Welcome to a fascinating glimpse into the future of public safety happening right now in Dublin. Deputy Chief Greg Lattanzi and Sergeant Andrew Clark join us to reveal how cutting-edge technology is transforming emergency response in our community.

Dublin has emerged as a national leader in technologically-enhanced policing, becoming the first law enforcement agency in the country to partner with both schools and the fire department for drone launch sites. The results are remarkable: drones can now be deployed anywhere in the city within 90 seconds, providing critical real-time information during emergencies. What started as a modest program with seven officers and three drones in 2020 has evolved into a sophisticated network of strategically placed docking stations that serve as force multipliers during major events and everyday emergencies alike.

But the innovations don't stop there. The City is deploying two 400-pound autonomous security robots that patrol the Rock Cress Parking Garage and Riverside Crossing Park around the clock. These highly visible robots, equipped with two-way communication capabilities to 911 dispatch, serve both as crime deterrents and as additional "eyes" in areas. Complementing these technologies are 22 license plate reading cameras strategically placed throughout Dublin, helping officers quickly identify stolen vehicles and individuals with outstanding warrants while providing valuable investigative data when crimes occur.

Behind all this technology stands Dublin's newly formed Business District Unit, focusing specifically on the unique needs of high-density areas like Bridge Park. Using data-driven approaches centered on deploying resources in the "right places, right times and for the right reasons," these specialized officers address everything from traffic concerns to emerging crime patterns.

The most powerful takeaway from our conversation? Technology serves the community, not the other way around. As Deputy Chief Lattanzi reminds us: "You're never bothering us. That's what we're here for. We're dedicated to service, fully engaged in public safety." Tune in to discover how Dublin is leading the way in balancing technological innovation with compassionate, community-focused policing.

The magic of dance comes alive in this captivating conversation with The Step Crew, the innovative dance ensemble that blends Ottawa Valley step dancing, Irish step dancing, and elements of tap into a mesmerizing performance style all their own. Brothers Jon and Nathan Pilatzky join Cara Butler (Jon's wife) to share the remarkable journey that brought them from separate dance traditions to creating a show that puts movement front and center.

Their connection with the Dublin Irish Festival runs deep. "Dublin was the first festival to hire us as The Step Crew way back in 2007," Cara explains, highlighting how the festival took a chance on their then-new concept. This marks their sixth appearance, underscoring the special relationship between these world-class performers and what they describe as a "professional yet organic" festival atmosphere.

The trio's performance credentials dazzle – from appearances on late-night television to sharing stages with music legends Emmylou Harris and Alison Krauss at the historic Ryman Auditorium. Nathan (affectionately nicknamed "Crazy Legs" for his rubber-like dancing ability) calls that performance "one of the highlights of my career." Their journey began with The Chieftains, where the brothers first met Cara and discovered how their different dance styles could complement each other.

Throughout the conversation, their warmth and humor shine through, especially during rapid-fire questions revealing personal quirks – from Cara's protein snack obsession to Nathan's love of hand-washing dishes and John's encyclopedic knowledge of Seinfeld episodes. But what truly resonates is their passion for performance and their genuine love for the Dublin Irish Festival community.

Don't miss your chance to experience The Step Crew's unique fusion of dance traditions at this year's Dublin Irish Festival. As Cara puts it, "You're just going to have so much fun.    Visit DublinIrishFestival.org for all the information you need.

Dublin stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey as City leadership works to implement the Envision Dublin Community Plan. At the heart of this transformation lies the West Innovation District—our western gateway and the largest tract of undeveloped land remaining in our city.

The proposed rezoning of 370 acres within this district represents both opportunity and responsibility. Having evolved over two decades from the Economic Advancement Zone to hosting institutions like Ohio University's College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nestle Quality Assurance Center and OSU Wexner Medical Center, this area is poised for thoughtful growth that supports Dublin's economic future while respecting community character.

