 1997.
In today's episode of The Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell discusses building trust in our reporting with Corey McCrae, weekend anchor and reporter at 21 News, and Robert McFerren, Senior Digital Content Manager.
We discuss how we built trust with sources in a case involving a Goshen Township dog breeder that was sentenced last week. From vetting sources to verifying facts, we examine how trust and truth are two of the most important aspects for a journalist to have and to seek.
This week on The Vibe lifestyle podcast, hosts Jodie White and Jimmy Wendolek speak with Brooke Klenke, owner of 3 Maples on Market, located in North Lima, who talks about everything tomatoes and the 51 heirloom varieties she grows and sells.
Klenke also talks about varieties that may be best for you and your garden.
The Vibe, a monthly podcast, offers information on entertainment, pop culture, and events around the Valley.
Everyone is excited for the warm temperatures of Spring. But no one likes allergy season, with pollen from the flowers blooming, the buds on trees growing, and the weeds growing.
In today's latest installment of 'The Radar,' a 21 News podcast about everything impacted by weather and weather-related stories, meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo speaks with Dr. Benjamin Brocker with Mercy Health, who discusses seasonal pollen and ways to lessen your exposure to these elements.
21 Sports Director Dana Balash is joined by Curbstone Coaches President Bob Camardo and First Vice President Tom Miller. They discuss who they are, what they do, and their upcoming annual Hall of Fame banquet.
The non-profit was formed in 1958 when members of the Mahoning Valley's sports media recognized a need to create a group that would meet weekly and allow Valley sports fans to participate in programs concerning topics in athletics.
In today's 21 News podcast, 'The Outcue,' 21 News Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell sits down with reporter/weekend anchor Sydney Canty and reporter Leslie Huff to discuss the ongoing developments at Insight Hospital & Medical Center Trumbull.
The trio discusses the rapid events that led to the shutdown of the hospital, Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital and satellite offices in the Valley.
The discussion explores the impact on Trumbull County, the people, and the employees notified of the closing on the day of, who did not receive their paychecks, lost their healthcare insurance, and have an uncertain future.
The Vibe is a 21 News podcast hosted by Jodi White and Jimmy Wendolek, who will bring you information on entertainment, pop culture, and events around the Mahoning and Shenango valleys and the region.
In its debut episode, the hosts discuss the spring planting season with guests Laura Barovich of Joe's Greenhouse and Farm Market in Hermitage and Kim Sisco from White House Fruit Farm in Green Township.
This week, 21 News Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm introduces the new weather-related 21 News podcast, "The Radar."
This week is severe weather awareness week in Ohio, and Tyler Berry, a local storm chaser and weather enthusiast with his outfit "Chasing Ohio," will join Eric to discuss severe weather.
Other weather-related stories will air on "The Radar" in the next few months, including a 21 News Meteorologist discussing allergies that come with the changing seasons.
In May, Eric and 21 News Weekend Anchor and weather forecaster Chris Cerenelli will discuss the 40th anniversary of the deadly May 31, 1985 tornado that tore through Niles and Wheatland, Pa.
'The Score' is a 21 News podcast hosted by 21 Sports Director Dana Balash that will discuss all things sports around the Valley. Youngstown State University Executive Director of Athletics Ron Strollo joins Dana in the debut episode. Their conversation provides an overview of the YSU athletic department and its recent men’s basketball appearance in the Horizon League Championship.
Today's Outcue isn't a look behind the story but an introduction to 21 News' expansion of its podcasts — adding three additional podcasts that will join The Outcue to our lineup.
Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell sits down with meteorologists Jodie White and Jimmy Wendolek, who talk about their new podcast called The Vibe, which will bring you information on entertainment and events around the region; and in the second half, Mitchell is joined by 21 News Sports Director Dana Balash and 21 News chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm, who speak about the new sports podcast 'The Score' and 'The Radar,' a weather-related podcast.
Here is the lineup for the additional 21 News podcast and premiere dates:
March 13: The Score
March 20: The Radar
March 27: The Vibe
In today's Outcue podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy discuss the four-part Watchdog Investigation into JobsOhio, a non-profit organization that receives state liquor profits for funding. However, for transparency's sake, the spending of these public funds can't be viewed once given to the private entity. McCarthy discussed JobsOhio with Democrats and Republicans, some of whom shared their concerns about the corporation's lack of transparency and some about issues with the organization itself. The Outcue will now be posted weekly every Thursday morning and listen for next week's Outcue, where we will introduce three new additional podcasts that will be added to our rotation. 'The Score' — a sports-based podcast with Dana Balash, will premiere on March 13, followed by 'The Radar' with 21 News chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm and meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo discussing weather on March 20, and 'The Vibe,' an entertainment, events and culture in the Valley, hosted by Jodi White and Jimmy Wendolek beginning March 27.
This week on the story-behind-the-story podcast, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell is joined by some of the reporters who have spent the last two years covering the toxic train derailment that occurred in East Palestine, quickly followed by the decision to vent and burn the hazardous chemicals inside the derailed tanker cars.
Joining Mitchell to reflect and share stories from this anchor/reporter Derek Steyer, anchor/reporter Madison Tromler and weekend anchor/reporter Corey McCrae. All share insight and look at what has and hasn't been done in the last two years involving East Palestine and rail safety.
In today's 21 News podcast 'The Outcue,' Assistant News director Justin Mitchell talks with 11 pm Anchor/Reporter Erin Simonek and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren about what it is like to cover breaking news on the fly while gathering information to report to viewers.
The journalists discuss this week's announcement by the White House that it was using an executive order to freeze all federal grants and loans to review the spending and the process of gathering information for breaking news stories.
If you have a story idea or something you want us to investigate, you can call the newsroom at 330-744-8821, email news@wfmj.com or watchdog@wfmj.com.
The second season of the 21 WFMJ News podcast begins today.
In today's episode, assistant news director Justin Mitchell talks with 21 News reporters Leslie Huff and Kaitlyn McCarthy and two stories we covered this week.
The first story-behind-the-story is ongoing in-depth coverage of the fast changes happening with Sharon Regional Medical Center, from the last-minute deal with Tenor Health to the Buhl Legacy Trust's statement that it is not backing down in litigation over the hospital.
The second story discusses a story we broke about Congressman Mike Rulli's (OH-6) decision to hire a man as his congressional communications director who was forced to repay tens of thousands of dollars as part of an alleged fake charity scheme set up purporting to assist the residents of East Palestine.
If you have a news story you think we should cover or a news tip that needs investigated, email us at news@wfmj.com, watchdog@wfmj.com, or call the newsroom at 330-744-8821.
In the final two-part episode of season one of the Outcue, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell discusses some of the big news stories in the Mahoning and Shenango valleys in 2024 with the reporters that covered them.
Mitchell will be joined in part two by reporter/weekend anchor Chris Cerenelli, reporter/ 6 p.m. anchor Madison Tromler, and reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy.
Listen to the stories behind the stories as told by the people on the front lines.
Also, watch for the daily Year in Review posting to WFMJ.com, which will be posted every day through December 31 and recall some of the bigger news stories of the year. Each day will cover one month until we reach the end of the year on New Year's Eve.
Thank you for listening, and we will be back next year with Season 2.
In the final two-part episode of season one of the Outcue, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell discusses all the big news stories in the Mahoning and Shenango valleys in 2024.
Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren joins Justin in part one. They discuss the news stories we reported on each month throughout 2024, which was a very busy year with many big stories.
Listen to the stories behind the stories in covering the events, and stay tuned to next Friday for part two, in which Mitchell talks with the reporters about some of the big stories and their stories and perspectives behind them.
Also, watch for the daily Year in Review posting to WFMJ.com, which will be posted every day through December 31 and recall some of the bigger news stories of the year. Each day will cover one month until we reach the end of the year on New Year's Eve.
Part Two will be posted to WFMJ.com on December 27.
In today's Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell and reporter/WFMJ Weekend Today anchor Sydney Canty discuss understanding complex court filings and other similar complicated stories that reporters have to deal with in the day-to-day duties of doing their job — and make them understandable for all.
Canty discusses her story earlier this week on the Ohio Supreme Court ruling that Trumbull and Lake counties' federal lawsuit against major pharmacy chains over their roles in contributing to the opioid crisis was not based on the correct law and cannot move forward.
Canty shares with Mitchell some of the complex stories she has covered and how reporters learn to gather and sort through information quickly and accurately.
On today's Outcue, we talk about Public Records Requests, what they are, what they do, and why they are becoming increasingly more difficult to obtain.
What is a public records request? Government offices are paid for with taxpayers' money, and you have the right to view the documents, records, and data within the office.
According to the Ohio Attorney General's office, "The public’s right to access such information is a cornerstone of our democracy. So, in a very real sense, this [Ohio Sunshine Law Manual] equips Ohioans with the knowledge they need to keep watch over the officials they elect and the agencies that are in place at every level of state government."
Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren discuss some of the issues and ways public officials have found ways to battle public records requests.
21 News Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and reporter Leslie Huff sit down to discuss Feed Our Valley, a campaign started by 21 News in 2007 to raise awareness of those in need in our community and to get food to those in need.
This partnership with Second Harvest Foodbank and Sparkle Markets has helped Valley residents for 18 years.
Huff shares what she has learned covering the food needs of our Vally residences.
21 News Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and anchor/reporter Madison Tromler discuss the two-part Watchdog Report investigation into the conditions inside Ohio's only privately run county jail in Columbiana County.
An anonymous source contacted 21 News over conditions inside the facility, leading to a multi-week investigation.
Watch to see what this deep-dive investigation found, what is happening inside the facility, and what steps are being taken to correct the issues.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, discuss behind the scenes in covering stories for you — from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In this week's episode, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks to 21 News chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm and meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo about
weather reality vs. weather rhetoric.
What do people get wrong regarding the science of weather prediction? Why do some people make weather disasters political?
Let's hear what the weather guys hear most often.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In this week's episode, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks to 21 News anchor/reporter Madison Tromler and reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy about when you are first to report a news story and what goes on behind the scenes, sometimes anxiety of breaking that big news story.
Listen to the stories of some big investigations and how the reporters who covered them feel after the story hits the air and the web.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories. Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast. In this week's episode, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell looks behind the scenes with 21 News Coordinating Producer Rachel Kerr and what a news producer does. Many of you may remember that Mary Tyler Moore's character on the classic sitcom was a news producer, but we never saw Mary do much work. Listen and learn about the tasks that go into producing a daily newscast. The podcast name — The Outcue — is a broadcast term meaning the last few words of reporting before the package ends. We hope you enjoy it.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss behind the scenes in covering stories for you — from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In this week's episode, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks with 21 News Director Sheila Miller and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren about the editorial decision-making process that comes with covering sensitive news stories — and what does and doesn't get mentioned — on the air.
The podcast name — The Outcue — is a broadcast term meaning the last few words of reporting before the package ends. We hope you enjoy it.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In this week's episode, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks with 21 Sports reporter Brittany Bissell and sports videographer Dan Pushcar about Friday night football and what goes into covering all the local teams each week during the football season.
Natural gas accidents happen more often than you think. Experts we sought out, including the NTSB, say the lack of state and federal safety regulations is to blame. Could it happen again? Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and Watchdog reporter Madison Tromler discuss the backstories behind the investigation into the Realty building explosion and what needs to change to stop "The Danger Beneath Us."
Assistant news director Justin Mitchell sits down with reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy to talk about her path from working behind the scenes to holding the powerful accountable. McCarthy, a Valley native and YSU graduate, has only been reporting since April, but in that time has broken major developments on the Realty building explosion and exposed potential conflicts of interest at a major development organization.
Turn in every Friday on our YouTube channel or listen to the audio version on all major podcast platforms.
The podcast name - The Outcue - is a broadcast term that means the last few words of reporting before the package ends.
We hope you enjoy it.
In this week's Outcue podcast, 21 News Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren discuss the story behind the story, looking at the fast-changing coverage of the Steward Health bankruptcy filings.
Our coverage has been following the bankruptcy court case in Texas and reporting those looking to place bids for control of Trumbull Regional, Hillside Rehabilitation, and the satellite facilities.
These stories we start working on in the morning may be completely different by the afternoon.
We discuss keeping up with fluid stories like these and the importance of keeping everyone informed on the importance of these hospitals— from caring for the community to providing good-paying jobs to the tax revenue brought in to pay for essential services.
In this week's Outcue, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert discuss the story behind the story of 21 News coverage for months concerning the bankrupt Steward healthcare facilities in the Mahoning and Shenango valleys.
Trumbull Regional Medical Center and Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital, including satellite offices, all received mass layoff notifications this week, with the last date set for September 19 unless someone buys those facilities. Local investors are attempting to get financing to keep the facilities open but are racing against time.
