All Sides with Ann Fisher

What's next for intoxicating hemp products and THC drinks in Ohio?A new law took effect Friday that makes significant changes to marijuana use and bans low-level THC hemp products.The question has been raised after a last-minute ballot measure attempt failed.An Ohio House committee advances legislation to restore the state's 24-hour waiting period before an abortion even though the restriction is currently blocked in court.Ohio has become the 19thstate to ban ranked choice voting.We're digging into all of these topics on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Sarah Donaldson, reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauAndrew Tobias, reporter, Signal OhioMorgan Trau, reporter, News 5 ClevelandIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Spring has officially sprung. With a new season, the time is perfect to turn over a new leaf, or a new page, and begin a new book.Join All Sides Weekend host Christopher Purdy and his guests for some worthwhile suggestions on what you should read next.Host:Christopher Purdy, Classical 101 Morning HostGuests:Kassie Rose, WOSU Book CriticKris Hickey, youth services coordinator, Columbus Metropolitan LibraryMichelle Herman, professor emerita creative writing, Ohio State University

Providence House, a nonprofit organization in Cleveland, calls itself a crisis nursery, a facility that provides emergency shelter care to children whose parents/guardians cannot care for them due to crises.It's the first of its kind in Ohio and one of the nation's longest-operating crisis nurseries.By day, Charles Crabtree is a maintenance technician at Capital University, but within him beats the heart of an artist whose work is on display.4 Paws for Ability is a facility in Xenia that trains service dogs for veterans, children and those with disabilities. Each dog is specifically trained to each person's needs. The organization matches 12 service dogs annually.We'll get to know all of these people on this edition of Fascinating Ohio.Guests:Natalie Leek, president/CEO, Providence HouseCharles Crabtree, artist/maintenance technician, Capital UniversityJennifer Lutes, executive director, 4 Paws for AbilityIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

A top intelligence official has resigned and on the way out said “Iran posed no imminent threat,” to the U.S.President Donald Trump ran for reelection on the promise of lower prices and no wars.Meanwhile, Trump and his administration are doing all they can to not call it a war.Prices have not come down and could be increasing as U.S. strikes on Iran continue.Also, could a blue wave happen in this year's midterm elections?We're talking national politics with Ken Rudin, host of the "Political Junkie" podcast.Guest:Ken Rudin, political journalist/host of the "Political Junkie" podcastIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: Julia Demaree Nikhinson / AP)

Former Ohio State President Ted Carter became the eighth president or chancellor in the 18-member Big Ten conference to exit in a little over a year.Whether it's business, politics or education, we've been seeing a crisis of leadership.On this hour of All Sides, we're discussing why there is so much bad leadership within organizations and why unqualified people rise to the top.Guests:A.R. “Elango” Elangovan, associate vice-president, executive lead of OGE and UVic's Global Engagement Strategy, University of Victoria, British ColumbiaGalen Emanuele, team, culture and leadership expert/founder, Shift YesIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Here's one thing Americans agree on: drug prices are out of control.In fact, it's the fastest growing area of healthcare spending. Consider this: half the people in the U.S. take at least one prescription drug.Why isn't there an easier fix? President Trump has launched TrumpRx, and touted its benefits on his recent trip to Ohio.He's tapped into an issue with broad bipartisan support, but does his namesake solution work as advised?We're talking about prescription drugs and sticker shock and how Ohio is trying to provide relief.Why can other countries deliver drugs for lower prices?Guests:Juliette Cubanski, deputy director, program on Medicare policy, KFFBen Link, vice president of pharmacy, 3 Axis AdvisorsTracy Ramey, chapter lead, OhioInsulin4allIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Few have done more to popularize and bring science to a level for everyone to understand than Neil deGrasse Tyson.He will host the “Cosmic Perspective” here in Columbus next week.But what does he have to say about the future of space exploration and about scientists here on Earth?We're talking with him today on Tech Tuesday.When it's a touch-screen world, everyone clicking through daily chats and tasks, what about those who can't see the screen? How do they navigate digital life?Amazon unveils a new personality for Alexa: Meet her adults-only "Sassy" side.Guests:Neil deGrasse Tyson, astrophysicist, teacher, authorJanae Miller, founder/managing principal, Sight UnseenRussell Holly, director of commerce content, CNETIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Jason Decrow/AP/Invision)

