Community Episodes

For our first episode in season five, we present Mr. Fred Harris, a lifelong resident of Warren, Ohio, veteran public official, community leader, and historian. Fred shares his journey from growing up Black in the 1950s and 60s in Warren, where he faced segregation and unspoken rules, to serving in the military during a pivotal moment in civil rights history. He reflects on how travel shaped his view of racism and helped set his path in public service. He also discusses lessons from his father, ...

In this season finale and special two-hour episode , we present Dr. Sherri Harper Woods, a counselor, professor, and advocate from Warren, Ohio. A mother and community leader, she shares how early lessons, family loss, and faith led her from local classrooms to global trauma healing. You’ll hear how she built wellness programs reaching from Ohio to Rwanda—offering care, connection, and hope. Most of all, you’ll meet a woman whose mission crosses borders and begins with heart. In This Episode,...

In this episode, we present Dionne Dowdy-Lacy, a powerful advocate from Youngstown, Ohio. A mother, grandmother, and community leader, Dionne shares her journey from a vibrant childhood through personal challenges to creating opportunities for returning citizens. You’ll hear heartfelt stories of resilience, family, and the drive to help others rewrite their futures. Most of all, you’ll meet a woman who lives her mission of care through action, not words. In This Episode, We Discuss: Life Gro...

In this episode, we present Franco Lucarelli, a Navy Veteran and Director of Utilities for Warren, Ohio. With solid roots in Warren, Franco shares his journey of loss, rebellion, and finding unexpected opportunity in hard times. You'll learn eye-opening facts about national and local infrastructure and water. But most of all, you get to know a gentleman who proves loyalty, leadership, and grit through action, not talk. In This Episode, We Discuss: Life in Warren, Ohio Impact of Family Loss Na...

In this episode, we present Pastor Garrick Matlock of the Freeway Gospel Empowerment Center in Warren, Ohio. Born and raised in Warren, Pastor Matlock opens up about his journey—from his roots to his calling in ministry and his work today. This episode is filled with powerful moments of faith, resilience, and purpose, showing how one person’s mission can create a lasting impact. In This Episode, We Discuss: Growing up where community felt like "a big family" Founding Freeway Gospel Empowerment...

In this episode, we present Jeff Cole, a military veteran and captain in the City of Warren Police Department. Born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, Captain Cole shares his inspiring journey from life in Youngstown to law enforcement and everything in between. Throughout this episode, you will hear a common theme of dedication, structure, and integrity—values we all can appreciate. In This Episode, We Discuss: Captain Cole’s life journey from Youngstown to becoming a captain Importance of mento...

In this episode, we present Sarah Lowry, a dedicated advocate for healthier, more connected communities. Growing up in Hubbard, Ohio, Sarah shares how her upbringing and diverse experiences have shaped her journey. From her early career to her work in public policy, Sarah offers insights into the power of collaboration and the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Mahoning Valley. In This Episode, We Discuss: Growing up in Hubbard and the Mahoning Valley. Outdoor spaces for health and connection. ...

In this episode, we present Courtney Boyle, an environmental engineer and founder of ECO, a consulting firm redefining sustainability through equity and community-driven solutions. Raised in Northeast Ohio, Courtney’s journey took her from traditional engineering roles to leading initiatives that merge environmental innovation with meaningful community impact. She shares her work on the Vibrant Valley project, addressing racism as a public health crisis, and reflects on the role of trust and co...

In this episode, we present Tim Callion, a retired skilled tradesman and former business manager with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 396. Tim’s journey led him from early dreams of architecture to a meaningful career in the skilled trades. Growing up in Warren, Ohio, he worked in sewer construction, pest control, and, ultimately, pipefitting. Reflecting on his career and personal battles, Tim shares hard-won lessons about resilience, work ethic, and the value of continual learning, encouraging y...

In this episode, we present Rita Tate, founder of Bess Purpose, Inc., a nonprofit that uplifts impoverished families. Born and raised on the south side of Youngstown, Ohio, Rita’s career in nursing and social work and her time at General Motors and the U.S. Postal Service set the foundation for her passion for service. Since starting Best Purpose in March 2023, she has furnished over 100 homes while stressing the importance of accountability and self-sufficiency for those she helps. Our discuss...