Sharon Regional was granted an extension to August 30 for a group in Pennsylvania attempting to buy the facility. Otherwise, their clock for the shutdown will begin as well.
Our discussion looks at the fallout if the parties attempting to save miss the deadlines and the potential economic impact the Valley has been through many times before.
"The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective on our top news stories, but with a different approach. It talks about the week's biggest story but gives you the perspective of the story behind the story.
This week, assistant news director Justin Mitchell sits down at 5 pm anchor and reporter Lindsay McCoy to discuss how her experience as a reporter helps her in her role as anchor.
The podcast name - The Outcue - is a broadcast term that means the last few words of reporting before the story ends. We hope you enjoy it.
On this edition of the 21 News podcast, 'The Outcue,' Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks with Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren about the drive and burn that makes journalists do what they do.
This podcast explains what happens behind the scenes and the story behind the story.
In this case, we requested all the emergency calls handled by Youngstown Police and Fire Dispatch Center on May 28, the day of the downtown Realty building explosion, after a natural gas line was cut in the facility.
How many calls could that be? In total, there were more than 300 calls. Why go through them now? A reporter's intuition that says we will find a new angle to an ongoing story.
And we did.
We looked into why it took more than two hours for Ohio Edison to respond that day to a severe crisis where water was pouring into the Realty building, and emergency crews needed the electricity shut off to attempt to rescue people from inside the building. We listened as Police and Fire dispatch pleaded and ultimately became frustrated over the lack of timely response, only to find a crew came downtown, saw the roads closed due to the emergency, and allegedly left, according to the 911 calls.
In today's Outcue, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell is joined by 21 News Director Sheila Miller and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren to discuss how we address news bias in coverage in today's political climate.
The newsroom management team discusses how much discussion and thought goes into all newsroom reporting, including political coverage.
This podcast discusses the frame of reference for covering all news -- including political stories -- and our rule as a watchdog over all forms of government, local, state, and national.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it ends.
But the end of what you see on television is often only the story's beginning. This is The Outcue, a journalist's perspective on how we work for you.
In this week's The Outcue, Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell talks with anchor/reporter Madison Tromler, who speaks about the National Transportation Safety Board hearing this week in East Palestine, discussing what caused the February 3, 2023 train derailment and why the vent-and-burn was a botched decision.
The discussion examines the key moments from the day's nearly 8-hour final report that are quickly processed and disseminated to our viewers and readers online and how a reporter's know-how helps identify key moments and findings.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it's over. We know that the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story. This is The Outcue.
The NTSB issued more than two dozen recommendations Tuesday in East Palestine concerning the toxic train derailment and vent and burn of the vinyl chloride that began nearly a year and a half ago. These recommendations found that the rail industry had no standards in place for overheating wheel bearings and detectors and that the chemicals' vent and burn were unnecessary.
21 News anchor Lindsay McCoy sat down with Steven Ditmeyer, a retired executive of the Federal Railroad Administration who has had extensive careers in rail spanning decades, including the research and development of rail safety standards, to discuss the NTSB's findings.
In this week's The Outcue, senior digital content manager Robert McFerren talks about the heat wave that has stalled over the Valley with chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm and meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo.
While the scorching heat has not broken any records yet, the long-range forecast shows we are in for one long, hot, and possibly dry summer. The trend may last well into the fall and winter.
Find out about previous dry trends in the Valley, how this Florida-like weather makes forecasting more difficult, and how it can impact your well-being.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it's over. We know that the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story. This is The Outcue.
After a major breaking news story like the Realty Building explosion, there are often questions that remain.
How did this happen? What are the lessons we can learn from this? And is everyone in charge providing the information the public has a right to know?
In this episode of The Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell sits down with Madison Tromler and Chris Cerenelli to talk about how the thought process has to shift from what's happening right now to the longer view of what the public needs----and has a right---to know.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it ends.
But the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story. This is The Outcue, a journalist's perspective on how we work for you.
In this week's The Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell, anchor Derek Steyer, and chief videographer Pat Connelly discuss covering breaking news in the aftermath of the explosion at the Realty Building from an apparent gas leak.
They discuss how all news stories that everyone is currently working on for that day are paused, and everyone goes into all hands on deck to cover the immediate need to gather news as it happens.
Hear our chief videographer's story of what he heard and saw as he was just down the street when the accident occurred. Also, we hear from Derek Steyer, who was quick on the scene, and his account of the incident.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it's over. We know that the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story.
This is The Outcue.
On this week's Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell sits down with two veteran WFMJ videographers - Ron Martin and Bob 'Bubba' Meluch - who share their stories about their time in the field and talk about stories that will stick with them their entire life.
Our videographers are those who are on the frontlines getting images for broadcast - some happy, uplifting, others from potentially dangerous scenes.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it's over. We know that the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story.
This is The Outcue.
In this week's The Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell, anchor Madison Tromler, and senior digital content manager Robert McFerren discuss stories we cover when someone calls us with concerns over a purchase they have made and are unhappy with the company.
The Latin phrase "caveat emptor," which means "let the buyer beware," alludes to placing the burden of due diligence on the consumer when buying a good or service. However, consumers have rights and call newsrooms with their stories.
Listen to see how we determine what the story is when we receive calls from unhappy customers. Learn about the process we go through to check into the concern.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it's over. We know that the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story.
This is The Outcue.
This week, after months of speculation, Steward Healthcare filed for bankruptcy. The move was not unexpected, but it leaves questions about what its impact will be on the future of healthcare in the Valley. Will hospitals remain open? Will nurses unions remain? Could another hospital system move in and take over?
In this week's The Outcue, assistant news director Justin Mitchell and anchor Madison Tromler discuss what they've been hearing, who they've been talking to and what the sentiment is for those who this move will affect the most.
The Outcue is the term for the last few words of a news story before it's over. We know that the end of what you see on television is often only the beginning of the story. This is The Outcue.
Gene Steratore is the NFL/NCAA Basketball rules analyst for CBS Sports. After a 15 year career on the field, Steratore is now in the broadcast booth.
21 Sports Dana Balash caught up with Steratore and talks about his days in the NFL, in the broadcast arena and more.
In today's 21 News Special Edition of The Outcue, 21 News Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell and anchor/reporter Sydney Canty discuss behind the scenes of this week's 21 News "101 West" on the complicated and often misunderstood perception of human trafficking and how it happens.
The outcue is the term used in the news industry as the final words of a story, but this podcast gives you the opportunity to see the work that went into the story that isn't broadcast.
Our '101 West' deep-dive investigations take months of work to get them ready for air, and in this podcast, we discuss what was learned and reported and what we, as journalists, learned as well.
In case you missed this week's "101 West," click here to watch the program.
In today's 21 News The Outcue S01E09, we update you on the ongoing financial investigation, which started in March in Vienna Township. This small community has been impacted by missing township funds—$1.3 million—leading to layoffs in the emergency services, including police and fire, and township officials working for free. While the state auditor's office is investigating the missing funds, 21 News has also been investigating what is happening. However, this case is complicated. Traditionally, one can make a public record request and see what the money trail shows. Public records are all documents for a village, city, township, state, school district, etc., paid for with taxpayer funds. They can include documents, audio recordings, emails, texts, or instant messages. 21 News Assistant News Director Justin Mitchell, along with anchor/reporter Erin Simonek and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren, discuss the public documents 21 News requested and received and why, in this case, it may not be as simple as following the money trail.
"The Outcue" is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In this episode, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell is joined by 21 News Chief Meteorologist Eric Wilhelm and weather forecaster Chris Cerenelli to discuss what goes on behind the scenes in our weather department to keep you safe during severe weather events like tornadoes like we experienced this week.
Watch it on our YouTube channel or listen to the audio version on all major podcast platforms.
The podcast name — The Outcue — is a broadcast term meaning the last few words of reporting before the news segment ends.
We hope you enjoy it.
In this 21 News podcast, assistant managing editor Justin Mitchell and reporter Kaitlyn McCarthy speak with Hannah Grieco, a nationally recognized expert, author, educator, and advocate for parents of children with developmental disabilities when it comes to education.
After parents raised concerns about the planned sunsetting of an Austintown School district program for children with developmental disabilities, we asked Grieco for her thoughts on incorporating students into 'mainstream' classes and whether or not this was helpful in the long run for all students involved.
More than 100 parents have signed a petition asking the Austintown schools to rethink a decision to eliminate a program for students with disabilities.
The district says the change will benefit all students involved, but some parents are worried their children's needs could be unmet.
Have you ever seen adorable pictures of puppies for sale on social media and thought you should buy one?
Today's 21 News Outcue podcast looks at our Watchdog brand reporting... or Watch Puppy in this case... involving an investigation of alleged puppy fraud that started here in the Valley but left people around North America without a puppy or a refund.
Our previous reporting told you about a Goshen Township woman who was facing multiple civil lawsuits over Dachshunds and English Bulldog puppies that were allegedly paid for but never delivered.
Today, Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren, along with WFMJ Weekend anchor/reporter Corey McCrae, take a look at the story behind the story, how a post on social media led us to ask for additional information and proof of the dozens of people were claiming.
In a little digital digging, we found multiple civil lawsuits and judgments against April Waidman, also known as April Simon, and an investigation by the Goshen Township Police Department into her dealings with customers. We also found people in Florida, California, and right here in the Valley with very similar stories, most without a puppy they say they paid Waidman for.
Waidman had social media accounts where she shared updates or posted pictures of puppies for sale.
On Thursday, a Mahoning County Grand Jury indicted Waidman on 32 counts of felony theft from people who paid for puppies but never received them.
The Mahoning Co. Prosecutor told 21 News that the total amount paid by would-be dog owners was approximately $50,000, and this amount could grow if additional claims are filed.
With spring comes the increased risk for severe weather around the Mahoning and Shenango valleys.
After saturating rains on Tuesday caused some soggy yards and minor flooding, there is a chance of severe weather through 10 p.m.
We hear the terms of severe risk categories, which fall under categories like thunderstorms: marginal, slight, enhanced, moderate, to high.
But what do they mean?
What is the difference being a tornado watch and a warning? Are there increased risks that come with tornadoes that come during the night?
21 News spoke with Aaron Treadway, a severe weather expert who works for the National Weather Service. He breaks down all the terms so you can be better prepared when extreme weather hits near you.
Listen up to this important information.
"The Outcue" is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In this episode, assistant news director J. Breen Mitchell sits down with Madison Tromler and Sydney Canty to discuss how a story develops when it starts with concerns from community members.
The three discuss the difference between the easy way, which involves simply amplifying what people are saying, to the valuable, which involves digging into what the worry is and whether it's well-founded or based in fears that are unlikely to materialize.
The Outcue is a term for the final few words at the end of a news story.
When what you see on television is only the beginning of the story.....this is The Outcue.
Every year, there is a primary and a general election. And this year will actually bring three elections to the Valley - with the Ohio 6th District US Congressional special election in June.
While voting is usually a fairly quick event for voters, it takes our newsroom, reporters, videographers, web team, and people inputting election results weeks of planning and preparation.
This week, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell is joined by 21 News Director Sheila Miller and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren, who discuss their combined decades (and decades) of covering election nights.
While most people think it is simply tuning in to watch on-air or online, find out what it takes to have all the results and interviews ready to air within a brief window of time.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
The podcast name — The Outcue — is a broadcast term for the last few words of reporting before the story ends, like, "With more local news, I'm [name]."
We hope you enjoy it.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
This week, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell is joined by anchor/reporter Corey McCrae and anchor/reporter Madison Tromler to discuss how reporters cover difficult stories involving death and grieving families.
The podcast delves into how and why news organizations speak with families during tragic events - and how reporters covering these stories are impacted by the people and their lives that - more than likely - they never knew.
We discuss what goes into those decisions and what it is like for reporters to cover stories that involve tragedy or death.
Turn in every Friday on our YouTube channel or listen to the audio version on all major podcast platforms.
The podcast name — The Outcue — is a broadcast term for the last few words of reporting before the story ends, like, "With more local news, I'm [name]."
We hope you enjoy it.
“The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In episode three, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell is joined by Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren to discuss 21 News coverage of the East Palestine train derailment last February.
We look at the story behind the coverage and discuss our in-depth' 101 West' and what National Transportation Board Chair Jennifer Homendy told us about her concerns about the vent and burn.
This week, we also reported on a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing where Ohio Senator JD Vance asked National Transportation Board Chair Jennifer Homendy about the vent and burn conducted on the five vinyl chloride tank cars during the East Palestine train derailment, which she said lacked sufficient scientific basis, and disregarded temperature data.
Turn in every Friday on our YouTube channel or listen to the audio version on all major podcast platforms.