Spring is the season of renewal. That renewal can include cleaning and decluttering.While not everyone with an overabundance of stuff is a hoarder, it can take a physical and mental toll on our lives and loved ones.On this hour of All Sides, we're talking about how to declutter and organize.Guests:Mary E. Dozier, associate professor, department of psychology, Mississippi State UniversityDana K. White, decluttering expertIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Ohio State University has a new president, just a few days after the previous one resigned.President Trump visited Ohio to talk about drug prices and the war with Iran.Senator Jon Husted testified in the FirstEnergy trial, where he said he didn't recall details from a key meeting.Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has delivered his final State of the State address.We're talking about all of these major topics during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Mark Ferenchik, news director, WOSU Public MediaKaren Kasler, bureau chief, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauShane Stegmiller, reporter, Hannah News ServiceSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Middletown, Ohio is the home of the oldest documented continuously operated stained-glass studio in the United States.Their glass is acquired from all over the world and design techniques date back to the original owners.We'll learn more about the history of the BeauVerre Riordan Studio.The Westcott House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1906. After interior alterations changed the floor plan in the 1940s the building fell into disrepair and was considered a lost Wright artifact. But in the early 2000s, the house was rescued. And it has now been open for tours and inspiration for more than 20 years.Loom Collective just opened in Clintonville. It's a community center focused on providing connection and touch to those deprived of it.Guests:Linda Moorman, owner, BeauVerre Riordan StudiosMarta Wojcik, executive director/curator of Wescott HouseChristie Holtzclaw, founder, Loom CollectiveIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

The Ohio State University has recently released its annual research numbers and it's looking good for all the Buckeyes out there.Ranking 12th in the nation, beating colleges like Yale and Harvard, Ohio State has proven its prowess as a research institution.However, this comes after a year of rocky conditions for researchers in the United States.From funding cuts to programs like the National Science Foundation, how is the state of research in the United States, and where does the state of Ohio fit into it?Guests:John Horack, vice president of research, Ohio State UniversityIan Morgan, post doctoral fellow, National Institute of HealthAnna Darling, Ohio State graduate student/member of investNscienceIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Not long ago, gardens were designed simply to look beautiful.But today, we understand that the way we care for our land has real effects on the ecosystems around us.More and more gardeners are discovering that supporting biodiversity such as welcoming butterflies, birds, and pollinators doesn't mean giving up on beauty. In fact, it can make our gardens even more vibrant and alive.Rebecca McMackin has spent years creating stunning landscapes in some of the most challenging places imaginable like urban parks, schoolyards and even the sidewalks of New York City.On this hour of All Sides, McMackin will share how anyone who stewards a piece of land can manage it in ways that are both beautiful and environmentally meaningful.Guest:Rebecca McMackin, horticulturist/garden designerRelated Link:Adventures in Ecological Horticulture with Rebecca McMackinIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: syedaftab / Adobe Stock)

Artificial intelligence is about to be scaled up in a big way in health care. Is the medical field ready? Are we?Ohio is one of six states in a pilot program using AI to help decide whether certain medical procedures should be approved for Medicare.Across the U.S., healthcare systems are tapping into the technology by using AI to help with charting, diagnosing, surgeries, even caregiving.Proponents say AI is a necessary game changer, perhaps leading to lower costs.Others are more cautious, pointing to AI-related lawsuits and questions about how it will be regulated.Today on All Sides, an AI primer in medicine: from application to implementation to regulation.Guests:Todd Baker, CEO, Ohio State Medical AssociationAmy Andres, senior vice president of health strategy, Ohio Hospital AssociationBill Balderaz, CEO, FuturetyIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Song About Summer / Adobe Stock)