In this episode, we present Matthew Longmire, a community leader and Business Resource Manager at Valley Partners. Matthew's journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Twinsburg, Ohio, where family values and entrepreneurship were a foundation. These values have profoundly shaped his dedication to boosting diversity in the business community. Matthew carries his family's legacy through his work while making a meaningful impact in the Mahoning Valley. Our discussion with Matthew will cover: E...

In this episode, we present Mark Marvin, professional engineer and president of The Marvin Group, Inc. From solid family values to a journey filled with challenges and opportunities, Mark shares these and other stories that have helped him become who he is today. These stories include: Life in a Warren, Ohio MLB Dreams Having to pivot Balancing personal life and business Actual economic development, and Mark's "One Word" So press play, listen, learn and have a few laughs. Ladies and gent...

In this episode, we present Tony Perrone, a nonprofit professional, and advocate who for over 25+ years continues to touch many lives in our community. Our conversation touches on: Power of family Life & Figuring it Out Career Path vs. Destiny Being a Stunt Double Real Leadership Wine-Making and more Press play and prepare to laugh, learn and gain some nuggets of wisdom: Ladies and gentlemen! Sound United Presents, Tony Perrone! Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and vi...

In this episode, we present James Guy, Jr... From the start of the podcast, you quickly feel the passion and dedication of a person who truly knows what he's doing is part of God's Plan. Few understand that everything that happens in our lives and where we land is part of a bigger picture, and we're just a supporting actor or actress. Listen in on a discussion that blended in faith, finances, life lessons, race, and love for the community. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. T...

In this episode, we present Jeff Magada, the executive director of Flying HIGH Inc., based in Youngstown, Ohio. Years before Flying HIGH's founding, Jeff decided, in his words, "to get real with both himself and his Creator." You will hear the outcomes of that decision throughout our discussion and, in the end, understand why Flying HIGH Inc. is successful as it is. As the saying goes, an organization is only as good as its leadership. Connect with Flying HIGH Inc. FHI Website FHI Facebook FHI ...

In this episode, we present Sophia L. Buggs, a community hero and entrepreneur. We'll discuss urban agriculture, food access and safety, family, and what it "REALLY" takes to unite a community. If we could only use three words to define this episode, they would be passionate, vulnerable, and empowering - all qualities of a leader. Connect with Sophia Facebook Instagram Twitter Watch TEDx Talk Book Recommendation/Farming While Black Publisher Amazon Learn more about us Sound United Podcast Studi...

In this episode, we present, unsung community hero, community organizer & social entrepreneur, Myles J. One of his valuable skillsets is uniting people of different ages, cultures, and backgrounds for a common cause, and getting results. Doing this takes passion, moxie, and a vast array of skillsets - the source of many of these skills originated from family. We'll discuss family roots, the path the led him to community organizing, how to unify ALL people, and his connection to the youth through...

For 41 years, Willie Edwards owned and operated Willie's Carwash, on the east side of Warren, Ohio. Before taking the solo entrepreneurial leap-of-faith, leaving his job, ending a partnership, and overcoming the fear of uncertainty would be the first obstacles to overcome - mission accomplished. At the core of Willie's business success were guiding principles such as family, faith, giving back, supporting his community, solid-work ethic, high and keen attention to detail. These principles would...

Opening a restaurant isn't easy. But deciding to open a restaurant with no experience in the industry or having started a business before, is risky. Tony Schoffer, co-owner of the Warren Speakeasy Lounge, in downtown Warren, Ohio, shares his leap of faith, and the rewards of doing so, four years later. Learn more about downtown Warren's best restaurants here. Learn about the Sound United Podcast Studio here. Be sure to subscribe wherever you vibe with podcasts or visit our website. www.sounduni...

Sound United Presents... Michael Engram, the Executive Director of an organization that focuses on the social and academic development of student-athletes. That organization is called Game Changers Leadership and Peer Mentoring Initiative. Game Changers is designed for an immersive learning experience with activities focused on educating, empowering, and inspiring athletes to engage and pursue a holistic approach to becoming productive citizens in the community. This episode was recorded in Sept...