The podcast name - The Outcue - is a broadcast term that means the last few words of reporting before the package ends. We hope you enjoy it.
As the March primary draws closer, we are speaking with the Republican candidates who want to challenge incumbent Democrat Sherrod Brown for his seat in the US Senate this fall.
WFMJ's assistant news director Justin Mitchell speaks with Bernie Moreno, a self-described "political outsider," who is the only candidate in this primary officially endorsed by Trump.
As the March primary draws closer, we speak with the Republican candidates looking to challenge incumbent Democrat Sherrod Brown for his seat in the US Senate this fall.
WFMJ's assistant news director Justin Mitchell speaks with Frank LaRose, a former Army Green Beret, has been Ohio's Secretary of State since 2018.
"The Outcue" is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In episode two, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell is joined by anchor/reporter Madison Tromler and Senior Digital Content Manager Robert McFerren to discuss our deep dive investigation for the last year and a half involving the questionable spending of millions of dollars by the Youngstown City School District.
We discuss the behind-the-scenes of what we uncovered: Millions of dollars wasted of federal and district funds for projects that ended up not helping a single student or employee in the district, all while the struggling district was under a state-appointed CEO and continued after the district was returned to board control.
Turn in every Friday on our YouTube channel or listen to the audio version on all major podcast platforms.
The podcast name - The Outcue - is a broadcast term that means the last few words of reporting before the package ends. We hope you enjoy it.
"The Outcue” is a 21 News journalist perspective of our top news stories.
Each week, the 21 News staff, including reporters and managers, will discuss what goes on behind the scenes in covering stories for you - from the newsgathering process all the way to getting the final product on the air, in this new video podcast.
In episode one, Assistant News Director J. Breen Mitchell is joined by anchor/reporter Chris Cerenelli and reporter Leslie Huff to discuss how we first told you of the story of missing funds that are now affecting emergency response services in Vienna Township in Trumbull County.
Turn in every Friday, either on our YouTube channel or listen to the audio version on all major podcast platforms.
The podcast name - The Outcue - is a broadcast term that means the last few words of reporting before the package ends.
We hope you enjoy it.
Norfolk Southern, which has long promised to join the Close Call Confidential Reporting System (C3RS), signed the pilot program agreement, allowing rail workers to anonymously report safety concerns without fear of punishment or retribution by railroad managers or the railroads.
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) General Chairman Scott Bunten spoke to 21 News about why this pilot program is a good step for improved rail safety for workers and the community.
21 News spoke with Daniel Hornung, Deputy Director of the National Economic Council, about unemployment and inflation rates in Ohio and when people can start to feel an economic boost from the recent decline in both.
After more than four decades in journalism in the Valley, WFMJ 21 News Director Mona Marie Alexander has decided to retire at the end of the year.
Assistant News Director Sheila Miller and Managing Editor Justin Mitchell are joining Mona to reflect on her impact on news coverage in the Valley and the changes she made during her time at WFMJ - including adding the Feed Our Valley, which helps numerous people in our community, and growing our news coverage by adding WFMJ Today, WFMJ Weekend Today, 21 News 5 pm, expanding WFMJ Midday to an hour, and 101 West, WFMJ's investigative news program, during her tenure.
After a six-week strike by United Auto Workers against the Big Three Automakers - General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis - GM workers narrowly finalized their contract Thursday, which will add the Lordstown Ultium Cells union workers into its master agreement, meaning raises for the employees and additional benefits.
The salary bump for the UAW workers at the facility will bring an economic boost to the employees and the Valley.
Joining us to explain how the millions of dollars headed to the Valley will bring more than $38 million when you add together the raise and the $5,000 signing bonus each employee is about to receive is Shae MacMillan, Vice President of Economic Development for the Regional Chamber.
During a General Motors third quarter earnings conference call Tuesday, GM CEO Mary Barra said Ultium Cells joining "under the scope" of the automaker's master agreement is still on the table, however... UAW president said the offer is "dead in the water."
We talk with CNBC auto reporter Michael Wayland to find out what is going on.
21 News is launching a brand-new news program that will change how in-depth news looks in the Valley.
The new show is called '101 West,' named after our news station location here in downtown Youngstown ... 101 West Boardman Street... and it debuts Tuesday, October 17 on WFMJ at 7 p.m.
In this 21 News Podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell, assistant news director Sheila Miller, digital content manager Robert McFerren, and reporter/anchor Madison Tromler, all sat down to talk about the program... what it is, and what future episodes will contain.
The first episode takes a deep look at SOBE Thermal Energy Systems, the company looking to bring a new conversion technology taking scrap tires and converting them into electricity for heating and cooling. We also sat down with SOBE CEO David Ferro to hear his plans for the facility.
Listen to hear how the longer-format news program will give us a platform for in-depth watchdog reports, profiles of interesting people, and more.
This new program is 21 News' commitment to investigative reporting and in-depth stories for the Valley.
If you have a story idea for 101 West or a news tip on something you think we should look into, call the newsroom at 330-744-8821 or email at watchdog@wfmj.com.
21 News managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Dr. David Niven of the University of Cincinnati's political science department about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s announcement that he'll run for President as an Independent. Niven weighs in on whether the Kennedy name could spell trouble for President Joe Biden, or if RFK, Jr.'s policy positions endear him more to Republicans looking to move on from Donald Trump.
After the tragic hunting death of a 12-year-old boy earlier this week in Columbiana County, the 21 News podcast talks with Ohio Department of Natural Resources Law Officer Operations Manager Jeremy Carter about things hunters can do to ensure a safe hunt.
Carter speaks about the hunting season and says hunting is a safe event despite unfortunate incidents.
In today's 21 News Podcast, WFMJ Digital Manager Robert McFerren speaks with CNBC auto and airline industry reporter Phil LeBeau about the United Auto Workers after workers overwhelmingly approved a strike authorization vote by 97 percent of its membership.
In the podcast, we talk about how much the strike occurs, how much it is expected to cost the auto industry, and the potential impact on anyone looking to buy a new vehicle.
Corey McCrae speaks to Mitch Landrieu, former Mayor of New Orleans and senior advisor to President Joe Biden, about federal efforts to rebuild the nation's electricity grid. Ohio is set to receive over $14 million, nearly half of the total amount set aside for such improvements, to shore up the grid. Once in place, power outages should be fewer and shorter and the capacity will be much more equipped for emerging industries like electric vehicles.
Chris Cerenelli talks with Danielle Frizzi Babb of the Ohio Lottery about what happens in the moments and days right after someone wins the lottery. What do you do? What do you have to sign? What should you do with the ticket ? Do you have to take a check or is it direct deposit?
Everything you'll need to know if you happen to be that one in (several hundred) million to strike it rich.
Lordstown is ground-zero for a battle between Ultium Cells workers and its owners of the EV battery plant - GM/LG Energy Solution.
And Ford and Chrylsler's parent companies are closely watching as both build their own EV battery plants around the US.
Joining us in the 21 News Podcast is Detroit Bureau Chief David Welch, who reports on the auto industry for Bloomberg.
What does the fight here in the Valley mean for other battery plants and what does it mean for UAW workers making combustion cars around the US?
Boardman police said that it was a serial killer amongst our community that took the lives of 13-year-old David Evans in 1975 and12-year-old Bradley Bellino three years earlier.
21 News digital content manager Robert McFerren speaks with former Boardman Twp. Chief of Police Glenn Bowers of what it was like to investigate these cold cases with very little to go on.
US Marshals Service, along with the Mahoning County Sheriff's Office and the Youngstown Police Department, have recovered seven missing children from Youngstown during an operation with federal, state and local agencies.
Operation 'We Will Find You' goal was to recover endangered missing children, and 35 children were recovered, including the seven local children.
The Ohio portion of this nationwide operation was focused in the Cleveland, Toledo, Akron, Canton, and Youngstown areas.
In this 21 News Podcast, we talked with US Marshals Public Affairs Officer of the Nothern District of Ohio Alex Rutter, who shared information and statistics on missing children, and how federal, state and local agencies go about finding these missing children.
In this episode of the 21 News Podcast, Madison Tromler speaks with former Republican Ohio Governor Bob Taft on why he's joined a chorus of voices, including several other prominent Republicans, who want to stop Ohio lawmakers from making it harder for voters to pass ballot measures. Taft says changing the rule, which has been in place for more than a century, would be expensive and unnecessary and would water down Ohioans right to vote on matters that impact their lives.
Bharat Ramamurti talks about the latest economic data and what it means for the overall state of the economy. Is it possible to bring down inflation without leading into a recession? Ramamurti believes the answer is yes, but that it won't be an overnight solution. Also, could ongoing tensions over paying the nation's bills threaten any potential for progress?
Ohio has reported people have spent more than $1 billion on sports bets in the first two months since being legalized within the state and collected 10 percent of tax revenue for the state.
However, calls to the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline have increased as well.
In the Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana counties, calls increased 50 percent to the same period last year, prior to the introduction of sports betting in the state, up from 14 calls in January and February of 2022 to 21 calls for the same time period in 2023.
Michael Buzzelli, Associate Director of Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline, tells 21 News that the calls across the state to the helpline averaged about 500 per month before 2023 and are now well over 1,000.
Buzzelli said both individual gamblers and family members are calling to find information and resources, many of whom are calling due to significant financial and family consequences.
He also stated his organization is seeing a lower age demographic calling, 18-24 and 25-34, and reports seeing people calling sooner to report problematic gambling concerns.
Anyone who needs to speak about gambling addiction is asked to call 800-589-9966.
WFMJ's chief meteorologist Eric Wilhelm and meteorologist Andrew DiPaolo talk about what precisely some severe weather terms are.
Today they discuss floods - and the difference between watch and warning, aerial flooding vs. flash flooding, and why it is important to never drive into flood waters.
Information that is very important to know - as your life may depend on it.
Robert Fenn, Social Security Administration Public Affairs Specialist, joins host Madonna Chism Pinkard to discuss Social Security. They will discuss the cost of living (COLA) increase, the www.mymoney.gov website, types of filings for Social Security benefits, and the "Slam the Scam" program to protect the elderly.
Derek Steyer speaks with Kent State economist Dr. Omid Bagheri about the state of the economy. Inflation is improving, the federal government is moving to protect some banks and the market is a rollercoaster ride. So what does all of this mean for you and your money?
Bradley Droy is President and CEO of T.E.A. Inc. of Baton Rouge, an environmental company that investigates hazardous spills, designs and handles remediation, and assesses the toxicology issues and risk assessments for communities involved.
His firm, along with some NASA science were able to clean up the toxic derailment site in Louisiana in a few years, after others had spent more than three decades and millions attempting to do so.
Could his solution help East Palestine?
Albert Presto, Research Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, and member of the Center for Atmospheric Particle Studies speaks with 21 News about the concern of a by-product from the chemical burn in East Palestine, and speaks about the health concerns and what residents should do.
Kent State Earth Science professor Kuldeep Singh looked over the Norfolk Southern preliminary remediation plan for air, ground and water and shared what he feels was handled well, and what he feels needs more effort to control.
21 Sports Sports Director Dana Balash caught up with new Mahoning Valley Scrappers manager Dmitri Young and discuss his new job and career.
The Scrappers open the season on June 1, 2023.
In 1972, the sense of safety in the bedroom community of Boardman was shattered for the community and for law enforcement when missing 12-year-old Bradley Bellino was found dead inside of a trash dumpster behind Boardman Plaza.
In today's podcast, 21 News digital manager Robert McFerren speaks with the Boardman patrolman, and later chief Glenn Bower, who was one of the first on the scene, who shares his memories of the tragic day and how police officers can be haunted by some of the horrific crime scenes they investigate as part of their daily jobs.
21 News at 5 p.m. Anchor Lindsay McCoy interviews The Detroit News Autos Reporter Kalea Hall about the upcoming UAW talks for Ultium Cells workers in Lordstown and the national union talks this year. She also details why this will be a big year for General Motors. Autoline Auto Industry Analyst John McElroy explains the formation of the EV battery belt and where plants go be built for battery production next.
Don Templeton has been living with the fact that he was the last person to see his best friend Brad Bellino alive ... except the man who killed him in Boardman in March of 1972. 21 News reporter and Weekend anchor Sydney Canty speaks with Templeton who shares his memories of Brad, and how he feels now the case is finally solved.
"Erin's Law" is a law in several states around the country that requires age-appropriate abuse education aimed at helping kids know the red flags of potential predators. It's named after Erin Merryn, an abuse survivor from Chicago. In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, Madison Tromler speaks to Merryn about what it took to get the bill passed in Ohio and why she says this was the hardest state to get it done.
New jobs numbers show nearly 50-year lows in unemployment and wages headed upward. Managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks to Jared Bernstein of the White House Council of Economic Advisors about whether there's any way to fight inflation without hurting workers. How can the federal government cool down the economy to bring down prices without hurting workers in the process?