Technology plays a vital role in every facet of life and technology, or a lack thereof, is playing a role in the war between the U.S. and Iran.We will be discussing data centers in the region, supply chain issues, semiconductors, delivery services and more.AI has taken over digital spaces, but AI is also making its way into the physical world. Path Robotics is a company based in Columbus that is working to build large-scale welded parts using physical AI.Apple is coming out with a more affordable laptop called NEO, TCL has released a phone that features an anti-glare screen and Fortnite is being made available for downloading on mobile devices.We're digging into all of these topics on this week's Tech Tuesday.Guests:Andy Lonsberry, CEO/co-founder, Path RoboticsCarla Sertin, head of editorial content, WIRED Middle EastRussell Holly, director of commerce content, CNETIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format. (photo: Vahid Salemi / AP)

Food deserts are found in low-income and geographically-isolated areas with limited access to affordable, nutritious and fresh food.Across the U. S., they're increasing. Here in Ohio, the largest number of food deserts can be found in rural areas.On this hour of All Sides, we're talking about the reasons behind the increase and what's being done to fortify food deserts.Guests:Marty Schladen, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalOhio Rep. Terrence Upchurch (recorded)Emily Rials, co-director, Columbus Food RescueMike Hochron, senior vice president of communications and public affairs, Mid-Ohio Food CollectiveIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: Joel Muniz / Unsplash)

Specific words, phrases, and jargon have become part of our vocabulary for a variety of reasons.They can reflect the culture at large, or they're specific to a certain business, group or place.Terminology we associate with corporate America, such as "bandwidth," "leaning in," and "circling back," have, for better or worse, entered the lexicon. However, when has this corporate speak worn out its welcome?Mignon Fogarty, our guide to better grammar, joins us this hour to talk about buzzwords and their place in our culture.Guest:Mignon Fogarty, host, "Grammar Girl" podcast/authorIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.

Ohio State University President Ted Carter has resigned.This comes after the OSU Board of Trustees held a rare meeting on Saturday to discuss personnel matters. Carter was the university president beginning in January of 2024. He was hired after former President Kristina Johnson resigned after two years in the position.A statement from the university said Carter recently disclosed to trustees that he had an inappropriate relationship with someone seeking public resources to support her personal business, and offered to resign.Then, Gov. Mike DeWine prepares to give his final State of the State this week.Will lawmakers embrace his priority projects? They haven't always in the past.President Trump is again pushing to restrict absentee voting; meanwhile, Ohio's Secretary of State complies with an administration demand to turn over our voter registration data over the objection of Democrats.Teachers in Ohio aren't happy. A national survey found their morale lags behind that of educators in other states. Almost half say they expect to leave the classroom in the next 10 years.The war in Iran continues. Ohio lawmakers want the two pension systems to divest their Iranian holdings. How is Vice President JD Vance, previously an anti-interventionist, selling the U.S. attack?Guests:Marty Schladen, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalLaura Hancock, politics and policy reporter, Cleveland.comNoah Blundo, executive editor, Hannah News ServiceIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

In 1977, Robin Bozian was the only woman attorney practicing law in Scioto County.Since then, she has spent 45 years as an attorney for Legal Aid, helping survivors of domestic violence and other marginalized groups.In retirement, she continues to take pro bono cases and we'll learn more about her dedication to service.And, Stereo Lab, a vintage shop for cassettes, radios, and audio gear, has been repairing antiques for more than 50 years. We'll learn more from the owner about their rich history.In October, the Royal Flamingo Coffee House was voted the second-best independent coffee shop in the country in USA Today's 10 best list. The cafe offers a wide range of notes and flavors, all roasted by the owners themselves.Guests:Robin Bozian, former Legal Aid attorney/community volunteerScott Freshour, Stereo Lab ownerBryan Brzozowski, owner, Royal Flamingo CoffeeIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

GLP-1 medications are evolving quickly.There's no longer just Ozempic and Mounjaro. There are more than five types of the drugs across at least one dozen different brands.Plus, a new pill version is hitting the market, which is easier to administer than the shots.As the drugs get cheaper and easier to take, people are asking questions about potential side effects, long-term safety and regulation.Some experts are also asking how appetite-suppressing medications are changing our relationship with food — and what that means for eating disorders and nutritionWe will unpack the updates, benefits and risks from a medical, nutrition and psychological perspective.Guests:Ken Alltucker, consumer health reporter, USA TodayDr. Aradhna Saraswat, physician/assistant professor, Center for Women's Health, Wexner Medical CenterZoe Ross-Nash, PsyD, licensed clinical psychologist/certified eating disorder specialist/founder, Equilibrium Health AdvantageIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: David J. Phillip / AP)

