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Heart of Glass Podcast

Heart of Glass Podcast

By Heart of Glass Podcast

A Toledo, Ohio-focused podcast, giving you inspiring interviews and mental health-friendly content.

Connect with us on social media:
Instagram: @heartofglassthepod
Facebook: @heartofglassthepod

Support the Heart of Glass Podcast:
www.buymeacoffee.com/heartofglasspod
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S2 Ep 5: AJ Reynolds

Heart of Glass PodcastJul 27, 2023

00:00
01:02:59
S2 Ep 5: AJ Reynolds

S2 Ep 5: AJ Reynolds

Meet AJ Reynolds, a talented musician and an integral part of Toledo, Ohio's vibrant music community. From a young age, AJ's love for music was sparked by watching his parents' old MTV tapes, igniting a passion that led him to pick up the guitar and join his elementary school's guitar group at just 8 years old. Toledo has played a significant role in shaping his life as a musician, and this episode promises to be a heartfelt exploration of art, passion, and mental health. We're thrilled to welcome AJ Reynolds as a guest on the Heart of Glass Podcast, where he'll share his life experience and shed light on the vibrant Toledo music scene that has embraced him as an outsider-turned-insider, proving that dreams can be realized in the 419 music community. =========================== Connect with Heart of Glass Podcast on Social Media: =========================== ➡︎Instagram: @heartofglassthepod ➡︎Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartofglassthepod =========================== Support the Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/heartofglasspod =========================== #heartofglassthepod #toledo #podcasts #mentalhealthawareness Our mission at the Heart of Glass Podcast is to shine a light on the incredible people who inhabit Toledo, Ohio and to bring a greater focus to mental health awareness.

Jul 27, 202301:02:59
S2 Ep4: Isabella Weik

S2 Ep4: Isabella Weik

Meet Isabella Weik, a proud Toledo School for the Arts and University of Toledo graduate. As an ambassador for Toledo and a young person herself, Isabella is well-positioned to share the perspective of Gen Z on life in Toledo.  From her battle with a rare autoimmune disease to her impressive list of accomplishments at UT and involvement in real estate development, Isabella's diverse experiences have shaped her outlook on life and her ability to overcome challenges. Her passion for Toledo's revitalization and work ethic will inspire those seeking to create a bright future in the Glass City. 

We're thrilled to welcome Isabella Weik as a guest on the Heart of Glass Podcast, where she’ll share her positive vibes, impressive ambition, and passion for the growth of Toledo. Join us as we dive into her inspiring journey and learn how she stays zen while reaching for the stars.


===========================

Connect with Heart of Glass Podcast on Social Media: ===========================

➡︎Instagram: @heartofglassthepod ➡︎Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartofglassthepod . ===========================

Support the Podcast:

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/heartofglasspod .===========================

#heartofglassthepod #toledo #podcasts #mentalhealthawareness


Our mission at the Heart of Glass Podcast is to shine a light on the incredible people who inhabit Toledo, Ohio.

Jul 13, 202301:31:53
S2 Ep3: Lexi Hayman-Staples

S2 Ep3: Lexi Hayman-Staples

Meet Lexi Hayman-Staples, a well-loved, prominent figure in Toledo's LGBTQIA+ community, an accomplished artist, and the founder of Toledo Pride, which now attracts over 20,000 attendees each year. Lexi's lifelong passion for the arts has led her to become the Artistic Director for the Collingwood Art Center, where she inspires others to pursue their creative passions. Her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive community is admirable, and her journey is inspiring. We're thrilled to welcome Lexi Hayman-Staples as a guest on the Heart of Glass Podcast, where she'll share her contagious energy, passion for Toledo, and aspirations for the future. Join us as we dive into Lexi's unique journey and explore her vision for Toledo's LGBTQIA+ community and the arts. =========================== Connect with Heart of Glass Podcast on Social Media: =========================== ➡︎Instagram: @heartofglassthepod ➡︎Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartofglassthepod . =========================== Support the Podcast:

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/heartofglasspod . =========================== #heartofglassthepod #toledo #podcasts #mentalhealthawareness Our mission at the Heart of Glass Podcast is to shine a light on the incredible people who inhabit Toledo, Ohio.