Two new polls show Tim Ryan and JD Vance locked in an absolute dead heat heading down the stretch to Election Day. In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell talks to Dr. Don Levy of Siena College Research Institute about the trends in this race. Levy talks about the unusual Ohio phenomenon where double-digit percentages of voters say they'll vote for DeWine for Governor and Tim Ryan for Senate, as well as some key shifts in Vance's favor. Bottom line: The race is coming down to whoever can turn out a sliver of the nine percent who still say they're undecided: Will they vote for one of the candidates or will they skip the race entirely?
Erik Boland is a former sportswriter for the Warren Tribune Chronicle and did some work for 21 Sports in the late 1990s.
For the past 14 seasons, he's been the New York Yankees beat writer for Newsday.
WFMJ 21 Sports Director Dana Balash caught up with Boland and talked about the Guardians - Yankees series and more.
Enjoy!
More cuts and layoffs could once again be a reality at Youngstown State University, as YSU administration sent a letter to faculty members listing which departments could be impacted.
21 News anchor Madison Tromler speaks with union president YSU-OEA President Mark Vopat, who feels the university's approach is going to hurt the University's ability to attract and keep faculty in this 21 News podcast.
It’s National Recovery Month in the United States and it comes at a time when we’re seeing discouraging trends in overdose numbers all over our viewing area.
In some cases, this year appears poised to surpass 2017 for the worst year ever for fatal overdoses in Mahoning and Trumbull counties and the backdrop for addiction continues to change.
Managing Editor Justin Mitchell talks with Dr. John Sabaro, head of addiction services for Mercy Health and Suzette Miller, nursing supervisor for behavioral health, about an effort to help some of the most vulnerable.
In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, Erin Simonek speaks with Betsy Mayotte of the Institute of Student Loan Advisers about who will likely be most impacted by the President's plan to forgive $10,000 in student loan debt. Is there any downside? Is the plan likely to affect inflation? Does it go far enough? Mayotte takes us through the likely effects of the plan for most borrowers.
Trumbull County was awarded $344 million in an unprecedented opioid lawsuit settlement. 21 News anchor Madison Tromler spoke with Trumbull County's Mental Health and Recovery Board Executive Director April Caraway about how the money will be used to help battle drug addiction in the county.
In today's 21 News Podcast, Managing Editor J. Breen Mitchell speaks with best-selling author and political strategist, Lis Smith, who has worked for many politicians, all the way up to Pete Buttigieg's 2020 Presidential campaign.
Listen to her take on the Senate race between Tim Ryan against J.D. Vance, and talks about Ohio's political landscape.
Her book "Any Given Tuesday" follows Smith from college political intern to adviser to some of the most high-profile politicians in the country.
"It's important that we embrace our history. So we can understand it...and leave it behind." That's how Marc Smerling, the Oscar-nominated producer behind "The Jinx," "Catfish," and "Crimetown" describes why he's taken on his latest project. "Crooked City: Youngstown, Ohio" delves deep into the city's sometimes sordid past, from Mafia carbombings to Jim Traficant to Amil Dinsio's massive bank heist where he made off with $30 million of Richard Nixon's cash. Corey McCrae discusses what fascinated Smerling about the city, what the impact has been on national politics and why there's hope for a bright future.
Facing scrutiny from the Ohio Learning Commission and the U.S. Department of Education over issues including adequate staff levels, online enrollment and the implementation of a free tuition program that has been suspended, reinstated and then suspended again, Corey McCrae has a candid conversation with the president of Eastern Gateway Community College about whether there are any concerns for the school's longterm future .
In today's 21 News podcast, managing editor of news J. Breen Mitchell talks with Michael Dorn, executive director of Safe Havens International, a non-profit campus safety organization that schools and school systems to improve crisis preparedness and campus safety.
Dorn has done more than 8,500 school safety analyses in the US, and in more than 24 countries in his 41 years in the school safety business.
Find out what countries have the most dangerous school settings, and Dorn discusses how he examines school shoot information by the per capita rate to get accurate data for his non-profit, and what tools are effective in battling school violence, and see what Dorn says about whether arming teachers is a solution to the problem.
Listen to this very interesting podcast and share it with other concerned parents.
Madison Tromler speaks with attorney Matt Mangino about the executive order signed by President Joe Biden in response to the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe vs. Wade. After that decision, Ohio immediately implemented a ban on abortions in nearly all cases after six weeks . Does the new order have any impact on Ohio law?
In the wake of a flurry of Supreme Court decisions that have expanded gun rights, taken away reproductive rights and broken down a wall between church and state, is the Supreme Court interpreting the law or using the bench to advance a political agenda? Managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Kent State professor Chris Banks. Banks is an expert in Constitutional law and the courts and he says we're witnessing nearly unprecedented times that could affect the legitimacy of the Court for a long time to come.
Leslie Huff speaks with Guy Burney, director of the Community Initiative to Reduce Violence, about protocols in place in the city of Youngstown to help balance the needs of the community with the needs of families affected by violence.
In today's 21 News podcast, Constitutional law expert Matt Mangino talks with anchor Derek Steyer about the ramifications of overturning abortion rights in the US and returning the decision to the state level to decide. What will this mean for Ohio and Pennsylvania?
In this episode of the 21 News Podcast, Leslie Huff speaks with Joseph Napier, chief organizer of The Youngstown Creative Collective, which is organizing the fifth annual Youngstown Juneteenth event at the Eugenia Atkinson Center. The event, which begins at noon on Sunday, June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
Once a Democratic stronghold, the Mahoning Valley has seen the Republican party make massive gains since 2016. In 2020, both Mahoning and Trumbull counties went Republican, in some areas by large margins.
Now, there are new leaders leading the Democratic Party in both counties and in this edition of the 21 News Podcast, both Chris Anderson and Mark Alberini talk about their plans to reshape the party in a new era .
What money mistakes did you make when you were first out of high school and how much better off would you be if you had known then what you know now?
In this episode of the 21 News Podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Viktoria Jurkovic, consumer affairs manager at the Ohio Department of Commerce, about the tools young people need to start out in the world. From how to save money to how to use credit cards as tools for your future, Jurkovic talks about how making some simple decisions now can help young people avoid mistakes that could follow them for years to come.
In this 21 News Podcast, Social Media Coordinator Danielle Cotterman sits down with former FBI Agent, best-selling author and art crime expert Robert K. Wittman.
Wittman shares details of how he came to uncover the four hundred page and long-lost diary of Alfred Rosenberg, a theorist who has been described as 'the man who made Hitler into Hitler.'
Listeners can also learn more about a lecture series featuring Wittman that is currently taking place at the Medici Museum of Art.
Michael Lawlor, a former Connecticut legislator who authored the nation's first "Red Flag" law, talks about why mass shootings are only common in America and how we can cut through politics and find solutions to the problem.
Valley native Bo Pelini and his son Patrick are starting their own podcast next week, "Beyond the Playbook with Bo Pelini."
21 Sports Director Dana Balash talked with both Pelini's about what this venture is all about, how it pertains to Coach Pelini's coaching career in the NFL and college, and how this father and son duo came up with the idea, and what they hope to accomplish.
We also ask Bo if his coaching career is over, plus much more.
Terri DiGennaro was recently honored with the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities Advocate of the Year Award . The award honors her work to bring more access to art therapy, a unique type of therapy that uses art as a way to communicate when words aren't as easy to come by . DiGennaro talks about how she saw the benefits of art in her own son, Ryan Giambattista , who she describes as a "street artist." When Ryan died, Terri looked to find ways to honor him and in the process, found a way to make his memory bring help to others .
Cleveland Clinic psychologist Dr. Kia Rai-Prewitt talks about the importance of being patient with the healing process following a traumatic event. Rai-Prewitt says what parents and children alike need most is to allow themselves to go through the stages of grief, however they feel them personally, and allow themselves the time it takes to heal.
21 News Managing Editor Justin Mitchell speaks one on one with former Congressman Jim Renacci, who is the top challenger to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine in the May 3rd primary.
Renacci is pressed on why he's not concerned with splitting the Republican vote, why he thinks former President Donald Trump has declined to endorse him and what exactly does he mean when he says he'd ban certain topics from Ohio's classrooms.
Former Howland and Michigan football product De'Veon Smith was released from the USFL's Pittsburgh Maulers after nearly a week for what the team is saying was for being 'disrespectful.' Smith claims it was over a menu item of chicken salad following practice a few weeks ago. A video surfaced on Twitter Monday on Smith being told of his released. The video was part of a documentary about the USFL returning.
21 Sports caught up with Smith earlier today to get his side of the story.
Listen up.
Sydney Canty speaks with Kathy Cook, the retiring president of St. Joe's Hospital. Cook talks about her 38 years in the healthcare field, from her time as a nurse to experiences running a hospital.
A psychologist for the Cleveland Clinic, Kasey Goodpaster, Ph.D., responds to a CDC report showing that emergency room visits for eating disorders doubled among girls between the ages of 12 and 17 years old during the pandemic.
In this 21 News Podcast, Goodpaster explains what may have caused the increase. She also breaks down the do's-and-don'ts of addressing a child.
In this WFMJ 21 Sports podcast, sports director Dana Balash speaks with Greg Brown, the radio/TV broadcaster for the Pittsburgh Pirates since 1994. In 1988, Brown worked as a weekend sports anchor for WFMJ TV (and he's one of three former WFMJ Sports anchors now working for major league teams as broadcasters).
Listen up to the reunion and hear more about the Pittsburgh Pirates.
21 News Anchor Madison Tromler sits down with Brian Cuban, a recovery advocate, author and Dallas-based attorney. He's the brother of Mark Cuban, an entrepreneur and television personality. Cuban made a stop in Youngstown to speak at YSU on his recovery. In this podcast, he discusses his journey overcoming his alcohol/drug addiction & an eating disorder, offers advice for those dealing with addiction, and shares his message for success.
We've seen the recent and horrifying reports out of Ukraine as refugees recall the chaos and violence they're witnessing.
Millions continue to flee Ukraine to neighboring countries like Poland.
Anchor Madison Tromler spoke with a women from the Mahoning Valley who is in Poland to help, and shares with 21 News the traumatic experiences they're hearing first hand.
21 News Political Panelists managing editor Justin Mitchell, 570 WKBN host Ron Verb and publisher of the Buckeye Review Dr. Mike McNair go over the winners and losers in the Senate Republican candidates debate put on by the Ohio Debate Commission.
21 News Managing Editor Justin Mitchell, 570 WKBN radio host Ron Verb and publisher of the Buckeye Review Dr. Mike McNair go over the Senate Democratic candidates debate between Tim Ryan, Morgan Harper and Traci TJ Johnson put on by the Ohio Debate Commission.
Does it seem like the wild swings in temperature are playing havoc on your allergies? It's not your imagination. Dr. Tonia Farmer talks with Sydney Canty about how the weather affects allergies, why it may be getting worse right now and some of the newest, most innovative ways to stay ahead of the problem.
In times of stress from everything from war on television to concerns over household budgets squeezed by high gas and food prices, we may not realize how much the youngest members of our families are picking up. In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, Dr. David Chiarella talks about ways to notice that your little one may be feeling overwhelmed or helpless and how to help cope with those fears as a family.
Jessie Balmert, state government reporter for the Columbus Dispatch, talks about the Governor's race, the Senate race and whether there's any way the May 3 primary can go forward as scheduled without delay.
Ron Torbert, a 1981 graduate of South High School from Youngstown, shares his experience as a referee for Super Bowl LVI on Feb. 13, 2022, and growing up in the Valley.
Listen up!
YSU professor and author Chris Barzak discusses the rising movements in several states to ban certain books from the classroom, including one of his own. Barzak says that while the thought process behind these bans is harmful, he remains optimistic that they will actually backfire and encourage more reading and diversity of thought. Barzak's book, "Wonders of the Invisible World," was included on a list of 850 books targeted for banning by a Texas State representative.
Malaynia Spiva speaks with Erin Bishop from the Youngstown City Health District and Michelle Edison with the Mahoning County District Board of Health about the longstanding problem of infant mortality in the county. After years and years of struggling to improve the problem, Mahoning county's infant mortality rate remains signficantly higher than many other places. What progress has been made and how much more work needs to be done to improve the chance at life for so many Valley children?
Former longtime Vindicator columnist Bertram de Souza reflects on the trailblazing life and legacy of former Vindicator publisher Betty Brown Jagnow. de Souza recalls Mrs. Jagnow's seven decades at the newspaper, her devotion to serving the community and her sharp wit and passion for the paper and its people.
21 Sports talks with Mike Mulhall, Vice President of Business Development for the Cleveland Sports Commission about the NBA All Star Weekend coming to Cleveland later this month.