The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics have just wrapped up, and they were exciting as always.Even more exciting was how much athletes from the Buckeye State showed up during the games.Ohio athletes dominated events like women's and men's hockey.Ohio also had athletes in sports like skiing and snowboarding.Who were the other big winners at the games, and how did Italy compare to the likes of Paris and Tokyo?Looking forward, is Los Angeles ready to bear the torch for the 2028 Olympic Games and what role will Columbus have in the summer games?Guest:Amy Bass, professor of sports studies at Manhattanville UniversityIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: Hassan Ammar / AP)

Legacy media has been undergoing rapid changes over the last 40 years.Layoffs at The Washington Post, the fading luster of CBS, the Tiffany network and the last call for mass market paperbacks are the latest disruptions.A Cleveland.com editorial saying the paper will use more AI in its story writing is causing a lot of buzz.On this hour of All Sides, we're talking about what these changes will mean for our consumption of media.Guests:Dan Kennedy, professor of journalism, Northeastern UniversityDavid Bianculli, TV critic, Fresh Air w/ Terry Gross/professor, Rowan UniversityElizabeth Harris, reporter, The New York TimesIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: lensw0rld / Adobe Stock)

Ohio recently received large amounts of snow.When warmer weather came in, the snow melted, leading to dense fog and something unseen: pollution. This invisible effect of the melting snow has led to concern about local air quality.In 2024, the U.S. surgeon general called for adding warning labels to social media platforms explaining that they may be harmful to younger users.Social media companies are now being sued for the harm they have caused. We will get an update on the META trial.There is a shortage of memory chips used in consumer devices such as cellphones. Because of this shortage, cell phone prices are skyrocketing, and less people are buying them.Guests:Alec Kownacki, meteorologist, Michigan Department of EnvironmentKelly Stonelake, former Meta employee-turned whistleblower/tech accountability advocateRussell Holly, director of commerce content, CNETIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

As Ohio billionaire Les Wexner faces intense scrutiny over his ties to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, we look at the billion-dollar retail empire Wexner built in central Ohio, which gave rise to the fast-fashion trend, the mall as mecca, “sex sells” marketing campaigns, and high-end fashion shows.Social media posts from millennial women blame Victoria's Secret and Pink for ushering in an era of hyper-sexualization and objectification, turning skinny models into iconic superstar “angels” and sending young girls to malls, clamoring for flashy, suggestive attire that manifested in long-term body issues and eating disorders for some.Along the way, Wexner raked in billions, gave away millions upon millions, and transformed his hometown and alma mater in the process.Guests:Tim Feran, freelance journalistChantal Fernandez, journalist/co-author, Selling Sexy: Victoria's Secret and the Unraveling of an American IconRachel Rodgers, associate professor of applied psychology, Northeastern UniversityIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Evan Agostini Invision / AP)

Do you remember when Ohio was a blue state?Democratic strategist Dale Butland does. He spent 20 years working side by side with John Glenn and has a new book about a different era in Ohio politics.Butland has more than 45 years of experience in government and political communication. He spent about half his career working for the late U.S. Senator and astronaut John Glenn.The book is called When Ohio Was Blue.We'll hear about Butland's career, his time with John Glenn and his take on Ohio's current political landscape.Guest:Dale Butland, Democratic strategist/author, When Ohio Was BlueIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Ranking candidates 1-2-3 instead of picking just one is known as ranked choice voting.Some local municipalities in Ohio are considering using the voting method, although none currently do.A bill to ban ranked choice voting pre-emptively just passed the Ohio House and heads to the Ohio Senate.Universities not complying with an anti-DEI law could lose funding under a Republican bill meant to ensure compliance. The same loss of funding threat goes for school districts who sue the state.We compost food, so why not human bodies? A new bill would allow that option.In lighter news, Gov. Mike DeWine was asked his thoughts on the new Ohio-based reality show, “Love is Blind.”We're talking about all of these topics on this week's reporter roundtable.Guests:Andrew Tobias, state government and politics reporter, Signal OhioHaley BeMiller, political reporter, Columbus DispatchMegan Henry, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Joe Shlabotnik / Flickr)