Jun 29, 202301:09:16
S2 Ep2: Chris Daher

S2 Ep2: Chris Daher

Meet Chris Daher, better known as Peapod, a household name on the Toledo radio airwaves for nearly 12 years. Beyond his impressive tenure in broadcasting, Chris has made a name for himself as a huge supporter of the local music scene and as a commentator for pro wrestling. As a multi-passionate individual, he's a true inspiration for those seeking to pursue diverse interests without sacrificing their commitment and energy. We're thrilled to welcome Chris Daher as a guest on our podcast, where he'll share his experience, personal evolution, and passion for Toledo. Join us as we dive into his unique journey and explore why the Glass City is the perfect place to dream big. =========================== Connect with Heart of Glass Podcast on Social Media: =========================== ➡︎Instagram: @heartofglassthepod ➡︎Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartofglass... =========================== Support the Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/heartofg... =========================== #heartofglassthepod #toledo #podcasts #mentalhealthawareness Our mission at the Heart of Glass Podcast is to shine a light on the incredible people who inhabit Toledo, Ohio.

Jun 15, 202301:08:08
S2 Ep1: Jelani Maliik

S2 Ep1: Jelani Maliik

Meet Jelani Maliik, a dynamic, young creative director and musician, known professionally as Knightheart. For the past eight years, he has honed his craft, launching multiple full-length projects and captivating audiences across the region with his live performances. In addition to his music career, Jelani has founded his own company, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills.

Jelani is a true believer in the power of manifestation, having seen firsthand the profound impact this mindset can have on one's life. Despite facing adversity, including periods of homelessness, Jelani has remained steadfast in his pursuit of success and has since become a driving force behind a city-wide movement.

As a guest on the Heart of Glass Podcast, Jelani Maliik brings a wealth of experience, insight, and inspiration, making him a testament to the magic and potential of Toledo.

Jun 01, 202349:04
S1 Ep2: Nicole Khoury

S1 Ep2: Nicole Khoury

Nicole Khoury is best known for being the powerhouse frontwoman of her band Arctic Clam, her impressive legal career, and for being the founder of beloved event “Acoustics For Autism”. Nicole and Ashley talk about her deep Toledo roots and what her incredible support system means to her. She opened up about navigating an intense campaign and what it’s like to be a woman in a historically male-dominated field. Nicole also pulled back the curtain on the buildup and hurdles to the first Acoustics For Autism; and she broke down what it was like having her dad on stage with her this year after he was only weeks out from a quintuple bypass. She dug into her musical roots and the history of Arctic Clam, and we confirmed that she’s pretty fond of Scott.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Nicole Khoury.
Mar 11, 202301:13:47
S1 Ep17: Tiernen Rice *bonus episode*

S1 Ep17: Tiernen Rice *bonus episode*

Tiernen is one of the founders of the podcast and THE reason why it’s so visually appealing. They are a talented photographer and videographer and excel in both areas. They’ve always had a passion for art, whether that be music, painting, video, photography, or 3D design. When most people were pursuing sports, relationships, or passing Algebra in school, they were behind a computer practicing video editing, photography, and visual effects. They’re also non-binary and believe that it’s very important to let it be known that this is who they are. Their goal is to help make people feel comfortable around non-gender conforming individuals and to help the next generation to know that no matter who you are, what you look like, or what your truth is, you can be successful, happy, and passionate. Tiernen talks with Ashley about their difficult upbringing and coinciding loss of their father. They share how diving into music put a stop to bullying. They told Ashley about their life changing school move and the birth of their daughter while trying to navigate the pressures of senior year. They also dive into the birth of their love for photography & videography and how they made it a career. Tiernen talks about the impact of spiritual trauma and not letting it beat them. They also talk with Ashley about what it’s like living with Bipolar 2, and they share about why it’s so important to them, as a non-binary person, to be a great advocate. We also reaffirmed that their couch parkour skills are on point. Humans of the Glass City, I give you Tiernen Rice. Trigger warning: This episode contains multiple mentions of drug use and suicide.
Dec 16, 202201:31:38
S1 Ep16: Jason Kelley

