Live Forward Live

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has long been one of the city's crown jewels — and under the leadership of President and CEO Tom Schmid, it's stepping boldly into a new era. In this episode, Boxer and Sarah chat with Tom about his decades-long career in wildlife conservation, the Zoo's evolving mission, and the exciting debut of the North America Trek — a groundbreaking new exhibit opening this summer. From behind-the-scenes animal stories to global conservation partnerships, Tom shares how the Zoo is creating unforgettable experiences while making a real impact in Columbus and around the world.

Chef BJ Lieberman has become a household name in Columbus' culinary scene, known for bringing heart, flavor and innovation to every concept he creates. In this episode, Boxer and Sarah sit down with BJ Liberman ahead of the opening of Metsi's — his most personal restaurant yet. From his journey to becoming a chef to what makes the Columbus dining scene special to the family inspiration behind Metsi's, this conversation dives deep into food, creativity and the city that fuels it all. Plus, BJ shares his favorite local spots, the unique vibe of the Short North and what guests can expect when they walk through Metsi's doors.

The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday, has grown into one of the most prestigious stops on the PGA Tour — and one of Columbus' most anticipated summer traditions. In this episode, Boxer and Sarah sit down with Dan Sullivan, Managing Partner at HNS Sports Group and Executive Director of the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday, to talk about the tournament's legacy, the ongoing influence of Jack Nicklaus, and what makes the event so much more than just world-class golf. From enhancing the fan experience to driving sustainability and community impact, Dan shares how the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday continues to shape the future of sports and hospitality in Columbus.

COSI has been named the #1 science museum in the country — again! In this episode of Yes, Columbus, we're joined by Josh Sarver, COSI's Chief Experience Officer, to talk about what makes this cultural institution so special. From groundbreaking exhibits to hands-on learning experiences, Josh shares how COSI continues to inspire curiosity and innovation. Plus, we get an inside look at the exciting new exhibit, Unofficial Galaxies, and the upcoming COSI Science Festival. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at one of Columbus' most beloved attractions! 

Chef Andrew Smith has long been involved in shaping Columbus as a culinary city. From his time at beloved local restaurants to launching the exclusive Roys Avenue Supper Club and his highly anticipated new restaurant, Isla, Andrew's passion for food and community shines through in every dish. He joins Boxer and Sarah to share his journey, insights into Columbus' evolving dining scene, and what guests can expect from Isla.

As a driving force behind Columbus' growing fashion industry, Yohannan “Yogi” Terrell is shaping the city's creative future. He joins Boxer and Sarah to talk about his journey as an entrepreneur, the impact of Columbus Fashion Alliance, and the exciting plans for the upcoming Fashion Innovation Hub. From fostering local talent to putting Columbus on the map as a fashion capital, Yogi shares how the city is evolving as a hub for style and innovation.

Voted Columbus' top comedian, Henry Allen has built a name for himself both locally and nationally. He sits down with Boxer and Sarah to share more about his career path, insight into what makes Don't Tell Comedy's pop-up shows exciting, and how Columbus continues to grow as a great city for comedy. If you love to laugh, this episode is a must-listen! 

Columbus has solidified itself as a premier sports city, and the upcoming NHL Stadium Series is another major milestone. Todd Sharrock, VP of Communications for the Columbus Blue Jackets, joins Boxer and Sarah to discuss his 25-year journey with the team, what makes Columbus a great city for hockey, and the impact this event will have on the city's future in professional sports.

Ross Bjork, The Ohio State University's Senior Vice President and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director, joins Boxer and Sarah to talk about what it's like at the helm of one of the largest collegiate athletic departments in the nation and the sports scene in Columbus. From memories of his first game at The Shoe this season to his family's favorite activities in Columbus to the crossroads of college athletics, you won't want to miss our final episode of the year.   

From new Cask Strength Whiskeys to a mid-week celebration with fried chicken and bubbles at Service Bar, Josh Daily, General Manager at Middle West Spirits, joins us to chat about what's new and what's coming soon at their award-winning craft distillery and restaurant

From Olipop to Brownie Points and from Little Words Project to Michael Malul, TENSPACE brings beloved online brands to life in creative and immersive ways in Columbus' Short North Arts District. Join us for a conversation with Rachel Friedman, CEO of TENFOLD and TENSPACE, about industry trends and what makes Columbus the perfect place for innovative retail design.

