Defend Warren

From Hardship to Hope: The Story of the Warren Family Mission Episode Description In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Kate White and Dominic Mararri of the Warren Family Mission to discuss faith, resilience, and the life-changing impact of serving others. Kate shares her upbringing in Lordstown, growing up as one of seven children in deep poverty, and the early influence of her father, Pastor Chris, founder of the Warren Family Mission. Through stories of hardship, ...

Revitalizing Warren: Entertainment, Real Estate, and Economic Opportunity with Ken Haidaris Episode Description In this episode, we sit down with Ken Haidaris—owner of the historic Sunrise Inn, concert promoter, and real estate investor—to discuss the past, present, and future of Warren, Ohio. Ken shares the remarkable history behind some of Warren’s most iconic venues, his role in expanding live entertainment in the city, and why he remains deeply invested in the community’s economic reviva...

We’re excited to introduce a new segment to the Defend Warren podcast focused on helping people understand the mortgage process. Joining us regularly will be Mattie Easton, who brings valuable insight and experience to guide listeners through the home-buying journey. Mattie grew up in Bristolville with her two sisters and graduated in a close-knit class of just 30 students. As a teen, she loved dancing at local clubs and community spots. She attended Kent State University and later earned her...

He currently serves as the Chief Legal Counsel at JP Morgan Law. Originally from East Liverpool, Ohio, he comes from a family that started a furniture business. In the 7th grade, his family relocated to Mineral Ridge, where he graduated from Mineral Ridge High School. He shares fond memories of growing up in Mineral Ridge, including his first “small” business venture as a child. He later attended the C.S. Lewis Institute in Youngstown, an organization focused on helping individuals grow as ...

Natasha graduated from Warren G. Harding High School in 1996, earned her bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University in 2000, and obtained her Juris Doctor from the University of Akron in 2004. Growing up on the north side of Warren, she developed a strong work ethic early on, delivering newspapers and working at a concession stand from the age of 14. With a firm belief that mindset shapes one’s future, Natasha shares her determination and personal journey to earning her law degree. Sh...

It is with both gratitude and a heavy heart that I share this episode. Ron took the time to speak with me in early summer 2024, and I truly enjoyed our conversation. He was a wealth of knowledge, and I had the pleasure of knowing him for about 10 years, sharing insightful discussions from time to time. If you're a business owner, this is a must-listen episode. Ron grew up in Girard and graduated from Girard City Schools. At 28, he began his post-high school education in Hiram College’s week...

Leslie Dunlap Owner of Fatty Cakes Soap Company and Fifth Mountain Therapy In this conversation, we explore Leslie's life growing up on Kenilworth Avenue SE, where she attended Laird Avenue Elementary, East Junior High, and graduated from Warren G. Harding High School, Class of 1983. She reflects on her time in the neighborhood, sharing fond memories of shopping at Cicero’s Grocery Store and enjoying pizza from Carmen’s. After high school, Leslie entered the workforce but later pivoted at the...

This is a solo episode where I discuss the purpose of Defend Warren and share some of my observations about what’s happening in our city. Since recording this, a few updates have come to light. Word has it that Rural King, which owns the K-Mart plaza, is finally moving into the old K-Mart space. Time will tell, but that plaza needs significant work—let’s hope they step up. It also looks like a buyer has been found for Trumbull Memorial Hospital, which is more good news for Warren. One landlor...

We talk about all kinds of things. Everything from the Warren Raiders 2003 football state title game to his adventures in the woods near his home. He shares his life post high school. Brandon didn't go to college but worked various full time jobs till he decided to go all in with MDI Studios. Brandon Giovannone, Warren Born and Raised and A 2003 graduate of Warren Harding. Owner of MDI Studios, a Web Design and Stadium Entertainment company. Celebrating their 10th year in ...

This episode I have the pleasure of talking with Lana Kontos. ND, LDHS. She was born and raised in Warren and a graduate of Warren Western Reserve High School. We talk about life growing up in Warren and she shares memories of Raider - Panther rivalry. This episode is useful for anyone with health issue, especially digestive health and immune system issues or would like a stronger immune system. Lana is a Board-certified naturopathic doctor. Trained and certified diet and...

This episode we continue to bring business development to the listeners. We cover the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. Hope this helps! I speak with Mike Lancey who is originally from Los Angeles. He shares life growing up in LA. Everything from running on top of the cinder block walls that enclosed the back yards to his humble beginnings growing up with 2 brothers and a sister, in a very small home. He also was an early skate boarder - his board had metal wheels. &...

Matt Martin, Executive Director of Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership and Shawn Carvin Director of the Trumbull County Land Bank. The amount of work that TNP has done and is doing is amazing. Everything from tackling blight, from organizing the Farmers Market, to addressing the issue of food desserts. Come and here how and what they do. There will be a part 2 because we couldn't cover nearly enough in one episode. Matt Martin - has been the Exec...