S1 Ep16: Jason Kelley

Jason Kelley is, first and foremost, a devoted husband and proud father. A United States Marine Corps veteran, he served in Iraq for 6 months back in 2003. He is also a former rapper and has shared the stage with several national artists. On top of all of that, he is the owner of Book That DJ, a local dj service company; and First Class Transit, an airport transportation service. The author of two wedding planning tips books and a supporter of local talent, everything he does is in service of creativity. Jason tells Ashley what it was like growing up in Ashtabula, Ohio, and why it ultimately wasn’t for him. He opens up about the tragic death of his father at a young age and how it’s impacted him long term. He pulls back the curtain on his time as a Marine and his he subsequently moved to Toledo. He shares what drew him to the Glass City and why he loves it so much. He breaks down his decision to leave the corporate world and why being a dishwasher at a local pizzeria was the best job he’s ever had. He gushes about his wife and how they became business partners. He takes us on a journey through his rap career and the doors that it opened and how it fueled the career trajectory that he loves. Jason tells Ashley about the birth of Book That DJ and what the business looks like today. He closes about sharing what it means to him to see his wife and daughter happy and thriving. We also learn that he is an incredible host and great gift giver.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Jason Kelley.

Trigger Warning:
8:30-9:20
Oct 01, 202201:08:19
S1 Ep15: Abby Sarabia

S1 Ep15: Abby Sarabia

Abby Sarabia was born and raised here in Toledo. She’s a musician, entrepreneur, and social influencer in the music space. Her life’s mission is to provide the youth of Toledo with more job opportunities in creative realms, and everything that she does is centered around the creative revitalization of our city and its residents. Abby talks with Ashley about growing up in chaos and the ripple effect (both positive and negative) that it’s had. She opens up about her Bipolar 2 diagnosis, the self-insight that it gave her, and how she’s learned to lean into and manage it. She talks about the importance that basketball had in her life when she was younger and how it led her to play college ball and her subsequent dive into her career as a musician. Abby pulls back the curtain on her work ethic and what it takes to elevate one’s self as a creative. She also shares why Creator’s Club is the premiere hub for all things emerging musician. She opens up about the incredible work that she and her father are doing, with TPS students, through the Sarabia Family Foundation. She also share why Toledo is a “must visit” city. We also learned that she is one heck of a social media guru and has an impressive handle on algorithms.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome, Abby Sarabia.
Sep 07, 202253:16
S1 Ep14: Becca Ferstle & Leann Cantrell

S1 Ep14: Becca Ferstle & Leann Cantrell

Becca Ferstle and Leann Cantrell are partners in both the personal and professional sense. They are a married couple who felt passionately about creating and fostering a safe space for all members of the Toledo LGBTQ+ community. They’ve definitely succeeded in doing just that, as the owners of Grindhrs Coffee & Community. This very special coffee shop has become a hub for creatively-crafted coffee drinks, entertainment, and as a place to belong. Becca and Leann tell Ashley how they met and fell in love and what it was like growing up as members of the LGBTQ+ community. They share why the love the Toledo LGBT community and what makes it special. They share how they came up with the concept of Grindhrs and why it was important for them to open the safe space that they always wanted while they were growing up. They talk about their partnership with Uncommon Coffee Roasters and what sets Grindhrs apart. They also talk about future plans and why Toledo is the place to be. Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Becca Ferstle and Leann Cantrell.
Sep 01, 202237:48
S1 Ep13: Tom Clawson