Spring is just a few weeks away and the Columbus arts scene is blossoming with activity.On this edition of All Sides Weekend, host Christopher Purdy is getting the inside scoop from several members of the Columbus arts community on what audiences can look forward to.Host:Christopher Purdy, Classical 101 morning hostGuests:David Baghat, director, Butterfly Guild for Nationwide Children's HospitalChad Whittington, president/CEO, CAPALeda Hoffman, producing artistic director, Contemporary Theatre of OhioIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

On May 15, Columbus resident Robert Alt summited the tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest.Since then, his journey has continued. Now he has summited six of the seven highest peaks in the world.A local author is fusing history lessons with ghost stories to create a fun and interesting way to learn Ohio history.Having already written two books in his “Ohio Kids” series and coming out with a third, Logan Lyon is continuing his family tradition of finding new ways of teaching.Middletown, Ohio is the home of the oldest documented continuously operated stained-glass studio in the United States.Their glass is acquired from all over the world and design techniques date back to the original owners.We'll learn more about the history of the BeauVerre Riordan Studio.Guests:Robert Alt, mountaineer/founder, Profound Climbing/president/CEO, The Buckeye InstituteLogan Lyons, author, The Chillicothe GhostsLinda Moorman, owner, BeauVerre Riordan StudiosIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Columbus City Schools is addressing a budget shortfall by cutting more than 60 administrative positions, closing four buildings and making some busing changes.Despite these moves, projections still show the district will be out of money by 2030.School leaders say rising costs, property tax changes and reduced state funding have backed them into a corner.We'll discuss what's being done to get out of that corner with Columbus City Schools' Superintendent Angela Chapman.Guest:Columbus City Schools' Superintendent/CEO Angela ChapmanIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Having spent more than 10 years as the president and CEO of the Greater Columbus Arts Council, Tom Katzenmeyer stepped down from his post in 2025.Late last year, it was announced that the GCAC board of trustees selected Mitch Menchaca as its new president and CEO.During the next hour, we'll meet the arts advocate and fundraiser, who comes to Columbus from Phoenix, where he was the city's arts and culture director.The GCAC board said they picked Menchaca because of his experience in securing funding and running grant programs.We'll learn about his vision for the future of the Columbus arts scene.Guest:Mitch Menchaca, president/CEO, Greater Columbus Arts CouncilIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

President Donald Trump's primetime address to Congress on Tuesday night set the stage for the rest of this midterm election year.Trump touted his administration's efforts to lower costs for everyday Americans and reflected on his first-year accomplishments.He also addressed recent news.The U.S. Supreme Court said the president does not have the ability to unilaterally impose tariffs.ICE activity in Minnesota has slowed down in an effort to de-escalate tensions with local authorities.The issues discussed impact every Ohioan and inform Ohio politics as well.We will have reaction to President Trump's "State of the Union" speech from two political scientists on this hour of All Sides.Guests:Paul Beck, political science professor emeritus, Ohio State UniversityBrianna Mack, associate professor, politics and government, Ohio Wesleyan UniversityIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Matt Rourke / AP)

AI will never be outrightly rude or racist, but that doesn't mean it doesn't formulate racist opinions based on harmful stereotypes.This covert racism has major implications from hiring to even legal decisions.We will be talking about covert racism in AI.Streaming services have become one of the most dominant and popular forms of media consumption since Netflix and Spotify revolutionized how we watch and listen to our favorites.These services are not without downsides, though, and as they grow, how does their environmental impact grow with them?One of the most popular online games, Roblox, has been in hot water because of its seeming neglect of children's safety.Guests:Soroush Vosoughi, associate professor, computer science, Dartmouth CollegeKyle Devine, professor of environmental studies and sciences, University of WinnipegRussell Holly, director of commerce content, CNETIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Sutthiphong / AdobeStock)