Our planning process balances multiple priorities: private property rights for landowners (many who've held their land since the 1970s), economic development needs to attract high-growth employers who strengthen our tax base, and questions about traffic, infrastructure and land use compatibility. This balancing act doesn't happen by accident—it's the result of meticulous planning, multiple layers of review and genuine community engagement. Any development following rezoning would undergo Dublin's thorough review process that has consistently delivered the high-quality projects our community expects. Our transportation planning looks ahead to 2050, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth before development occurs.

City Council has extended the rezoning ordinance hearing process to gather additional community input, with another reading scheduled for August. This approach mirrors successful processes used for transformative projects like the Bridge Street District and The Corners development.

Join the conversation at DublinOhioUSA.gov/west-innovation-district-rezoning/ where you'll find FAQs and resources or attend upcoming community conversations throughout July. Share your thoughts through the "We're Listening" button—because the best solutions emerge when we work together.

The legendary Don Barnes, co-founder and frontman of 38 Special, takes us on a riveting journey through five decades of rock and roll stardom. With his signature raspy voice and warm storytelling style, Barnes reveals the fascinating origin of the band's name—a police standoff where an officer threatened to "shoot the lock off" their rehearsal space with his 38 Special revolver.

Growing up in Jacksonville, Florida—what Barnes calls "the Liverpool of the South"—shaped the band's musical foundation as teenagers playing sailors' clubs alongside future members of Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers. This naval town connection forged their musical DNA and taught them the fundamentals of songwriting by covering popular hits.

Barnes shares a surprising revelation about 38 Special's true influences. Despite being categorized as Southern rock, the band drew heavy inspiration from British Invasion artists like The Beatles and Jeff Beck. After their first three albums "went straight over the cliff," they discovered their winning formula: stripping songs down to what Barnes calls "muscle and melody"—powerful guitar work paired with strong melodies and relatable stories drawn from real-life experiences.

Don also shares other passions with Lindsay and Bruce that include keeping sets of golf clubs on the tour bus. And speaking of that bus, it rolls into Dublin as 38 Special and Kansas headline another rockin' Independence Day celebration at Coffman Stadium!

What does it take to help lead a city where 99% of residents rate it as an excellent/very good place to live? In this illuminating conversation, we sit down with Mike Barker, Dublin's new Deputy City Manager, as he reflects on his first 100 days in this crucial role.

Barker brings a wealth of experience from his 11 years as Public Service Director in New Albany and his earlier career in Westerville and the private sector. His engineering background and problem-solving mindset prove valuable as he oversees Dublin's daily operations, including public service, engineering, transportation, and mobility.

Barker shares candid insights about his first Memorial Tournament experience from the city's perspective, noting the surprising scale of the event and the seamless collaboration across city departments that makes such world-class events possible. This sets the stage for his approach to other major initiatives, including the Capital Improvement Program, West Innovation District, and Sports Ohio Complex.

What stands out most is Barker's servant leadership philosophy. "That's really the leader I want to be," he explains, recounting formative experiences watching leaders who worked alongside their teams through challenges. This approach, combined with his commitment to maintaining Dublin's exceptional standards, offers a glimpse into how the city sustains its remarkable 99% resident satisfaction rating.

The conversation takes personal turns as Barker discusses his Youngstown roots, crediting his wife of nearly 24 years and colleagues as mentors who've helped him develop more open-minded perspectives. A father of two baseball-playing sons, he finds his greatest relaxation watching them play.   Plus, stay tuned to hear Mike share with Lindsay and Bruce, his go-to karaoke songs!

75 episodes is a milestone worth celebrating, and we've marked the occasion with quite possibly our most distinguished guest to date: Barbara Nicklaus, the 2025 Memorial Tournament Honoree and affectionately known as the "First Lady of Golf."

Barbara takes us back to 1957 when she met a young Jack Nicklaus on the steps of Mendenhall Lab at Ohio State University – a meeting that would change both their lives forever. With refreshing candor and warm humor, she shares how their relationship blossomed despite her initial unfamiliarity with golf. "I didn't know golf existed when I met Jack," she reveals with a smile, before recounting her first golf lesson that left her wondering why Jack practiced so much after she made several pars on her first outing.