Mullhall talks what's available for fans and much more. Listen up!
Dan O'Brien, managing editor of The Business Journal, talks with Madison Tromler about the latest developments in the electric vehicle industry in Lordstown and whether or not the promise of Voltage Valley is finally coming true.
In a lengthy and candid conversation, Corey McCrae speaks with Kevin Richardson of the Central Park Five, who were wrongfully accused and convicted of a brutal attack on a jogger in New York City in the late 1980's.
Richardson talks about the reforms needed in order to shatter the false perceptions some in authority have held against Black and Latino men.
Richardson recounts how that night changed his life forever and opened his eyes to the inequities that exist in some aspects of the criminal justice system, which he now works to reform.
Managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with White House Deputy Communications director Kate Berner about Biden's first year in office. Berner talks about Biden's accomplishments, such as a low unemployment rate and vaccine rollout, as well as the problems plaguing the country, such as high inflation and an inability to pass big-ticket items such as Voting Rights and the Build Back Better plan. With approval ratings now below 50 percent, can the President overcome the hurdles his agenda faces?
In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, Madison Tromler has a conversation with Wynton Rayford of the East Liverpool and Wellsville NAACP. Rayford reflects on the importance of Martin Luther King Day in this moment in history and the legacy Martin Luther King Junior left behind.
21 Sports Sports Director Dana Balash talks with the Executive Director of the Ohio High School Athletic Association Doug Ute about adding girls wrestling and boys volleyball for the 2022-23 school year.
Also discussed was the first year of 16 teams from each region in the football playoffs and if there's any thought of shortening the regular season due to the expanded playoffs.
Listen up!
21 News Anchor Derek Steyer speaks with the Governor one on one as we enter what's shaping up to be a busy year in Ohio
In the first episode of the third season, Managing Editor Justin Mitchell speaks with David Pepper, author of "Laboratories of Autocracy: A Wake up call from Behind the Lines." One year since the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, Pepper argues that the real threat to American democracy is happening in a much quieter way at the state level with little attention from the people. Far from being a partisan issue, Pepper says the threat has grave consequences for Republicans and Democrats. Not to despair, though, Pepper says there are a number of simple things Americans can do to make sure the people maintain their voice.
Dr. James Kravec, chief medical officer at Mercy Health, talks about the strain the current wave of Covid infections is having on hospitals. Kravec points out that the vast majority of those in the hospitals remain unvaccinated. So is it still safe to gather for the holidays? Kravec says yes, as long as you take some basic precautions.
Congressman Mike Kelly speaks with Madison Tromler as he begins his reelection campaign. Kelly talks about why he blames Republicans as well as Democrats for the size of the nation's deficit, where he sees the Covid pandemic heading next and the current ethics probes he's facing. Kelly also says , after leading one of the legal efforts to overturn the 2020 election in Pennsylvania, that he doesn't believe his rhetoric contributed to a loss of confidence in elections that could undermine future races.
21 Sports Director Dana Balash talks with Horizon League Commissioner Julie Roe Lach on the status of Youngstown State University's Athletics, the Horizon League and why the men's basketball team opens its conference schedule on the road. Lach also discusses why there are no more Men's/Women's basketball doubleheaders and more on the importance of YSU and the Horizon League.
Connor Steffen speaks exclusively with national Republican pollster and strategist Kellyanne Conway. Conway is now working on the Senate campaign for Bernie Moreno, who is seeking the GOP nomination for the seat being vacated by Rob Portman. Conway walks about moving the party forward beyond Donald Trump by focusing on issues over insults and whether the realignment of 2016 is likely to last into the future.
Youngstown State University alum Cathy Lucas talks about her work with the LGBTQ Alumni Chapter to offer a helping hand to students in need. Lucas talks about how the fund can help LGBTQ students while offering an inclusive environment free from discrimination.
Easy Street Productions Co-founder Todd Hancock joined 21 News to go over what this year's show has to offer and what makes it unique from years past.
Madison Tromler speaks with economist Omid Bagheri from Kent State University about the President's move to open up the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Will this actually lower gas prices? By how much? And for how long?
In this 21 News podcast, Dr. Deirdre Adduci says in her 35 years of being a therapist topics of today are the most polarizing she has experienced in counseling.
In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Jared Bernstein, one of President Joe Biden's top economic advisers, about the Build Back Better plan just passed by the U.S. House. Bernstein talks about the bill chances of making it through a divided Senate and what his answer is to people in places like the Mahoning Valley with concerns over a changing economy.
Andrew DiPaolo speaks one on one with Jim Boscov, President of Boscov's, about how the first few months have gone at the Eastwood Mall. Amid supply chain woes plaguing shoppers this holiday season, Boscov explains their unique business model and how he believes it will help them weather the storm.
In this 21 News Podcast, Malaynia Spiva sits down with Director of Development at Second Harvest Food Bank Renee Fuller.
In this 21 News podcast, Social Media Coordinator Danielle Cotterman sits down with OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children's Center for Science & Technology's new Executive Director, Marvin Logan Jr. Hear about the direction the popular children's science center is moving and why the Warren native wanted to move back home to the Valley.
Congressman Tim Ryan called it a "blockbuster." Now that the deal between Foxconn and Lordstown Motors has officially been inked, is this really as good a deal for the Valley as he and others hope? Madison Tromler speaks with CNBC auto analyst Phil Lebeau about whether there is reason for optimism in Voltage Valley.
In this episode of the 21 News Podcast, Vic Russell of Apprisen Financial Advocates talks with Matt Stone about how to navigate the challenges of the holiday season amid higher prices and uncertain availability of many items.
In this addition of the 21 News Podcast, Madison Tromler spoke with Nuria Fernandez, Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration at the Department of Transportation. Fernandez weighs in on the recently passed $1.2-trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, how these funds can be used and when the Valley could see this money.
As 21 WFMJ and the Second Harvest Foodbank kick off the fifteenth year of the Feed Our Valley campaign, executive director Mike Iberis speaks with Derek Steyer about the continuing need. Iberis talks about how, even as the heights of the pandemic have receded, he's seeing a new group of people seeking help for the very first time.
Ohio is poised to receive millions in settlement money from lawsuits filed in the wake of the opioid epidemic that has ravaged communities for years. In this episode, Matt Stone speaks with Dennis Cauchon of Harm Reduction Ohio who says for the money to have the intended impact, those most affected need to have a seat at the table in deciding how to spend it.
In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, Dr. Chris Liebig talks about his role as the new medical director at Akron Children's Hospital Mahoning Valley. Liebig talks about the challenges facing childrens' health, both everywhere and those that are more unique to areas like the Mahoning Valley. Liebig talks about the long-term impacts of the pandemic on children, as well as the crises that existed before Covid, including the opioid crisis.
For appointments or more information about Akron Children's Mahoning Valley, call:
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In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, Zach Montellaro of Politico talks about concerns over election integrity and how they impact races from the national level on down to local elections. Speaking from a rally in Virginia, where a hotly contested gubernatorial race is seen as an early indicator for both parties, Montellaro explains why elections are fundamentally sound and how misinformation can hurt turnout overall.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, Andrew DiPaolo speaks with Dr. William Sawaya of Bowling Green University about how long we can expect supply chain disruptions to affect our daily lives.
In this 21 News Podcast, Anchor Derek Steyer sits down with famed coach Ken Carter, who is an education activist known for placing academics on par with athletics and prioritizing good values to his players.
In today's 21 News podcast, Social Media Coordinator Danielle Cotterman speaks with Deputy Director at Healthy Eating Research Megan Lott about the challenges of getting children to make healthy choices and the best way to approach the issue.
There's a light over at the Frankenstein place this weekend in Youngstown. Or at least at the B&O, because that's where the Millennial Theatre Company will be presenting their take on the iconic, campy, rock and roll classic, "The Rocky Horror Show." We're all shivering with antici.......................................................pation.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, Lindsay McCoy speaks with Jay Wilhelm from Ohio University about the future of 5G and what it will mean for you. What will it take to get up and running and how can places like Youngstown play a role in this "wave of the future" technology?
Matt Stone speaks with WRTA executive director Dean Harris about the bus service's 50 year anniversary in the Valley. Harris talks about how public transportation plays a key role in the fabric of a community, as well as what the future holds for the service.
The three candidates appearing on the ballot for Youngstown mayor, Democratic incumbent Jamael Tito Brown, Republican Tracey Winbush and Independent Richard Vincent Hill, take part in a no-holds-barred, spirited debate over the future leadership of the city of Youngstown. The forum is moderated by 21 News anchor Derek Steyer, with panelists former Vindicator editorial columnist Bertram de Souza and former Vindicator regional editor Ernie Brown.
In the latest edition of our series of interviews with the candidates running for the Senate seat currently held by Rob Portman, 21 News managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Ohio state Senator Matt Dolan. Dolan talks about what he believes sets him apart from the other Republicans in the race, why the Great Lakes region is poised to be crucial to the economy of the future and why he's not worried about being singled out for criticism from former President Donald Trump.
Managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks to Dr. Ron Dwinnells about his new book on leadership. Dwinnells talks about how the most valuable lessons in life, from the professional realm to your personal life, come from the mistakes we make.
Sydney Canty speaks with Attorney Justin Markota about the rise in fake vaccination cards and how using one can get you in a lot more trouble than you may realize.
Madison Tromler speaks with labor attorney Ira Mirkin about the vaccine mandate announced by President Joe Biden. Mirkin explains what authority the federal government has to impose such a rule and what challenges it would need to withstand to stick.
In the latest edition of the 21 News Podcast, we continue our series of conversations with the candidates who hope to win the Senate seat currently held by Rob Portman. Congressman Tim Ryan talks about where he thinks the national Democratic party has gone wrong in its message. Ryan says he's got the strategy to change course, fend off a primary challenge from a progressive outsider and win as a Democrat in Trump country.
Nurse Practitioner, Camilla Giallourakis, with Akron Children's School Health Program discusses an increase in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, the upcoming flu season, and the debate on masks in school.
The Resch Center for Student Progress is going to look a little different this year. It's not the inside or outside that will be different, but the name will be different. In this 21 News Podcast, we speak with the Director of the program and explain why the new name change better reflects their mission and vision.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with former Michigan Governor and U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm about the Ultium battery plant, Lordstown Motors and how the federal government can help make the Mahoning Valley a hub for attracting more companies looking to invest in the future.
Danielle Cotterman speaks at length with the Rev. Kenneth Simon about his fight to end violence in Youngstown. Simon talks about how the faith community can use connections with families to take the struggle outside of the church and into the streets.
In this 21 News podcast, social media manager Danielle Cotterman speaks with 'Hillbilly Elegy' author, politician, and venture capitalist JD Vance, who is seeking the Ohio Senate seat being vacated by Rob Portman.
Vance talks about what in his opinion sets him apart in a crowded Republican field for the seat — including concerns on the 2020 election, the Afghanistan troop withdrawal, and fixing the immigration issue, employment and the censorship of information by Silicon Valley tech companies.
Listen up!
In the latest edition of the 21 News podcast, Chris Cerenelli speaks with Columbus attorney and progressive Democrat Morgan Harper, who's challenging Tim Ryan for the Democratic nomination in the Ohio Senate race.
Harper talks about why she believes she's a better representation of the Democratic party and believes the party needs to throw out the old playbook if it wants to become competitive in Ohio again.
Listen up!
In this 21 News podcast, anchor Madison Tromler speaks with Michele Wilmoth, Akron Children's Hospital School Health Services Director, who gives advice for parents to prepare students of all age ranges on wearing their masks in the classroom this school year as concern rises over the Delta variant and impact the virus can have on kids.
Listen up!
In this 21 News podcast, anchor Madison Tromler talks with Kent State University Economist and environmental researcher Dr. Omid Bagheri, who weighs in on a new report from the United Nations regarding global warming.
Dr. Bagheri explains what the issues are, what people can do, and the economic factors.
Listen to this important podcast.
In today's 21 News podcast, anchor Madison Tromler speaks with Kent State University Associate Professor of Sociology and Co-Director of Healthy Communities Research Institute Dr. Clare Stacey about the misinformation that spreads online and within social settings, and why people believe false information from a sociological perspective.
Listen up to this informative podcast.
In this 21 News podcast, sports director Dana Balash talks with former WBC and WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik about "Youngstown's Night of Champions," which will take place at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre on Friday, August 13.
Pavlik talks about five world champs coming together in this special event to discuss their careers.
Other local legends joining the 'Night of Champions' Friday includes Harry Arroyo, Jeff Lampkin, Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and Greg Richardson.
Admission is free and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.