Former Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Maureen O'Connor joins All Sides to talk about judicial independence in a time of partisanship, an effort to nationalize elections, and a movement by chief justices around the U.S. to push back on what some legal scholars view as executive overreach into the judiciary. Is it?She served as chief justice of the Ohio Supreme Court from 2011 through 2022.O'Connor's insights will provide us an in-depth look at the issue on this hour of All Sides.Guest:Maureen O'Connor, former Ohio Supreme Court chief justiceIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Julie Carr Smyth / AP)

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which began on the night of Feb. 17 and ends on March 19.Muslims across the United States will be celebrating and observing the month through fasting, night prayers and gatherings with their local community.The Columbus Muslim community has their own traditions and practices. There are more than 20 mosques in the city, and each one hosts their own nightly prayers and community gatherings during the month.Ramadan is not just about fasting. The month signifies a time to reflect, give charity and increase acts of service.We'll be speaking with three local Muslim community leaders about what it's like to celebrate Ramadan in Columbus.Guests:State Rep. Munira AbdullahiMohammed Azhar Masood, executive director, Noor Islamic Cultural CenterNicol Ghazi, executive director, Muslim Family Services of OhioIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: Mahesh Kumar A. / AP)

Ohio State University is fielding hundreds of calls to remove Les Wexner's name from campus buildings, amid growing anger over his ties to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.A new term, WEXIT, has been coined by groups pushing for removal. Meanwhile, Gov. Mike DeWine defends keeping Wexner's name.Meanwhile, Democratic members of Congress who traveled to New Albany last week to depose Wexner said they found Wexner's denial of knowing about Epstein's criminal conduct hard to believe.In other news, a judge has removed the chairman of the state's second-largest pension for violating his fiduciary duties.We'll talk about what we're learning from the First Energy trial.It's all coming up during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:George Shillcock, reporter, WOSU Public MediaJo Ingles, senior reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauLaura Bischoff, politics and state government reporter, The Columbus DispatchJake Zuckerman, reporter, Signal OhioIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

The time is always right to start a new book.On this edition of All Sides Weekend, host Christopher Purdy and his guests are offering up some suggestions on titles you might want to add to your pile of must-read books.Host:Christopher Purdy, Classical 101 Morning HostGuests:Kassie Rose, WOSU Book CriticKris Hickey, youth services coordinator, Columbus Metropolitan LibraryMichelle Herman, professor emerita creative writing, Ohio State UniversityIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(photo: CCAC North Library / flickr)

On this week's Fascinating Ohio, we're talking to a fashion influencer, a pair of restaurant owners and a museum director.

Author, journalist and Columbus native Wil Haygood takes an in-depth look at the Vietnam War from the Black American perspective.He traces the lives of Black men and women who were in Vietnam.The racial divide of the 1960s and 1970s did not stay on American shores, it followed these men and women all the way around the world.Haygood's book The War Within a War: The Black Struggle in Vietnam and at Home tells the story of race in America and abroad.And he connects the war in Vietnam to the racial tension the United States continues to grapple with today.The Pulitzer Prize-nominated author joins us for this hour of All Sides.Guest:Wil Haygood, journalist/author, The War Within a War: The Black Struggle in Vietnam and at HomeIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

What does it mean to flourish, to find meaning and joy in life and be fulfilled?How do we create meaning, especially now, in times of division and struggle for many families?On this hour of All Sides, we're talking to an author who literally wrote the book on the topic.New York Times bestselling author Daniel Coyle joins us to discuss his new book Flourish: The Art of Building Meaning, Joy and Fulfillment.Guest:Daniel Coyle, author, Flourish: The Art of Building Meaning, Joy and FulfillmentIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