Columbus' food scene has been making headlines in recent months with articles in Condé Nast Traveler, Bon Appétit, Essence and more. Cobra is one of Columbus' hottest restaurants and they're celebrating their one-year anniversary. Join us for a conversation with Alex Chien, co-owner/operator of Cobra.  

Columbus has a new trail—the Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail! Join us as we chat with Nick Trifelos, Marketing Specialist at Anthony-Thomas Candy Co., one of the stops on Experience Columbus' trail. What's in Ohio's iconic candy? What does the trail entail? Find out on this week's episode. 

Columbus is one of the top fashion cities in the country. From the local designers who call Columbus home to the national retailers based here, during this episode we'll talk about what makes Columbus' fashion scene unique and get a preview of this year's Fashion Week Columbus. Join us as we chat with Keira Chatman, executive director of the Columbus Fashion Council, and Lindsey Drahos, owner of Hosful Collective.

Join us as we chat with Tim Morton, Executive Chef for Makeready, the team behind Hank's Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar, and Shawn Applin, Executive Chef of Chouette. You'll hear stories about how the menu items you love came to be and learn why the team behind the legendary Charleston restaurant chose Columbus for their second and first out-of-state location.

Taking place in January 2024 in Columbus, hear all about the U.S. Figure Skating Championships from famed Olympian Brian Boitano! He shares his excitement for the competition – and his role at the event – as well as his memories from his own days skating and all the amazing things to look forward to at the Championships in Columbus.

Go behind-the-scenes of the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, coming to Columbus in January of 2024. Linda Logan, CEO and President of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission, shares the history and behind-the-scenes work to secure the Championships for Columbus and to make them an unforgettable experience. And hear from Austin Tootle, fashion designer and CCAD grad, about his career and how he became the costume designer for a competitor in the U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

Dive into Columbus' favorite holiday traditions! Get tips on how to experience the Hop's exciting offerings this year, the history of this well-loved event and more from Betsy Pandora, Short North Alliance Executive Director. Then, get an insider's peek on what to see and do at Easton Town Center for the holidays with the family from Marketing Director Emily Garvey and Sr. Brand Experience Manager Meredith Leighton.

Celebrate Columbus' favorite holiday traditions by heading behind-the-scenes at Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo, a beloved experience with millions of lights and tons of festivities. You'll hear about the first years and history of Wildlights from Donivan Harkness, the Zoo's ground maintenance manager (who has long been instrumental toWildlights), and Sarah Harkness, the events and promotions coordinator, on what it takes to get Wildlights up and running.

Get ready to explore Columbus' must-see holiday events this season. Go behind the scenes of the Ohio History Connection's Dickens of a Christmas and German Village's iconic Streizelmarkt with history, fun facts and all the details on what it takes to execute these classic experiences.

Celebrate the holiday season in Columbus by going behind-the-scenes of the community's favorite experiences and events. Dive into the secrets and stories of BalletMet's beloved performances of The Nutcracker, and hear dancer David Ward and costume & shoe supervisor Caitlin Headley share what's special about the holidays and life in Columbus.

The Near East Side of Columbus is imbued with history and culture, including areas like King-Lincoln, Olde Towne East, Franklin Park, Bexley and more. Hear from Suzan Bradford, longtime Executive Director of the Lincoln Theatre, about her life growing up in King Lincoln, her experience guiding the historic theatre's revival, and her career and passion for exploring and teaching West African dance in Columbus.

Known for its inclusivity, vibrant local business and restaurant communities, the nightlife, and local art galleries, the Short North Arts District is one of the most iconic and lively neighborhoods in Columbus. Learn all about chef BJ Lieberman's unique and popular restaurants in the Short North and German Village, and hear what brought him to Columbus from his successful pursuits in Washington, D.C. and Charleston.

German Village is charming and historic, instantly identifiable by its brick homes and streets. Learn all about this tightknit community's evolution, character and beloved local businesses and shops from Sean Kessler, Executive Director of the German Village Society.