S1 Ep13: Tom Clawson

Tom Clawson has lived in Toledo since the early 80’s. He’s led a very interesting life that’s included hitchhiking cross-country and working on a Texas shrimp boat. He is a singer/songwriter and the front man for the Blues Rock band, Buck69, and he runs a Facebook group called, “Playing Tonight in Toledo”, that offers a platform for local musicians to advertise their gigs. If you’re a repeat watcher or listener of the podcast, you’re already familiar with his work because you hear it at the beginning and end of each episode.
Yes, Glass City humans, he’s the writer and performer of our intro/outro song, “I Am Toledo”. Tom tells Ashley what it was like growing up in Warren, Ohio, and what led him to head out on the road at the age of 16. He shares the ups and downs of hitchhiking across the country in the 70s and all of the adventures that he experienced. Tom and Ashley talk about processing life through songwriting and what it means to write for yourself. He shares why Toledo is a great place to be a musician, and why he wanted to create an online platform for the music community. As a perfect ending note to the conversation, Tom and Ashley talk about how he came to write the song that’s become synonymous with the podcast. We definitely confirmed that Tom doesn’t realize how cool he really is.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome our theme song contest winner, Tom Clawson.
Aug 24, 202250:35
S1 Ep12: Cassidy Ladd

S1 Ep12: Cassidy Ladd

Cassidy Ladd is a Northwest Ohio resident, serving our community through her passion and artistry. She is the owner and creator of Vibe Garden Images- a boutique wedding photography business that’s focused on radical personalization and authenticity. She places a big focus on connection with her clients and helping each one to better connect with themselves. Cassidy talks with Ashley about the extraordinary group of friends that she met in middle school and how they helped her to appreciate everything that makes her unique. She also shares how she found her new tribe in college and why having a great support system is important. Cassidy talks about falling in love and how her boyfriend was instrumental in her exploration of photography. She reveals how a botched interview was the tipping point to fully sending her into the arms of photography and her major “Aha moment”. She shares why she loves what she does so much and pulls the curtain back on her creative process with her clients. She finishes by talking with Ashley about why connection is essential. We also decided that she might be the most upbeat, positive person we’ve ever met. Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Cassidy Ladd.
Aug 19, 202240:42
S1 Ep11: Dr. Deitra Hickey

S1 Ep11: Dr. Deitra Hickey

Dr. Deitra Hickey worked for Toledo Public Schools for 17 years. She is now the owner of Serenity Health & Wellness Center and Serenity Nail Salon & Spa in Maumee. Dr. Hickey is a motivational speaker who presents all over the United States and internationally, even as far as Austria and Germany. She has authored three books, and for the last seven years, she’s had a weekly segment on 93.5 WRQN called, “Life Coach Tuesdays with Dr. D”. Deitra dealt with significant adversity in her childhood, and now she dedicates her life to helping others overcome their obstacles and reach their maximum personal and professional potential. Deitra talks with Ashley about the exciting changes that are happening in Toledo and the improvements that she’s witnessed over the years. She shares about the extreme adversity that she experienced as a child and how she processed and overcame the circumstances. Deitra shares about her time in Toledo Public Schools and how her time there influenced her decision to obtain a degree in school psychology. She shares what led her to open Serenity Health & Wellness Center and the positive impact that it’s had on the community. She pulls the curtain back on her life as a motivational speaker and what it’s like having a self-help radio segment, and we confirmed that she has an excellent sense of humor. Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Dr. Deitra Hickey.
Trigger Warning: 05:50-08:25
Aug 10, 202257:18
S1 Ep10: Tyler Ritter

S1 Ep10: Tyler Ritter

Tyler Ritter is a talented, Toledo-based photographer, videographer, producer, and songwriter. He is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and proponent of mental health, and his drive and hunger to learn has helped him to navigate the personal tragedies that he’s experienced. Tyler talks with Ashley about his initial deep dive into spirituality and how he found and fell in love with health and fitness. Tyler opens up about one of the most traumatic experiences of his life and how it led him to no longer identify as spiritual. He also talks about what it’s meant to him to have his best friend (our podcast producer/videographer), Tiernen, there to support him through his healing journey. He shares why therapy has been an eye-opening experience, and he and Ashley talk about the dangers of the comparison game. Tyler opens up about his entrance into learning about producing and the events that led him there. He shares what inspires him to create, and he talks about how he found photography and videography. He also shared what he loves about creative collaboration and gave some valuable advice to prospective producers. We also determined that this was definitely the “Tiernen Rice Tribute” episode. Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Tyler Ritter.