What would drive someone to physically hurt someone they love?Domestic violence homicides in Ohio are way up, along with murder-suicides. Why?Those who study and work in the field note that victims and perpetrators are trending younger.And the cases aren't exclusive to intimate partner relationships, but reflect a rise in family-on-family violence.Officials in Columbus and Franklin County have new initiatives meant to address the root causes and save lives.Guests:Rena Shak, executive director, Office of Violence Prevention, City of ColumbusLisa DeGeeter, senior director for policy and prevention, Ohio Domestic Violence NetworkDiana Williams, founder and CEO, Ohio Women Against Domestic ViolenceLt. Jason Garner, domestic violence unit, Columbus Division of PoliceIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Louis-Paul Photo / Adobe Stock)

The Winter Olympics are underway in Milan, and people across the world are watching their countries' teams compete.The way that people watch the games has changed with new technology.From drones to real-time replay to AI technology, viewer experiences are being enhanced.We will talk about more Olympic news and pivot to the Paralympic games that will begin next month. Technology is at the heart of the Paralympics. We will discuss adaptive sports technology that enables athletes to compete.We'll hear about the latest in wireless earbud technology and it's expensive.Plus, can soil testing help keep your indoor plants alive longer?We're talking about all these topics on this week's Tech Tuesday.Guests:Mila Fiordalisi, journalist, WIRED Italia (pre-taped)Theresa Berner, rehabilitation clinic manager, Assistive Technology Center, Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitative SciencesRussell Holly, director of commerce content, CNETIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Luca Bruno / AP)

Thirty states, including Ohio, require high school students to complete a personal finance course to graduate.In some cases, schools are taking creative approaches with real world consequences.We'll learn about one high school using endowment money to give each student $1,000 to invest and track throughout high school.We're talking about new ways of teaching teens about money on this hour of All Sides.Guests:Joann Lublin, regular contributor/former career columnist, Wall Street JournalJason Savage, business teacher, Worthington High SchoolJohn Pelletier, director, Center for Financial Literacy, Champlain CollegeIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

At the start of the year, economist Bill LaFayette and the Columbus Metropolitan Club predict what Columbus' economic forecast may be.Will jobs grow, will housing stay affordable, and will new industries make moves in Ohio?With big changes on the national scale, such as immigration crackdowns, tariffs and more, how will central Ohio be affected?How will these changes affect the average Ohioan and the big businesses that work here?We'll find out more in Columbus' economic forecast during this hour of All Sides.Guests:Bill LaFayette, owner and economist, Regionomics, LLCBenjamin Ayers, senior economist, NationwideDoug Buchanan, editor in chief, Columbus Business FirstIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Jeffrey Epstein once lived in New Albany, forging strong personal and financial ties to Ohio billionaire Les Wexner, as well as connections to others in the state.Wexner, named in the Epstein files as a potential “co-conspirator,” is set to be deposed at his home Wednesday by members of Congress. That's in place of testifying in Washington.Meanwhile, several statewide and local politicians, both Republicans and Democrats, have received campaign contributions over the years from Wexner and his wife.Should they keep the money or return it? What's the political calculus?State lawmakers are back at work and are considering a mix of new and unfinished legislation.We're talking about all of it on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:George Shillcock, reporter, WOSU Public MediaJessie Balmert, state government and politics reporter, The Columbus DispatchMorgan Trau, Columbus bureau reporter, NEWS 5 ClevelandIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Jay LaPrete / AP)

We're talking to people who are working to prevent sex trafficking, make videos and empower students to create art in central Ohio.

Ohio State University is getting ready to open its new 26-story, nearly two million square-foot hospital tower.Meanwhile, the OSU Wexner Medical Center's namesake is being subpoenaed to Capitol Hill to testify about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. That deposition is scheduled to take place on Feb. 18.The most recent release of Epstein files by the Department of Justice shows that Les Wexner was named as a co-conspirator in 2019.Plus, there are several new programs aimed at making college more accessible and affordable, and Ohio State athletics saw some record-breaking revenue.We will talk about the latest news at Ohio State, the future of higher education and more with Ohio State University President Ted Carter during this hour of All Sides.Guest:Ted Carter, Ohio State University PresidentIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