With three major venues just steps from each other, the Arena District has transformed dramatically over the years into a vibrant, walkable hub for pro sports. Hear the personal experiences and stories of two longtime Arena District personnel, Todd Sharrock (Columbus Blue Jackets, Dir. of Communications) and Dave Redelberger (Columbus Arenas Sports & Entertainment, Dir. of Communications and Interactive Marketing)

Located in a new neighborhood called The Peninsula downtown steps from COSI, the #1 science museum in the country, sits The Junto. Hear about how this new hotel is shaping Columbus' future.

As Designer Brands CEO, Roger Rawlins leads one of the U.S.'s largest organizations of designers, producers and retailers of footwear and accessories. Raised in Columbus, hear why this top exec was happy to stick around the city throughout his career.

The RAPID5 project in Columbus will connect residents and visitors to nature like nowhere else. Hear about this trailblazing effort from RAPID5 President and CEO, Dr. Amy Acton.

Lubna Najjar returns for another episode to take us deeper into Columbus' thriving fashion scene and talk about her current fashion projects, and sustainability initiatives with her denim line, HER Denim.

Emmy Award-winning host of YouTube's Brave Wilderness, Coyote Peterson, takes us behind-the-scenes of his show and life in Columbus.

Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D., has built a legacy inspiring people around the world as a disability inclusion expert. Hear her remarkable story of resiliency and how Columbus has shaped her business.

Learn how Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams founder, Jeni Britton, pioneered the artisan ice cream movement through her fearless mentality and visionary drive.

Join Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and PCMA President & CEO Sherrif Karamat to hear why a global organization chose Columbus to host its 2023 Convening Leaders convention, January 8-11.

Comic artist and Columbus College of Art & Design Assistant Professor CM Campbell talks about his artistic practice, Columbus' creative community and where he finds inspiration.

Emmy Award-winning host of YouTube's Brave Wilderness, Coyote Peterson, takes us behind-the-scenes of his show and life and offers tips for adventure-seekers in Columbus.

Lubna Najjar returns for another episode to take us deeper into Columbus' thriving fashion scene and talk about her current fashion projects, including her new line, HER Denim.

Rosemarie Rosetti's life changed in an instant when a 7,000-pound tree fell on her. Through her resiliency, she has built a legacy and inspired people around the world. Learn about her remarkable story and where she likes to explore in Columbus.

Returning for another episode, Top Chef Season 18 contestant, chef and entrepreneur Avishar Barua talks about why he chose Columbus to open his new restaurant and what's unique about Columbus' culinary scene.

A pioneer of the artisan ice cream movement, Jeni Britton, founder and chief creative officer of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, shares why she calls Columbus home and her favorite places in Ohio's capital city.

Opera is a visceral production that brings us together. General Director & CEO of Opera Columbus, Julia Noulin-Merat, speaks to this and more.

Episode nine: Guests Lubna Najjar, Gerardo Encinas, (Co-host Sarah Townes) Learn why Columbus is the ideal city to enjoy the holidays, from beloved attractions to lots of local shopping experiences.

Get ready for the action! Columbus is excited to be hosting the NCAA D1 Women's Volleyball Championship for the second time.

Matt Barnes, morning co-anchor of NBC4 Today, joins the show to talk Columbus sports from his experience as a fan and media member.

Local business owners tell us their success stories: How they got started, what's next, and how Columbus has helped them shine. -Guests Traci Lukemire, Chakeyla Anderson, Joel Cosme

Hear from Top Chef contestant Avishar Barua on why Columbus is where you want to be to enjoy amazing food with truly good people.

From museum events to larger-than-life murals around every corner, Columbus has an arts scene that is sure to inspire.

Guests Tim Moloney, Malik Willoughby, Mitchell Bienvenue, Romain Ntati -Columbus is the ideal city for getting active outdoors. Trails, kayaking, rock climbing...the possibilities are endless!

Learn about Columbus Fashion Alliance, opportunities for budding designers, and hidden gems in Columbus for the fashion-minded.Guests Yohannan Terrell & Kelly Schnur

Hear about Fashion Week Columbus, how happy animals make for happy clothing, and why the city is a hot spot for designers.Guests Thomas McClure & Celeste Malvar-Stewart