Trigger Warnings:
Drug Use: 2:50-3:15
Suicidal Ideations: 15:53-16:20
Alcoholism: 37:15-37:35
Aug 03, 202259:08
S1 Ep9: Tim McMahon

S1 Ep9: Tim McMahon

Tim McMahon is the award-winning producer and host of “Four One Nosh” and “One Tank Travel” on Buckeye Community Arts Network (BCAN). He’s also an aspiring voice actor, a freelance videographer and editor (under Maple Street Media, LLC). He’s someone who is always up for adventure, challenges, and ways in which to grow as a human being. Tim talks with Ashley about growing up in a pop culture-centered household and how he fell in love with TV and movies. He also shares his fondness for doing impressions and Saturday Night Live. Tim shares about his journey from radio to television and reminisces about the time that he was a contestant on the show “Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?”. He shares why he loves working for BCAN and what it’s been like producing and hosting “Four One Nosh” and “One Tank Travel”. Tim opens about his personal growth journey and shares why he loves Toledo. We also got to hear his excellent Phil Hartman impression.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Tim McMahon.
Jul 27, 202201:02:35
S1 Ep8: Steve Kiessling

S1 Ep8: Steve Kiessling

Steve Kiessling is a self-described lifelong nonprofit guy that has lived in the Glass City area since the late 90s. The former Executive Director of Nature’s Nursery, he is currently the director of Toledo Animal Rescue helping to care for and provide shelter for homeless and abandoned dogs and cats. He’s lived an interesting life that has taken him all over the country, and he’s an excellent storyteller. Steve talks with Ashley about what it was like growing up in a Philly suburb and his journey to the University of Virginia where he flexed his athletic muscles. He shares what it was like to see the birth of Dave Matthews’ career firsthand. Steve talks about his wife Krista and the interesting and well-traveled start to their relationship. He talks about his history in the nonprofit sector and what it’s been like to be the director of Toledo Animal Rescue. Steve speaks candidly about his mental health and how instrumental his wife has been in helping him to stay on track. He brags about his daughters and elaborates on the four pillars of importance for his family- music, plants, pets, and food. He closes out by sharing what he loves about living in the Glass City area, and he and Ashley enjoy reminiscing about how they first met. Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Steve Kiessling.
Jul 20, 202201:07:40
S1 Ep7: Jeff Stewart

S1 Ep7: Jeff Stewart

Jeff Stewart is a Toledo native and full time recording and visual artist. His name is synonymous with the Glass City original music scene, and one of our recent guests described him as a true renaissance man. His songs have been placed in several films throughout the years, including his song, “Tonight, I Got You”- which was featured in the 2020 major motion picture “Triumph”. Beyond Jeff’s outstanding artistic abilities, he is known for being one of the nicest guys that you will ever meet.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Jeff Stewart. Jeff talks with Ashley about his desire to “shed some skin” and reinvent himself. He shares what it was like to grow up in the Glass City and what makes our town special. Jeff walks Ashley through his creative processes for both his visually artistic endeavors as well as songwriting. He elaborates on the life-changing heartbreaks that he experienced, and he dives into the aspects of being fully immersed in the nightlife scene as a musician. He also explains why he changed his approach to recording. Jeff and Ashley have a candid conversation about alcohol and its place in the music scene. We learn that he is over the moon for his fiancé, Kendra, and we reconfirm that he is still one of the nicest guys in Toledo.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Jeff Stewart.
Jul 13, 202201:12:52
S1 Ep6: Patrick McCarty

S1 Ep6: Patrick McCarty

Patrick McCarty started Guy in the 419 as nothing more than a fun hobby in November of 2016. As he began discovering more local businesses, meeting the owners and staff, and experiencing fun events, this hobby became his passion. By August of 2017, with the support of his family, he launched Guy in the 419 as his full-time career. He has dedicated himself to exploring everything Northwest Ohio has to offer, and he eagerly shares those experiences with the people who follow him on social media. Pat talks to Ashley about where his love for performance originated. He shares why he parted ways with musical theatre and what led him to explore religious studies. Pat gets vulnerable about the sacrifices he had to make to find his calling and why he loves our city so much. He also walked us through a perfect Saturday in the Glass City.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Patrick McCarty.
Jul 06, 202201:13:22
S1 Ep5: Angel Tipping