In this 21 News podcast, sports director Dana Balash talks with Ray 'Boom Boom' Mancini who competed professionally from 1979 to 1992 held the WBA lightweight title from 1982 to 1984.
Mancini talks about "Youngstown's Night of Champions," which will take place at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre on Friday, August 13.
Youngstown's five world boxing champs are coming together in this special event to discuss their careers.
Other local legends joining the 'Night of Champions' Friday includes Harry Arroyo, Jeff Lampkin, Kelly Pavlik and Greg Richardson.
Admission is free and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.
In the latest in our series of interviews with the candidates seeking to win the Senate seat currently held by Rob Portman, 21 News managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Cleveland car dealer Bernie Moreno.
Moreno talks about his top priorities in running for the seat, including how he plans to bring jobs back to the United States and his belief that General Motors owes the Mahoning Valley more than just the Ultium Cells battery plant that's under construction in Lordstown.
Listen up!
In today's 21 News podcast, Chris Cerenelli speaks with Dr. Timothy Barreiro, a pulmonologist, about the how the western U.S. wildfire smoke is affecting people in the Valley.
According to Dr. Barreiro, with the Valley's high number of pulmonary cases, the haze from fires thousands of miles away is a serious concern for those who have this disease, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and industrial-related incidents.
Listen to learn how to know the difference between smog, fog, haze and what the air quality ratings mean.
Listen up!
In today's 21 News podcast, Chris Cerenelli and meteorologist Andre DiPaolo discuss how wildfires in the western U.S. are leading to stronger storms across the Valley and some incredibly colorful sunsets.
With the air being affected by the smoke particles, Cris and Andrew also talk about the risks of longer exposure to poor air quality and what to expect going forward.
Listen up!
In this 21 News podcast with Ohio State Senator Matt Dolan, Sydney Cantey discusses Matt Dolan's run for state senator, who he is, what he's looking for on his statewide listening tour that will get him into the race for U.S. Senate and what makes him stand out from the other Republican candidates.
Listen up!
Employment attorney, John Gerak of Ogletree Deakins in Cleveland talks about returning to work and the lifting of certain COVID 19 restrictions while on the job.
Among the topics: What laws apply, your rights as an employee, workplace accommodations and policies, COVID resurgence procedures.
In this 21 news podcast, reporter Sydney Cantey discusses how a handshake in 1946 is now being commemorated in Youngstown. Sydney speaks with Ernie Brown, co-chair of the Robinson-Shuba Commemorative Statue committee.
The 1946 handshake between Jackie Robinson, the first African-American Major League Baseball player, and George “Shotgun” Shuba, his white teammate from Youngstown was created to inspire better relations among people of different racial backgrounds.
The statue which will have an unveiling and dedication of the Robinson-Shuba Commemorative Statue has been scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, July 17 in Wean Park.
Listen up to hear how the statue came to be.
Next in our series of in-depth conversations with the candidates vying for the Ohio Senate seat that will be vacated by Rob Portman next year, 21 News managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Cleveland-area investment banker Mike Gibbons.
The Republican candidate talks about what he believes the role of government should be and why he believes that he's well positioned to win, even though he's currently polling far behind the frontrunners.
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21 News Anchor Madison Tromler sits down with Mahoning County Mental Health & Recovery Board Executive Director to discuss how families can seek help for adults in their family suffering with mental health issues.
Listen up!
In this 21 News podcast, reporter Sydney Canty talks about the increase in violence in our city with Irvin Waller, Emeritus Professor of Criminology at the University of Ottawa.
Are efforts like hosting vigils and rallies effective in deterring crime? Waller also discusses programs to decrease homicides and other ways we can target the root of the problem to fix it.
Listen up!
In today's 21 News podcast, reporter Malaynia Spiva speaks with Joseph Napier, Founder of the Youngstown Creative Collective and Chairman of Youngstown's Juneteenth Celebration. During this series, we're learning more about Youngstown's week-long Juneteenth Celebration through June 20.
Listen up to hear about all the scheduled events or go to youngstownjuneteenth.com
It's shaping up to be one of the most consequential political contests in the nation. Who will take over the Senate seat currently held by Republican Rob Portman? One of the candidates, former Ohio GOP chair Jane Timken, believes she's got exactly the right message to appeal to traditional Republicans and crossover Trump Republicans, a strategy she's confident will carry her to victory.
21 News Managing Editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Timken about what issues she sees as key to the voters and how she plans to surge past her Republican opponents to become the nominee.
He's worn many hats over the years, from state senator to gubernatorial candidate to judge. But before all of that, he wore a pair of Golden Gloves. And it's that passion for the sweet science and it's rich history in the Mahoning Valley that he's bringing to a very special evening at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre this summer.
In this 21 News podcast, Judge Joe Schiavoni talks with managing editor Justin Mitchell about bringing together the Valley's five world champion boxers for one free night where fans can relive classic moments with the legends who made them.
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In this 21 News podcast, Dr. Ben Neuman speaks with reporter Matt Stone about what is (and isn't) important about finding the origins of Covid 19 and why he says that controlling the virus will be the greatest achievement in all of human history.
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In today's 21 News podcast, Mahoning Co. Engineer Patrick Ginnetti discusses all the upcoming big road and bridge projects in the county.
Know where the construction zones are and avoid delays.
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In this 21 News podcast, County Engineer Randy Smith talks about the large road and bridge projects that will cause delays in your commute.
Listen up to know where all the road projects are, how long they will be going on, and why they are important to the region.
In today's 21 News podcast, County Engineer Bert Dawson discusses the big road projects and issues driver's will face.
Listen up to know where and when the projects are.
WFMJ Today anchor Steve Vesey talks with Ray "Boom Boom" Mancini about his one-man show at Robins Theatre in Warren Saturday, May 22.
Mancini talks about what to expect from this show, from his Youngstown-to-Hollywood career, his boxing and lots of photos.
Listen up and go to http://www.robinstheatre.com/ for additional information
In this 21 News Podcast, Anchor and Reporter Erin Simonek sits down with Justin Jennings, CEO of the Youngstown City School District as they unveil their reconfiguration plans for the district's buildings and students.
The district says reconfiguring grades and buildings will better meet the needs of their students and families.
Will this require more busing? What about the teachers? Will more be needed?
Listen up to hear about all the new changes coming to Youngstown City Schools.
In today's 21 News podcast, managing editor J. Breen Mitchell speaks with Cleveland attorney and former Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann about what people don't understand about HIPPA laws.
Can employers and business owners ask if have a medical condition or are vaccinated against COVID?
Actually, it doesn't mean you have to answer, but if you don't, you may need to be prepared for potential consequences.
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In today's 21 News podcast, managing editor of news J. Breen Mitchell speaks with former and possibly future Presidential candidate and Transportation Secretary in the Biden administration, Pete Buttigieg.
Buttigieg talks about the American Jobs Plan and what would qualify as infrastructure in places like the Mahoning Valley. He says unlike the American Rescue Plan, which brought tens of millions to the area aimed at bringing communities "back from the brink" of the pandemic, this package would have much broader uses. If passed, Buttigieg says it would mean improvements to everything from the roads we drive on and the water we drink to technological advancements to help compete around the world.
But can the plan pass with a narrow majority or will it need to be scaled back to a leaner, more traditional infrastructure plan in order to bring Republicans on board?'
Listen up to hear how the U.S. Secretary of Transportation feels this bill will help the Valley.
In today's 21 News podcast, anchor Jennifer Brindisi speaks with Dr. Ben Neuman, Niles native and world-renowned virologist from Texas A&M about herd immunity.
That often-talked about goal of getting enough people vaccinated that Covid-19 goes away is now looking like something we may never achieve. But what does that mean and if we don't achieve it, can we still get back to regular life without fear?
Listen up!
In today's 21 News podcast, reporter Matt Stone talks about the COVID vaccine with Mercy Health's chief clinical officer for the Valley, Dr. James Kravec — about misinformation surrounding the vaccines and discuss some people's reluctancy to get vaccinated.
Matt also asks what age should you get children vaccinated and how long until herd immunity will happen?
If you had COVID, do you still need to get the vaccine?
Lots of great information is shared intros podcast.
Listen up!
In today's 21 News podcast, we speak with Dr. Jill Haltigan, Family Medicine Physician at Salem Primary Care about seasonal allergies.
More than 60 million people suffer from these air born irritants, but there are some simple things you can do to help relieve the congestion (including watching your weather forecast on 21 News).
Listen up for some relief!
In today's 21 News Podcast, midday anchor Jennifer Brindisi talks with
Donna DeBlasio, a professor of history, and discuss Walter Mondale, the former Vice President to Jimmy Carter, and Presidential candidate, who died April 19.
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In this WFMJ Community Connection Podcast, host Madonna Chism Pinkard speaks with Dale Peskin, a native Youngstowner and former Vindicator reporter who wrote a fiction mystery/thriller novel about Youngstown, entitled, "The Timekeepers Daughter."
The book picks up in the midst of the closing of the steel mills and the death of the timekeeper of one of the mills.
Peskin shares the story behind the book, which is available for order at Barnes and Noble, Amazon and more.
Listen up!
In this 21 News podcast, WFMJ sports director Dana Balash talks with former MLB outfielder and World Series champion Coco Crisp, who will manage the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in the inaugural MLB Draft League announced Monday.
Hear what Crisp's plans and vision is for the Scrapper's going forward.
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In this 21 News podcast, sports director Dana Balash talks with the President of the Cleveland Sports Commission, David Gilbert, about the upcoming NFL Draft in Cleveland.
Gilbert discusses how to register to attend the event next month, and what there will be for fans to see and do safely — with the NFL working with the CDC on pandemic guidelines for the event.
For all updated information on this event, go to NFL.com/draft.
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In today's 21 News podcast, anchor Jennifer Brindisi discusses the effects the pandemic has had on education over the past year with Karyn Lewis, a senior research scientist with the Center for School and Student Progress of NWEA.
Scientific data shows that the 'worst case' scenario actually didn't come true, and students are still making progress in reading. However, the picture is not so rosy in math.
Lewis also acknowledges that students in more disadvantaged, poorer areas and minorities struggled more with education during the pandemic for various reasons, including technological deficiencies.
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In this 21 News podcast, anchor Erin Simonek speaks with Kent State economics associate professor, Dr. Lockwood Reynolds about the nation's economy that's been substantially hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Reynolds how businesses and society can recover and what more needs to be done to save our economy going forward.
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In today's special edition of the 21 News Podcast – we continue to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic, one year later.
21 News Anchor Madison Tromler down with Dr. Cynda Rushton, a bunting professor of Clinical Ethics and Nursing of Johns Hopkins University.
Rushton walks through the challenges nurses have faced on the front lines of the pandemic, how this will impact them, and how this could affect all people in the years to come if change is not made.
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In this 21 News Podcast, WFMJ anchor Derek Steyer speaks with coronavirus expert and Niles native, Dr. Ben Neuman, about the history of the COVID-19 virus on the one-year anniversary and what needs to happen to prevent a repeat of 2020.
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It's the crown jewel of summertime in the Mahoning Valley.
Thousands of people come from far and wide every year to the Canfield Fair.
Last year was more than a little different, though, due to the coronavirus pandemic making it impossible for large groups to gather.
But now, the light may be at the end of the tunnel. Vaccines are kicking into high gear, cases and hospitalizations are headed in the right direction and there's talk of some restrictions being lifted in the coming weeks and months as we return to normal.
So what can we hope for at this year's fair?
In this 21 News Podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with fair spokesperson George Roman about what he thinks will be back to normal at the fair, and what may need to still wait another year to return.
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In this 21 News podcast, Chris Cerenelli talks with professional golfer Tre' Craig, an up-and-coming mini-tour player who discusses Tiger Woods's contributions to the game and the impact he's had for minorities in professional golfing organizations.
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In this 21 News podcast, Chris Cerenelli talks with orthopedic trauma surgeon Dr. Tyson Schrickel from Mercy Health about pro golfer Tiger Woods' recent injuries from a serious car crash and the road to recovery he has ahead.
In our continuing series of Black History Month podcasts, 21 News reporter Sydney Canty speaks with Gloris Griffin, a licensed professional counselor, discussing the decline of mental health in African Americans since the pandemic, stigmas in the black community that prevent people from seeking help, and ways individuals can cope with those issues through therapy.
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From history to the future: Less than three years since General Motors shuttered it's Lordstown plant, the Valley has gone from left in the dust to ground zero for the future of the auto industry. In this episode of the 21 News podcast, Derek Steyer speaks with John McElroy of Autoline about the new Ultium battery plant in Lordstown.
In this 21 News podcast, reporter Corey McCrea speaks with Reverend Dr. Jamie Washington about the importance of black history and helping educators understand what is missing from the curriculum they teach.