Throughout the conversation with Lindsay and Bruce, Barbara offers fascinating glimpses into life beside one of sports' greatest champions. She speaks of their mutual commitment to family, with Jack vowing never to be away for more than two weeks at a time so their five children would never say, "I wish I knew my dad." She recalls Jack's extraordinary awareness of her presence, sharing the astounding moment when he noticed her missing from one specific hole among 40,000 spectators at the US Open. These stories reveal the deep connection that has sustained their partnership through decades of triumph and challenge.

Most moving is Barbara's account of their daughter Nan's health crisis. Sitting beside an oxygen tent, praying for their child's recovery, Jack and Barbara made a promise back then: "If we're ever able to help someone, we want it to be children." That commitment has since transformed countless young lives across 120 countries.

As Dublin prepares to celebrate the 50th playing of the Memorial Tournament with Barbara as the 2025 Honoree, we invite you to listen to this remarkable conversation that spans golf history, family values, philanthropy, and the growth of Dublin to the community we love and cherish today!

'In a word, our real estate market is wonky' says Brent Swander, CEO of Columbus Realtors and proud Dublin resident. From eye-popping statistics to practical advice for buyers and sellers, this episode delivers valuable insights for anyone interested in our community's real estate landscape.

Swander reveals surprising data about Dublin's position in the regional market, including our average home price of $642,000, our remarkable 34.8% condo market share (third highest in the region), and what makes our community so desirable. "I came to Dublin kicking and screaming," Swander confesses, "but now to get me out of Dublin, I will go kicking and screaming." His personal transformation mirrors what many residents discover – once you experience Dublin's exceptional quality of life, it's hard to imagine living anywhere else.

The conversation with Lindsay and Bruce also takes a fascinating turn as Swander shares stories from his previous career in politics, working in the President George W. Bush White House and on presidential campaigns – including a memorable encounter involving frosted tips, braces and a presidential quip. 

Whether you're considering buying or selling property, curious about Dublin's economic health, or simply want to understand the forces shaping our community, this episode delivers valuable insights wrapped in engaging conversation. Listen now and discover why Dublin's real estate market defies conventional wisdom while consistently delivering exceptional value.

Ronnie Platt's journey to becoming the lead vocalist of rock legends Kansas defies conventional music industry narratives. At 52, after decades behind the wheel of a Chicago delivery truck, he stepped into the spotlight previously occupied by one of rock's most distinctive voices, Steve Walsh. "Better late than never," he quips with characteristic humility that runs throughout his conversation with Lindsay and Bruce.

Now celebrating eleven years with the band, Platt opens up about the influences that shaped his powerful vocal style—Steve Walsh, Steve Perry, and Lou Gramm—analyzing their techniques and selecting vocalists whose approach matched his physical capabilities.

The conversation takes a more serious turn as Platt details his recent battle with thyroid cancer, from discovery to diagnosis to his triumphant return to the stage just one month after surgery. His concern extended beyond his health to the entire Kansas organization—band members, crew, venues, and support staff who would be affected by his absence from touring. This profound sense of responsibility, combined with extraordinary medical care, fueled his remarkably swift recovery.

It's only April but it's time to get excited about July 4th!  Kansas and 38 Special will headline this year's Independence Day celebration, culminating in the city's spectacular fireworks display. Community Events Director Alison LeRoy also joins to share details about the full day of festivities and the upcoming table reservation process.   It promises to be another rockin' unforgettable Fourth of July in the city we love!

Ever wondered what actually happens to your recycling after it leaves your curb? Amanda Pratt, Senior VP of Communications at Rumpke, pulls back the curtain on recycling operations at North America's largest and most technologically advanced recycling facility, which is right here in Columbus, Ohio.

The Rumpke Recycling and Resource Center, a $106 million investment that opened in 2024, processes an astonishing 60-70 tons of recyclables per hour using AI-powered optical scanners, advanced sorting technology, and a system designed to maximize recovery. The facility has expanded what Central Ohioans can recycle and now accepts those frustrating plastic clamshell containers alongside yogurt tubs, plastic cups and even greasy pizza boxes.