S1 Ep5: Angel Tipping

Angel Tipping recently moved back to Toledo from Southern California after completing her four-year enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps. A talented singer/songwriter, she came back to Toledo specifically to be closer to her family and friends while pursuing music again in her hometown. She also intends to attend college to study marketing. Angel talks with Ashley about what it’s been like to transition back into civilian life. She and Ashley reminisce about her initial entrance into the Glass City music community. Angel also opened up about the toxic elements of growing up in conservative, evangelical Christianity. She shared her experience as a veteran seeking mental health care. She also talked with Ashley about why she decided to join the Marine Corps.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Angel Tipping.

Jun 29, 202201:10:11
S1 Ep4: Ryan Roth

S1 Ep4: Ryan Roth

Ryan Roth is a multi-faceted artist and musician. He is a proud and devoted Father, a talented singer/songwriter, painter, sculptor, carver, and food artist. He is also a theological, philosophical, agnostic, mystic and just happens to be one of the humblest individuals on the planet. Ryan talks with Ashley about what it’s like to be the father of an awesome trans child and how he coped with his youngest’s harrowing birth. He breaks down his creative process as a sculptor and explained how even his ice sculptures have a sense of permanence. Ryan delves into his spiritual journey and what made him decide to leave the pulpit. He gives us the scoop on the birth of the Sideshow and why this project means so much to him. Ryan also dove deep as he and Ashley talked about why he is a great example of healthy masculinity and how he grew out of toxic patterns. Ashley shone a light on Ryan’s extreme humility and the incredible story of the mutual respect and affection shared between Ryan and our very first guest, Big C. Finally, it wouldn’t be a “Heart of Glass Podcast” if it didn’t end in a hug.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Ryan Roth.
Jun 22, 202201:20:25
S1 Ep3: Ella Cole

S1 Ep3: Ella Cole

Ella Cole is a local 20-year-old singer/songwriter. She attended IMTA (International Modeling and Talent Association), in Los Angeles, where she won “Songwriter of the Year” and 1st runner up “Singer of the Year” in 2020. She has overcome a variety of significant obstacles in her young life and is very open about her mental health journey. Ella talks with Ashley about how she fell in love with singing. She detailed out what is was like navigating middle school and high school while experiencing extreme bullying and the demands of being a creative “triple threat”. She also shared the excitement of attending IMTA winning “Songwriter of the Year”. Ella shed light about why she has temporarily stepped out of the spotlight and how therapy saved her life. We also learned that she is wise beyond her years, and her mom is her best friend.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Ella Cole.
Trigger Warning:
This episode contains multiple mentions of suicide. If this is a trigger for you, please proceed with caution.
No one deserves to suffer in silence.
If you or someone you know is thinking about self harm or suicide, help is available.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Jun 15, 202201:10:59
S1 E1: Corey “Big C” Coley

S1 E1: Corey “Big C” Coley

Corey “Big C” Coley is best known for being the charismatic front man and co-founder of the cover band the Distant Cousinz. When he’s not winning over hearts and ear drums on stage, he’s a Home Health Aide by day and a manager of two Department of Developmental Disabilities homes by night. Big C and Ashley talk about his strict upbringing and his transformation from former gang member to the incredible human that he is today. He opened up about his time in therapy and why it’s so important to him, and he broke down the history of his band “Distant Cousinz”. We also discovered that he could have a future as the new spokesperson for “Heart of Glass” vodka.
Humans of the Glass City, please welcome Corey “Big C” Coley.

Where to find Big C on social media:
Instagram: @bigccoley and @distantcousinz

Trigger Warnings:
Suicide (11:00-11:30)
Gun Violence (49:21-49:47)
Jun 01, 202256:28
Heart of Glass Podcast Trailer

Heart of Glass Podcast Trailer

An introduction to the Heart of Glass Podcast: An interview-style video podcast, giving you an in-depth, intimate look at the people who make up the heartbeat of the Glass City.
May 13, 202201:54