Dr. Washington is the President & Founder of the Washington Consulting Group, which specializes in helping organizations. For more than 36 years, Dr. Washington has served as an educator, administrator, and consultant in higher education.
In the continuing coverage for Black History Month with WFMJ News, Madonna Pinkard talks with Dr. Kwame Williams in this podcast about foot disease and deformities and offers healthcare solutions in the African American community.
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In today's 21 News podcast, reporter Malaynia Spiva speaks with Dr. Patrick Spearman, YSU's Director of Africana Studies about The History and Impact of Black Culture. African Americans are a considerable source of growth for many industries and brands, and with a spending power of over $1.2 trillion dollars in the United States, advertisers use black culture and influence to win over the masses. This series will dive into how black culture has affected music, fashion, buzz words, and most recently our election as we honor black history month.
In today's Community Connection podcast, which is the first of four in honor of Black History Month, host Madonna Pinkard speaks with Social Security Administration public relations specialist, Robert Fenn about the 2021 Social Security Administration updates that will affect all families.
In today's 21 News podcast, anchor Derek Steyer speaks with White House Deputy Press Secretary TJ Ducklo on plans to move forward, potentially along party lines, with a new stimulus package.
What can the average person expect to see and when; and could going this route lead to unintended consequences that could hurt in the long run?
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In today's 21 News podcast, anchor Derek Steyer questions Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, the chief medical officer for the Ohio Department of Health, just how far are we from returning to our normal lives? Will herd immunnity speed up the return?
Dr. Vanderhoff also shares some vital information about the vaccine and its effectiveness against the UK variant and South African variant.
Dr. Vanderhoff also discusses why a covid survivor should get the vaccine.
Listen up!
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, Jennifer Brindisi speaks with our coronavirus expert and Niles native, Dr. Ben Neuman, about the latest developments.
Neuman talks about his confidence that the vaccines will hold up against new variants, the hope that the Johnson and Johnson vaccine may make a big difference in picking up speed in the rollout, and whether he thinks we are beginning the long road back to normal.
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It's almost hard to believe all that has transpired in the United States since last Wednesday, when domestic terrorists supporting the sitting President of the United States, Donald Trump, stormed into the United States Capitol in an attempt to overthrow the certification of the 2020 election in an effort to keep Trump in power.
Is there any historic parallel we can look to figure out where we may be headed next? Can the nation come back together or are things too far gone?
Kevin Adams, Chair of the history department at Kent State University and an expert on insurrections, talks about what kind of response is needed to these events and why he still believes there's reason to be hopeful for better days in America's future.
Listen up!
Back in April, we spoke with YSU president Jim Tressel about the impact the pandemic was likely to have on the university over the coming months.
At that time, hopes were that by the fall, there may be some sense of a return to normal. As we begin a new year with those hopes long behind us, Andrew DiPaolo spoke with Tressel again about how the school has weathered the storm. Tressel talks about how they've managed to adapt, how he hopes spring sports may help offset some of the losses and how YSU is working to position itself post-pandemic as the key to finding the jobs of the Mahoning Valley's future.
Lindsay McCoy spoke with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today about the state's plans for the year ahead. The governor says he remains optimistic for this year, but said we'll need lots more vaccine doses in order to get the most vulnerable protected from Covid 19 before getting to the rest of the population.
DeWine talks about his discussions with the incoming Biden administration and what it will take to speed up vaccinations in Ohio, as well as why he still believes 2021 will be the "year of recovery."
With the arrival of a Covid 19 vaccine comes hopes for a return to normal over the course of the new year. People returning to offices, social functions taking place in person and kids returning to the classroom on a regular basis.
But that comes after what may be for some more than a year of remote learning and the challenges associated with it.
With us today to talk about the longterm impact on kids and how to make sure they aren't left struggling when learning goes back to a traditional setting is Sara Rich, a former principal and one of the founders of Just Right Reader.
It's a common problem. How to juggle remote learning, especially with very young children and working families?
One new program aims to make those issues a little easier.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, Managing Editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Nikki Murray of the Youngstown YMCA about the Scholastic Support Program. It's a program that gives kids whose schools are all remote a place to go and offers other educational activities. We discuss who it's available to, what its cost, and how you can sign up.
It's been roughly a quarter-century since the way Ohio funds its public schools was deemed unconstitutional, but yet nothing has changed in all that time.
But that may all be about to change as a new plan gains traction across both sides of the aisle and in both houses of the Ohio legislature.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Representative John Patterson, one of the architects of the "Fair Funding Plan."
Patterson says the new plan, while complex, would provide more money for poor districts, a more even distribution of state money, and would provide for the needs of students and teachers regardless of where they are located.
The plan comes at a cost, though. Patterson acknowledges it will take an additional $1.9 billion from the state, money he knows isn't there yet.
Could this critical moment actually provide the exact push needed to put a new formula into place? And how would it affect your taxes?
Listen up!
When may we actually see a Covid-19 vaccine? And how long before that means a return to normal? In this 21 News Podcast, Dr. Benjamin Neuman, Niles native and world-renowned virologist at Texas A&M talks with Glenn Stevens and he says the latest news from Pfizer is good news, but it's still going to be a while before we can let our guard down.
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In this edition of the 21 News podcast, Matt Stone speaks with Joe Biden's deputy press secretary Bill Russo, and Donald Trump's senior adviser for strategy Steve Cortes about each campaign's closing argument to voters.
- Who is still undecided?
- What's the case that would sway them one way or another?
- What state will you be watching most closely to determine which way this election is likely to go?
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In this 21 News Podcast, reporter Erin Simonek spoke with Donald Trump Jr. at his 'Make America Great Again!' event at the Maronite Center in Youngstown.With the election just days away, listen to see what Trump Jr. message was for voters.Listen up!
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, Managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks to Delaware Senator Chris Coons, who has been called the "Biden whisperer" by Politico, conservative columnist George Will has written that he should be Secretary of State and he sits on the Senate Judiciary subcommittee.
See what Coons thought about the final presidential debate, the strategy for the final week of the campaign and the real hurdles Joe Biden would face if elected to make good on some of his loftier promises regarding healthcare.
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In this 21 News Podcast, reporter Madison Tromler interviews Mahoning Valley Congressman Tim Ryan and President Trump campaign spokesperson Hogan Gidley on what President Trump and Democratic candidate Joe Biden need to do win the final presidential debate.
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In today's 21 News podcast, as Ohio looks more and more like it could be a deciding factor in the presidential race record numbers of early voters have already begun to flood the polls.
Noteworthy among them are tens of thousands of independents. So who can reach them and will they call for change or staying the course?
21 News managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with former Republican National Committee chair Michael Steele who says...it may be impossible to guess this time.
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In the latest edition of the 21 News podcast, Erin Simonek speaks with Pennsylvania Lt. Governor John Fetterman about the Wolf administration's push to legalize recreational marijuana use in the state.
Fetterman says he wants to see the legislature move quickly and says the science and the economics are on his side and that legalization is only a matter of time.
How would it work? How would it be regulated? And what could it mean for neighboring states like Ohio which currently allows for medical marijuana use only?
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Early voting is officially underway in Ohio and we're seeing people lined up at the boards of elections. With Ohio positioned once again as a state that could decide the election and concerns over the security of your vote, can we count on a fair election? When will we know who won? And how can I be sure my vote is counted?
Managing editor Justin Mitchell spoke with Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, who says despite any rhetoric to the contrary, Ohio will have a fair, accurate election no matter what.
On this episode of the 21 News Podcast, 2020 Democratic Presidential Candidate Joe Biden talks with Reporter Madison Tromler on issues important to Valley voters like Delphi salaried retirees; the makeup of Valley voters and his thoughts on the debate with President Trump.
In today's 21 News podcast, Helen Le Bouygues, Fake News ExpertHelen Le Bouygues, Fake News Expert and Founder of the Reboot Foundation, talks with WFMJ's Erin Simonek about how to detect fake news ahead of November's election.
Bouygues discusses the importance of proper news sourcing and the best ways to find unbias news content. She expands on how to critically evaluate news sources and how to fact check before forming an opinion. and Founder of the Reboot Foundation, talks with WFMJ's Erin Simonek about how to detect fake news ahead of November's election.
Bouygues discusses the importance of proper news sourcing and the best ways to find unbias news content. She expands on how to critically evaluate news sources and how to fact check before forming an opinion.
Listen up!
In today's edition of the 21 News Podcast, Lindsay McCoy talks with Lordstown Motors CEO Steve Burns.
Burns discusses taking the new Lordstown Endurance electric pickup truck to Washington D.C. Monday, Sept. 28, where he met with President Trump.
Burns talks about what the President had to say about the future of Voltage Valley.
Listen up!
He's the brother of Mark and Donnie Wahlberg, one of the stars of television's reality TV show "Wahlburgers" and the author of "The Big Hustle: A Boston Street Kid's Story of Addiction and Redemption."
In today's 21 News podcast, Jim Wahlberg talks about his battles with addiction, the understanding it took to get society through the peak of the opioid epidemic in 2017 and the fear that the pressures of the coronavirus pandemic will lead to a resurgence in drug use in society in the near future.
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In today's 21 News podcast, anchor Derek Steyer speaks with top White House economic adviser Peter Navarro about the plight of the Delphi Salaried Retirees.
Following a campaign stop in Ohio, Dayton Congressman Mike Turner said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine asked President Trump to intervene on behalf of Delphi salaried retirees who have argued for more than a decade that they were unfairly stripped of their pensions for which they had worked for and now the administration is taking an interest in the fight.
After years of promises from politicians from both parties and little action from Presidents, is there hope on the horizon?
What is the Trump administration's plan and how likely is it that these retirees will see concrete action?
In a special edition of the 21 News podcast, we hear from a panel of mental health experts and professionals to discuss World Suicide Prevention Day.
The panel, which includes Duane Piccirrilli of the Mahoning county Mental Health and Recovery Board, Mahoning county Juvenile Court Judge Theresa Dellick and Tony Coder, executive director of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, discuss signs you or a loved one may need to seek help, who is most at risk and the unique challenges and opportunities posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
In the 21 News exclusive, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine talks with 21 News anchor/reporter Lindsay McCoy about how he plans to use the state's rainy day fund to get the state through the next year, the possibility of future virus surges, and how he sees the holiday season panning out with the coronavirus pandemic still going on.
Listen up!
We talk a lot about Battleground Ohio and the role the state will have in choosing the next President, but the latest polling seems to indicate that Pennsylvania is now poised to play an even bigger role this time around. It's a state that Donald Trump won by one percentage point in 2016 and where Joe Biden appears to have some advantage right now.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, former PA Governor Ed Rendell talks about how close he expects the race to be and discusses the voters who voted for him in large numbers that Joe Biden would need to bring back to the Democratic party in order to pull off a win.
In this edition of the 21 News podcast, reporter Madison Tromler speaks with Mike Madrid, one of the founders of the Lincoln Project. No doubt you've heard of them. They're the group of Republicans, including former John McCain staffer Steve Schmidt and George Conway, the husband of Kellyanne Conway, who have split from the President and are now working to defeat him in November.
Now, they're putting their money where their mouths are, going live in Ohio with a new ad blitz urging GOP voters to cross party lines and vote for the Democratic nominee.
Madrid, who is a former political director for the California Republican party, says the group is aiming to win over just a small sliver of Republicans who he believes would make the difference between who comes out ahead in November.
The political season is now in high gear, the Democrats spending last week making their case to the voters and the president making his case for another term this week. In a special edition of the 21 News podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks to key players from both parties about where the race stands in Ohio and across the country (HINT: CLOSER THAN YOU THINK) and what the candidates' strategies need to be down the home stretch. Speaking for the Democrats is Ohio House Democratic leader Emilia Sykes and for the Republicans is Marc Lotter, director of strategic communications for the Trump campaign.
In today's 21 News podcast, multi-media producer Brandon Brown with Youngstown State University's Dr. Charles Howell of the Beeghly College of Education on how can adapt to the unusual school year ahead.
Whether students will be going in-person, remote or a hybrid of both, families across the Valley are bracing for the challenges ahead. Dr. Howell offers up some advice to parents to make the best of a difficult time.
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The U.S., the state and the Valley is hitting a pivotal moment ... unemployment numbers starting to fall. But with no new relief package in sight from Congress, people are still struggling. And businesses are still struggling as well.
21 News managing editor J. Breen Mitchell speaks with Todd McCracken, the president of the National Small Business Association about what businesses are still facing, and what it will take to help them to survive into the next year. What it will ultimately take for businesses not to just tread water, but one day thrive again.
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A recent survey from the Ohio Federation of Teachers found that more than two-thirds of teachers have serious concerns over returning to the classroom.