ICE activity continues to be a part of American life. Photo documentation of ICE activity has occurred since the beginning of ICE encounters. But ICE has its own techniques it uses to track down immigrants and protesters.Consumer Reports recently released its 2026 best cars list. For the first time, every car on the list can be purchased as an electric or hybrid model. We will be talking about electric vehicles and car safety features to inform consumers' buying decisions.And then Apple has a new photo clean-up tool that's pretty easy to use. And the thermometer of the future is here, and it's pretty expensive.Guests:Lily Hay Newman, senior writer for WIREDKeith Barry, senior autos reporter for Consumer ReportsRussell Holly, director of commerce content for CNETIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Alex Brandon / AP)

COSI and the Ohio History Connection are two local nonprofits experiencing layoffs.These layoffs, combined with eroding federal funding, are contributing to an invisible job crisis in America's nonprofit sector.This hour of All Sides will address the challenges facing nonprofits and what it means for the communities they're serving.Guests:Rick Cohen, chief operating officer of the National Council of NonprofitsMichael Corey, executive director of the Human Service Chamber of Franklin CountyIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially unveiled its long anticipated list of Oscar nominations, and as always, it's already sparking plenty of conversation.While some of the heavyweight contenders felt inevitable, like Sinners and One Battle After Another, there were also a few surprises that shook up the usual predictions.Looking back now, what did the 2025 film slate really look like after a full year of releases, buzz and box-office results?Were there actors who reclaimed their old glory with career-reviving roles, and is there a new generation of box office stars?What are some of the biggest nominees, the most talked-about snubs and the performances that captured audiences and critics alike?We'll also look ahead to which films are already generating excitement and which projects should be on your radar as we head into 2026.GuestsAlissa Wilkinson, New York Times film criticScott Mantz, film critic, entertainment journalist and producerPaul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst, ComScoreIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo Credit: Jordan Strauss / Invision / AP)

Millions of dollars from recreational marijuana sales are finally flowing into communities all around Ohio.For some small towns, it's a much-needed windfall, while other communities continue to keep dispensaries out.An effort to repeal a new intoxicating hemp law clears an early hurdle, as opponents include some in the cannabis industry.On the legislative front: two lawmakers want to prevent high school athletes from receiving NIL deals.Disrupting a church service in Ohio could become a felony if two Republicans have their way.Candidates for the Ohio Supreme Court, Congress, governor and more officially file to run.We're talking about all these hot topics on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Sarah Donaldson, reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauMarty Schladen, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalLaura Hancock, politics and policy reporter, Cleveland.comIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.(Photo Credit: Jim Mone / AP)

The way music has been stored and listened to has changed so much in the past few decades. But many people keep coming back to one of the original mediums of storing musical data: vinyl records.Used Kids Records is a staple of the music scene in Columbus. We'll talk with the owner.We'll meet an artist who was born in Taiwan, raised in Belize and attended college in Canada. Now living in Columbus, she puts the rhythm of her worldly movement into her art.One entrepreneur has single-handedly brought the tastes of the world to the Midwest. We will meet the franchise owner of multiple restaurants and cafes that are bringing different international-inspired menus from Palestinian bread and Yemeni coffee to shawarma and desserts to central Ohio.It's all part of this week's Fascinating Ohio.Guests:Greg Hall, owner, Used Kids Records - (00:00)Yani Sheng, artist - (17:57)Ibrahim Al Mahaireh, owner, Juice Time, Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co., Al Manakeesh, Farooj Abo Al Abed Ohio - (35:18)If you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.

The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of Haitian families living in Ohio has been temporarily extended. Previously, a federal judge stepped in at the last minute and blocked the Trump administration's attempt to end the TPS agreement.With their protected status still in effect, many Haitians in Ohio can breathe a sigh of relief– for now.But a court battle over the issue will continue. And the temporary stay does not take away the worries about immigration enforcement activity.We're talking about the status of the Haitian community in Ohio and the impact they have on the Buckeye state.Guests:Emily Brown, director, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law's Immigration Clinic - (00:00)Sophia Pierrelus, entrepreneur/former secretary of the Mouvement Patriotique des Haïtiens Conscients - (17:01)Viles Dorsainvil, executive director, Haitian Community Help and Support Center - (36:17)If you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation, you can request an alternative format.(Photo Credit: Jessie Wardarski / AP)