What makes this story particularly powerful is the economic impact. Approximately 80% of materials collected stay right here in Ohio, supplying manufacturers that create new products and jobs.

Beyond the industrial operation, Rumpke has partnered with COSI and OSU to create an immersive education center where visitors experience the complete lifecycle of recyclables—from consumer purchasing decisions to final products. School groups and community members can tour the facility and see firsthand how their recycling efforts make a difference.

Lindsay and Bruce also talk with Amanda about common recycling myths and answer resident questions about everything from aluminum foil to Amazon packaging. With Dublin's waste diversion rate nearly 20% higher than the national average, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint not just for April's Earth Month but any month!

The artistic heart of Dublin beats strongly through two remarkable conversations showcasing how creativity connects communities both locally and globally.

Dr. David Guion, retiring Executive Director of the Dublin Arts Council, reflects on transforming Dublin into a community with more than 70 public art installations ranging from large-scale commissioned works to interactive river boxes – artist-created vessels that combine geocaching with artistic treasure hunts. With a philosophy that "we do things with the community instead of for the community," David has fostered participatory experiences that encourage public dialogue with artists.

"Public art is controversial," he acknowledges candidly. "It comes down to whether someone likes or doesn't like something." This honesty about art's divisive nature hasn't deterred the Council but rather inspired them to create programming that fosters curiosity and creative exploration. From cultivating international relationships in Japan to developing Dublin's first Public Art Master Plan, David leaves a legacy of artistic growth that spans generations.

Writer Erin Boggs introduces us to "A Journey of Iceland - from Darkness to Light," an immersive exhibition at the Dublin Arts Council through April 25th. This multisensory experience combines Boggs' poetry with artwork by Icelandic artist Einar Orn and music by Kaktus Einarsson. The exhibition has gained impressive recognition, along with Erin's book appearing in Oscar nominee gift bags! Dublin residents can purchase signed copies at the Arts Council, complete with QR codes to download the music for a full immersive experience at home.

Whether exploring Dublin's river boxes with your family or experiencing Iceland through poetry and art, these creative endeavors remind us how art transcends cultural and geographic boundaries. Discover these artistic treasures and more by visiting in person or DublinArts.org today!

Did you know Dubin is the only city in the U.S. — the only one — with a AAA credit rating from four different evaluating services?  Hopefully, this impressive accolade gives you, our residents, peace of mind our City leaders are not only thoughtful managers of your tax dollars but excellent practitioners in putting those dollars to laser-efficient use.   Earlier this month, our leaders gathered at Bridge Park for a 'State of the City' presentation in front of hundreds of people.   City Manager Megan O'Callaghan led the discussion and covered a dynamic range of topics: $325 million in capital improvements in the next five years, expanding fiber internet to your home, refreshes to the Dublin Community Recreation Center and Metro Center, plus creating a top-tier athletic complex.  As Megan put it, 'Our success is built on the strength of our relationships with residents, regional leaders and entrepreneurs.  Together we are not just keeping pace with change.  We are shaping it.'     This episode is the audio version of that presentation.  Listen and get genuinely excited because the state of our city is strong!

The theme for Dublin's 2025 State of the City address is Leading the Way.   This episode is a dynamic preview of the SOTC (a little inside scoop for you!) from our elected officials who truly sweat the details — Dublin City Council members.   Lindsay and Bruce gathered all seven members for a dedicated conversation around these three questions:  How does Dublin lead the way?   What are you truly excited about?  Describe the state of our City?   

Council members' answers walk you through our history, how we became a national model of excellence and how we plan to keep it that way.   Council members also mirror the excitement that comes from you - our residents.  From a refreshed Metro Center, expansions at Bridge Park, Sports Ohio and our fiber to every home project, we continue to lead nationally through innovation, research, resident feedback and lasered execution.  Simply put, get excited about the State of the City because it's strong, it's here and it's real.    And please join us in person March 13th for the 2025 State of the City address and community reception from 6-8:30 p.m. at The Exchange at Bridge Park.   