In today's 21 News Podcast, managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Leah Condon, a high school teacher in the Jackson-Milton School district. Condon says there is simply still too much unknown about the COVID-19 and how it can spread in settings such as classrooms.
Condon also discusses how parents and teachers need to work together, focusing on moving forward slowly and safely.
With all schools in the Valley announcing the reopening plans, this podcast gives an important insight from a teacher's perspective.
Listen up!
Tim Stried from the Ohio High School Athletic Association talks about whether it will be possible to move forward with a fall season and the obstacles that still remain including one of the biggest so far: testing for the coronavirus.
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, we speak with Dr. Adam Borland, clinical psychologist from the Cleveland Clinic, about longterm coping with anxiety and depression as the coronavirus pandemic hits the half year mark. Borland talks about what to focus on, what not to focus on and what some of the warning signs are that you or a loved one may need some help dealing with the stress of such a large, longterm crisis.
In today's 21 News podcast, internationally renowned virologist Dr. Benjamin Neuman, a Niles native and Biology Department Head for Texas A&M University, discusses whether it's safe to reopen daycares and gives his insight on where we are with the pandemic.
Any cause for optimism?
What should and shouldn't we be doing with schools?
Listen up!
Jennifer Brindisi speaks with teachers, school administrators, parents and medical experts about their concerns for returning back to school in the fall. How will it work? Can it be done safely? Will it be effective?
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, WFMJ managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Marc Lotter, President Trump's national director of communications for his 2020 re-election campaign.
Items discussed include the state of the 2020 race, whether the President's message is still resonating with voters outside of his base and what it all means for the three states likely to decide the election, Michigan, Pennsylvania and...you guessed it....Ohio.
Listen up!
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, Mahoning County Educational Service Center Superintendent Traci Hostetler talks about the challenges districts face planning a return to school in the fall. Hostetler says districts will all have their own distinct plans, but they will all be based on two or three different contingencies.
Will students all go back in the classroom, either full or part-time, barring some "worst-case scenario" in the fall? Listen and see what Hostetler said.
Hostetler says plans are developing and changing as new information comes in, including what happens if someone gets sick, what happens if there's an outbreak in the county, and how kids will learn and be fed in the event of another shutdown.
Listen up!
The COVID-19 pandemic has hurt most businesses, but the entertainment industry has been devastated. WFMJ's Glenn Stevens talks with JAC Management and JAC Live owner Eric Ryan, who manages and books shows for the Covelli Centre and the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.
In a special extended edition of the 21 News podcast, Malaynia Spiva moderates a wide ranging discussion on race relations with a diverse panel that includes faith leaders, political figures, community activists and historians who take a long, hard look at this moment in history.
The discussion is based around three basic questions:
What do you think people still don't understand about how we got here?
What makes this moment different from any previous, similar moment in history?
Where do we go from here?
The panel shares their wide breadth of experience, from the historical to the personal and in many cases, the candidly painful as they take an optimistic look towards the future.
In today's podcast, national political correspondent for Politico David Siders speaks with WFMJ news managing editor of content Justin Mitchel about the state of the 2020 election.
What role will Ohio play in deciding who is the next president of the U.S.?
Will the conventions play a role in making or breaking the candidates?
What about the debates?
And ultimately, how are the political polls any different than in the 2016 election?
Listen up!
WFMJ Today's morning anchor Christa Lamendola interviews CNBC auto analyst Phil Lebeau on the significance of the Lordstown Endurance as it is unveiled today officially. Where does it fit into the electric car market, what does it mean for the future of the Valley?
21 News reporter Andrew DiPaolo speaks with Dr. Linda Saif , a coronavirus expert whom we spoke with in early April.
Two months later, how does Dr. Saif think Ohio is doing with its handling of the coronavirus, now that case numbers are show some decline and the state is largely reopened? Are we through this now or are we in a lull between waves?
Listen up and see what Dr. Saif has to say.
Saif is a scientist at The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences and the College of Veterinary Medicine, also a member of Ohio State's Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), where she is a co-director for the Viruses and Emerging Pathogens Program. She is also a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a Distinguished University Professor at Ohio State, where she is a faculty member in the Food Animal Health Research Program.
WFMJ Sports Director Dana Balash speaks with Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted about what to expect when high school sports resume around Ohio and if it will be in time for fall sports.
Lt. Governor also talks with Dana about the concerns of keeping the athletes and the fans safe when contact sports, such as football, do return. Husted talks about how the reopening of businesses and restaurants around the state have gone while trying to keep COVID-19 in check.
Some great insight into what we can expect and when for high school sports fans and the students. Listen up!
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, managing editor of content Justin Mitchell speaks with Ty Powell, the organizer of the "We Matter" march in Warren on June 1.
At 19, Powell has been concerned with racial disparities and police brutality since she was a young child.
Powell said she saw the death of George Floyd as the moment she knew she had to become involved to make a change. She talks about how this moment in history is different because people are becoming more educated on the issues and divides within our country and how social media is working to hold those in power more accountable, forcing them to speak out more often.
Listen up to this riveting story.
In this exclusive interview, 21 News anchor Derek Steyer talks with Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, asking questions of concern from residents throughout the Valley.
- Will Valley and state schools reopen in the fall?
- Will the Canfield Fair take place this year?
- When can nursing home visitations resume?
- When will the mass gathering ban end?
Listen to these and many more important topics to everyone in the Valley.
During the months of the COVID-19 ordeal, economic hardship has hit lots of families throughout the Valley, and many families' tight budgets are getting stretched even tighter.
Fortunately, there's a lot that can be done do to maximize your grocery dollars by making sure the food you buy stays good longer—even fresh foods such as vegetables and eggs.
In today's edition of the 21 News Podcast anchor Christa Lamendola speaks Consumer Reports’ Amy Keating about how to stretch your food budget by stretching the shelf life of eggs, milk, flour, and more.
Listen up!
As the school year 2019-20 comes to a close, school districts around the Valley, around Ohio and around the nation, are all looking at what to do for the safety of students and staff if the coronavirus pandemic continues. Each school building and district may have unique issues from busing to occupancy.
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, J. Breen Mitchell, Managing Editor for News Content, speaks with Ana Chapman, the president of the Ohio Parent Teacher Association about the options being considered for schools to safely reopen in the fall or will the virus
College students face many challenges, especially in the pandemic world of higher education. Many current students many not being eligible for stimulus checks because they are still declared as dependents, even though they may be out of work or trying to start out on their own.
In today's WFMJ News podcast, Andrew DiPaolo speaks with Mark Kantrowitz, Forbes contributor, and publisher of savingforcollege.com.
Kantrowitz also discusses the challenges ahead, including the likelihood that the cost of college will increase significantly over the next few years.
Listen up!
As retail stores reopen around the Valley, what is the future for this already hard-hit industry? Will it be able to recover quickly or are shoppers' habits now changed by coronavirus fears of going out to stores? What changes in retail may be permanent?
In today's 21 News podcast, co-anchor/reporter Lindsay McCoy speaks with Katherine Cullen of the National Retail Federation about these very issues.
Listen up.
With social distancing in effect because of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are finding themselves using video conferencing apps, such as Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts, more and more, for work and for staying in touch with family. But there may be an unintended effect, "Zoom fatigue," or the feeling of tiredness, anxiousness, and worry that video calls bring.
In today's 21 News podcast, we talk with Dr. Henry Mahncke, neuroscientist, author, and CEO of Posit Science in San Francisco, CA., who explains why video conferencing is harder on your brain, which is causing that exhausted feeling.
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In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, a world-renowned coronavirus expert, Texas A&M virologist and Niles native, Dr. Benjamin Neuman, who was also a member of the team who named the virus, provides valuable insight about SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, as it is better known.
Dr. Neuman speaks about whether people can develop immunity to the virus, about testing for coronavirus and where it needs to be, and if the virus does return, what will that be like.
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, Managing Editor for News Content J. Breen Mitchell speaks about efforts to expand coronavirus testing with Dr. Lena Esmail from Youngstown's QUICKmed Urgent Care, asking the question everyone wants to know, "what will it take to get to a point where we can test everyone?"
Late last week, Gov. Mike DeWine said more testing swabs and more reagent to analyze samples will allow for more virus testing in Ohio – 7,200 a day beginning this week, with the number expected to increase to 22,000 daily by late May.
The state is expected to be testing an average of 7,200 people each day starting this week and projects to increase to 22,000 daily by late May. With the population of Ohio just under 12 million people, testing 22,000 tests per day means it will take more than 545 days for everyone in Ohio to get tested once.
Dr. Esmail also discusses whether or not we will have enough testing in place by the fall to stay ahead of any future outbreaks.
On today's 21 News podcast, anchor Derek Steyer talks with the president and CEO of the Ohio Restaurant Association, John Barker.
It has been more than a month since all bars and restaurants closed for except carry out, how will these establishments rebound?
What are others doing to get through during these tough times?
What does the future hold for dining in?
Tune in to find out what the odds of your favorite restaurant and bar making it through the pandemic.
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, WFMJ anchor Leslie Barrett speaks with Dr. Constantine Economus, an obstetrician-gynecologist in Boardman, about the concerns and issues that are facing pregnant women and new mothers during the coronavirus pandemic.
Dr. Economus discusses what doctor's offices are doing to keep all patients safe; staying up with daily changes and information on COVID-19, discuss the risk of transmission from mother to fetus, and offers tips to guide new mothers and their babies through these sometimes frightening times.
In today's edition of the 21 News podcast, WFMJ news anchor Derek Steyer speaks with Youngstown State University President Jim Tressel about the adjustments 2020 graduates will have to make as they enter the job market amid the record levels of unemployment hitting the state and the nation.
Derek also discusses with YSU President Tressel the possibility of whether on-campus classes could resume before 2021, and how the coronavirus crisis may impact the university's budget for years to come.
In today's edition of the WFMJ 21 News podcast, managing editor of news J. Breen Mitchell speaks with a representative from Direction Home of Eastern Ohio about ways to make sure your elderly family members are cared for during the coronavirus crisis.
Community liaison for Direction Home of Eastern Ohio, Cassandra Valentini, talked about what happens if loved ones get sick, what's available to make sure they stay healthy and some ways to keep from getting lonely and depressed while riding out the stay at home order without being able to visit in person.
In this edition, WFMJ reporter Corey McCrae speaks with Monsignor John Zuraw of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, about the condition of Bishop George Murray, whose leukemia has recently returned.
Murry, the bishop of the Youngstown Diocese since 2007, which includes Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Stark, Portage, and Ashtabula counties, was first diagnosed with acute leukemia in 2018. By July 2019, his leukemia had returned. In October, he was declared to be in remission and in January, he returned to full-time work.
In this podcast, Bishop Zuraw discusses the current status of the Catholic Diocese, and spoke about the financial status of several churches, and what they are doing to make it through these trying times. The bishop also mentioned ways that you can still contribute to church finances.
Lindsay McCoy speaks with Senator Rob Portman about what role the federal government should play in helping in Ohio's hospitals and economy through the coronavirus crisis.
In this edition of the 21 News Podcast, we're talking with State Senator and well-known Valley grocer Mike Rulli.
Rulli talks from his perspective both as a lawmaker and a businessman about what new restrictions on stores will mean when you go to the store, whether there's any relief from difficulty finding necessary items on the shelves and what the future of Ohio's economy is likely to be when we come out of the other side of the coronavirus crisis.
21 news managing editor Justin Mitchell speaks with Bert Cene, the executive director of the Mahoning and Columbiana county Workforce Development Board about Ohio's record unemployment caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Cene discusses the online issues people are having trying to file for unemployment and whether the problems have been fixed yet and also shares what the employment landscape is likely to look like when we get to the other side of the COVID-19 crisis.
In this phone interview podcast, WFMJ reporter Michelle Nicks speaks with Mark Vortruba, the interim chair of the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland. Dr. Vortruba's area of expertise includes the implications of job loss for displaced workers and communities, and the consequences of low-quality healthcare to the US economy.
Michelle discusses the record-setting unemployment in the Valley, Ohio and through the U.S., while Votruba discusses the long-term economic impact this may have on people and the country and looks at the deficits we have accumulated and growing because of the pandemic.
Will this pandemic lead to a permanent shift of work from home or educate from home?
How long can the government support everyone's standard of living?
Could this lead to a return to a higher crime rate?
Can this lead to higher alcohol, drugs and mental health issues?
Listen to this exclusive podcast and get an inside look at what our future may hold.
In an exclusive podcast interview, WFMJ anchor Derek Steyer speaks with scientist Linda Saif, an international authority on viral diseases of animals that also sicken humans, about the coronavirus pandemic and what to expect going forward.
Listen to our in-depth, exclusive interview with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton as they share information about the Covid-19 virus pandemic affecting the Valley and the state with 21 News anchor/reporter Lindsay McCoy.