Yes, we have a 100-foot bridge on order.  No, it's not coming from Amazon.   But, if you're curious about more than a dozen engineering projects happening all over Dublin from bridges to fiber optics to roundabouts, this is your episode!  Director of Engineering, Paul Hammersmith, is back with Lindsay and Bruce to discuss projects in and around your neighborhood:   U.S. 33 and Post Road, Emerald Parkway near the new Mount Carmel Hospital, a new roundabout, and a big update on the altafiber, fiber optics project, just to name a few.   Plus, we always have water and road maintenance projects that constantly improve and beautify our neighborhoods to tell you about.  Speaking of which, did you know our great City spends roughly the same on road maintenance as Dayton, which has nearly triple our population.  As Paul explains, it's a testament to not just building the amenities that are the envy of cities nationally but having the foresight, planning prowess and tax base to maintain those class-leading amenities.   And here's a bonus.  Paul's guest appearance means projects are ramping up again because the weather will get warmer and hopefully soon!   

They say luck is really when opportunity meets timing. No joke, on THE day we were scheduled to record this episode with the Abbey Theater's Joe Bishara, the Broadway World Awards were announced. For the third straight year, the Abbey was named 'Best Local Theater'. Joe, himself was also recognized as 'Best Director' for the fourth year in a row!  So, there's a lot to celebrate in this episode, but, as Joe, Lindsay and Bruce discuss, the success of the Abbey is about the success of the whole. It's everyone - from those working behind the scenes to the screenwriters, the performing artists and everyone in between. The 2025 season is maybe the Abbey's most ambitious yet, featuring classics like 'School House Rock Live' and 'Alice in Wonderland, Jr.' to bold productions on issues like evolution, creationism, sexuality and politics. There's even a two-man musical spoof starring Joe himself.  It's a season at the Abbey where kids, teens and adults can enjoy multiple productions starting right now. So, come see what the Broadway World Awards know and keep telling the world — that one of the best local theaters in the country is right here in Dublin! 

Dublin is known for our burgeoning restaurant scene, and there’s one local spot our guests can’t get enough of. Lindsay and Bruce have asked countless guests, 'What's your favorite lunch spot?' and the overwhelming top answer is, ’Dublin Village Tavern!’  So, we had a thought: let's invite DVT General Manager Geri Ziemba on the show! It turns out, 2025 marks DVT's 25th year in business, so Geri has plenty of stories and perspectives to share, plus her tips for cooking the best burgers.  Plus, we round out the foodie conversation with City Scene Lead Editor, Rachel Karas. Our dining scene is just exploding with new restaurants, markets and bars. If Happy Hour isn't your thing, no worries, because non-alcoholic 'mocktails' are the thing right now, and DVT has jumped on the bandwagon! You'll come away from this episode hungry and with a list of new places to try.  

Have you noticed big, new monitors all around the Dublin Community Recreation Center? New cardio machines and free weights? And the super easy way to scan into the Rec Center with the app? There's so much going on, and there's about to be a lot more! A big refresh is beginning that'll bring even more space and programming to your wellness journey. Since so many people look to reset in a new year, we thought it would be the perfect time to talk about all the exciting things at the DCRC with our Recreation Administrator of Corporate and Community Wellness, Mollie Steiner. Fortunately for us, Mollie isn't big on the word “resolution,” so Lindsay and Bruce ask her for motivational ways to work toward a wellness goal that involves having fun, finding joy and practicing self-care. She also shares her very best advice for staying motivated throughout the year and not just here at the beginning. Plus, the wellness trends to look for in 2025! This episode brings with it a very personal story, too; Mollie shares some incredible highs and truly scary lows as a parent. Her daughter, Abby, is a world-class athlete and former college All-American who tried out for the U.S. Olympic team this past summer. Her other daughter got a cancer diagnosis while she was in high school at Dublin Coffman. Mollie’s personal and professional journey has been one of commitment to wellness, helping others and living in gratitude. Lessons that'll hopefully always be trendy and never go out of style.

Thanks to our loyal listeners, the Link Ahead podcast nearly doubled its download numbers for 2024! It's a credit to our residents who want to stay informed on what's happening, engage in the City processes and stay motivated in keeping Dublin a global city of choice. This episode is special, as we sliced and diced clips from all 23 episodes. We got to meet a wide range of people: City leaders, Jack Nicklaus II, a world-renowned musician, one of the best college basketball coaches in the country, a tribal Indian Chief and national experts who are helping Dublin growth the right way. Lindsay and Bruce also talked in depth about topics like Envision Dublin, expanded COTA services, future plans for Metro Center and updates coming to the Dublin Community Recreation Center. In short, this podcast series is about the people, the vision, the purpose and the passion that continue to make Dublin truly world-class. Link Ahead brought home some three awards from national and regional competitions, too! Enjoy this look back at an incredible Season 3, and know we already have big plans for Season 4 in 2025!

The Dublin Food Pantry served more than 10,000 people last year — our friends and neighbors in our beloved City.  Yes, we're known as a thought-leading, innovation hub nationally with a thriving economy and class leading municipal services but it doesn't mean we're immune to societal challenges.   One of them is hunger.   Dublin reflects the broader data across Ohio in that 1 in 5 young people are food insecure.   Senior citizens in our area face challenges as well as increased living expenses zap more from households on fixed incomes.   That means our seniors are going hungry.  Fortunately, we have a dynamic and passionate Dublin resident leading the charge at the Food Pantry in newly hired Executive Director, Julie Erwin-Rinaldi.   As you'll hear in the conversation with Bruce and Lindsay, Julie comes to this work with a servants' heart as she spent decades working in non-profit, mental health and public sector behavioral health.    Personally, Julie has called Dublin home for nearly 30 years and still volunteers here for numerous organizations.   Your time, treasure and talent are needed at the Food Pantry too as the outlook for 2025 shows food insecurity only going up.  Listen and find out how you can help our friends and neighbors in Dublin, not just during the holidays but on any day.

“I'm a diplomat more than an activist, and my career journey has been one of understanding.”  That's how Wyandotte Nation Chief Billy Friend describes his role as a leader in service to his tribal community. Chief Friend joins Lindsay and Bruce, in part, to talk about November as National Native American Heritage month. But this conversation goes much deeper as the Wyandotte's roots are embedded here in Ohio and across the Midwest. The Wyandotte were the last tribe to leave Ohio in 1843. They helped settle great cities like Detroit and Kansas City, Kansas. These days, Chief Friend visits Ohio often, and he calls a nearby Ohio city one of the most interesting places he's ever been. He's also brought young Wyandotte from Oklahoma to Dublin to visit tribal landmarks here including the Leatherlips Monument. (Yes, the Wyandotte leader called Central Ohio home in the 19th century) You'll also want to listen for several sage pieces of advice from Chief Friend, as it's obvious he's a servant leader, passionate historian and tremendous storyteller. Chief Friend is the first tribal chief to join Link Ahead, and we're so honored he joined us!

Isn't it only appropriate in the month of November, when we celebrate so much with food, that we get new items added to the list of recyclables that involve food. Those clamshell containers for fruit and eggs are good to go now!   Toss them in your recycle bin.  Same story with pizza boxes.  No need to separate the greasy box bottoms anymore from the tops. Joining Bruce and Lindsay to also talk about the do's and don'ts of recycling is Andrew Booker from SWACO.   Did you know when you recycle an aluminum can here in Central Ohio, it can be back on a store shelf full of your favorite beverage in less than 60 days?  That's great, but we also have some serious opportunities to improve: about 75% of the materials in the landfill could be diverted, recycled or reused. Andrew gives all of us ideas on how to do just that. Plus, we have to talk about food waste.  More than one million pounds of food waste comes to the Franklin County landfill every day. Dublin is part of SWACO's Central Ohio Food Waste Initiative, so Andrew provides updates to that plan to make it easier than ever to compost those food scraps!

The goal to become the most connected community in the U.S. has reached another milestone! Our 'Fiber to Every Home' initiative is underway, and some residents are already connected to this groundbreaking system. Construction began in April of this year and it's really ramping up now. In fact, please be on the look-out for mailers and doorhangers from altafiber because those are definite indicators construction is coming to your neighborhood. Joining Lindsay and Bruce to talk about all the details is Senior Director of Corporate Strategy and Development at altafiber, David Kramer. They discuss the construction timeline, the benefits of fiber optics, the powerful capabilities of this system and costs of various packages for our residents and businesses. As David says, 'nothing beats light over fiber' as next generation broadband with multi-gig internet service is here!

Did you know there's a sunken steamship in Lake Erie on the National Registry of Historic Places?  Or, that Ohio is near the top of the list for the most historic sites among ALL 50 states?  City Council Member Amy Kramb brings her encyclopedic wealth of historic knowledge of Dublin, of Ohio and of architecture to Link Ahead, and we promise you'll be smarter because of it!   She's a third generation Dublin resident who began her path to City leadership by volunteering.  That led to years of services on Dublin Boards and Commissions and now, City Council. Her career as an attorney and professional architectural historian truly rounds out her passions for public service with historic reverence, good governance and public input. Plus, you have to stay tuned for rapid fire questions from Lindsay and Bruce as Amy tells us which historians she'd invite to dinner and what Ohio treat she'd serve them!    

Did you know now is a good time to head to your favorite garden center, as prices are lower? Even though fall is here, you have all kinds of options for a gorgeous autumn garden, and we have a couple of true experts to help you set it up! Tim Fleischer and Matt Guthrie are horticulturists for the City, and you've seen and likely admired their work all over town — from our parks to roundabouts. Tim and Matt also share insider secrets with Lindsay and Bruce, like what tools they can't live without and the must-haves to get through hot summer days and cold winter ones, too. Having trouble with deer munching on your plants? The guys share their favorite pungent perennials to keep the animals away. This episode is also another first for Link Ahead as we actually discuss another podcast series. That's because Tim and Matt have launched their own horticulture podcast, and the title is just about perfect.

A phone call comes into Dublin City Hall many months ago from a local family looking to sell their property and business.  That's how this whole thing began as you'll get the inside scoop from a family member herself.  Fast forward to today, the deal is poised to transform the West Innovation District into a transportation, sports and recreation mecca! Dublin is purchasing nearly 250 acres that include SportsOhio, Shepherd Excavating and Carter Farms. Among many options from this strategic investment, think of the symbiotic combination of SportsOhio with Darree Fields to create a dynamic sports complex to attract teams, fans and events from all over the country. Additionally, when combined with land the City previously acquired across the railroad tracks to the east, the Carter Farms parcels provide us with a prime location for a future passenger rail station, which is being studied right now. City Manager Megan O'Callaghan and Samantha Shepherd of SportsOhio join Lindsay and Bruce to talk about this historic investment, plus behind-the-scenes details on how it all got started with one phone call.

We hope you have heard of Envision Dublin, but if not, don’t worry — this episode is the perfect crash course! Envision Dublin is our city’s comprehensive master plan, a strategic roadmap guiding everything from large-scale developments and transportation initiatives to everyday details like sidewalk design and enhancing safety for our most vulnerable residents.

At the heart of these efforts is Jenny Rauch, our dedicated Director of Community Planning and Development. With two decades of service to Dublin, Jenny is deeply committed to balancing community input with expert recommendations. Whether she’s engaging with residents at public meetings or integrating feedback from City Council and consultants, Jenny’s role requires both meticulous planning and attentive listening.

Jenny often jokes about her “degree in coloring,” but it’s her keen eye for detail and passion for thoughtful urban design that truly shine. She’ll also share her humorous struggle to “turn off” her planning mindset when she visits other cities.

Whether you’re new to the conversation or ready to dive deeper, your voice matters in shaping Dublin’s future!