Advertise on podcast: Going There: Taboo Topics Are Back on the Table

What if joy isn't the reward for learning, but the lesson itself?In this episode, Matt sits down with Allie Rivera Quiñonez, better known to millions of families as Ms. Appleberry from CoComelon's "The Melon Patch," alongside her sister, Nicole Rivera, Moonbug Media's Senior Creative Executive, for a conversation about children's media, creativity, family, and the big responsibility of helping shape little minds. Together, they explore how children learn through music, movement, play, imagination, and occasionally making adults sing songs they swore they'd never have memorized.  As The Melon Patch continues to reach families through YouTube Kids, Netflix, and Disney +, Allie & Nicole share the intentional approach behind creating content that teaches confidence, connection, curiosity, and emotional growth.  Their shared vision has helped bring meaningful educational experiences to children around the world. Of course, Matt couldn't pass up the opportunity to discuss one of his favorite topics: puppets.  From beloved childhood characters to today's educational storytellers, they explore why felt, foam, and a little imagination can sometimes teach lessons that stick with us for a lifetime. Whether you're a parent, educator, creator, or someone who still gets excited when a puppet enters the scene, this conversation is a reminder that the most meaningful learning often starts with wonder.  Join us as we go there. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jerrad Christian, a software engineer and Navy veteran, is back on the campaign trail, after losing his freshman congressional race in 2024, now running a grassroots campaign to unseat U.S. House of Representatives Troy Balderson, a Republican for Ohio's 12th District, and recipient of corporate PAC money and billionaire donors. Jerrad’s here to make change and give the power back to the people of the state. He doesn’t pull any punches. He tells it like he’s sees it. Even his merchandise proudly boasts, he doesn't "give a F*** about Billionaires." His "HOT" takes are only matched by some hot sauces in this discussion, as Matt and Jerrad partake in some spicy sauces over some delicious pierogies; an Ohio staple. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Maeshiro joins the podcast to share his experience as a former pastor recovering from religious toxicity. Mike is gay, an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and a queer theology enthusiast. He is a former instructor at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, best known for his class, “Discerning of Spirits.” He now teaches on emotional health and redemptive deconstruction as a consultant and coach for gay men recovering from evangelicalism. As a social media influencer, he highlights the issues he sees from his perspective and our cultural problems with homophobia, transphobia and Christian hate.  Matt and Mike read through some of his messages and DMs from those unwilling to accept Mike as a gay man who preaches love and acceptance.  In Mike's own words, “Humans matter more than theology." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does "Community" look like to you? Is it your neighborhood, favorite sports fans, or fellow churchgoers?  Whoever your tribe is and whatever your common interests and values, community is vital to our well-being. Matt brings some of his fellow Cleveland organizers and content creators to share their ideas and experiences with building community.  John Skrtic of the Cleveland Public Library has spent 20 years profiling Clevelanders and their stories.  Brian Lachman is the force behind The People's Flag of Cleveland, along with his new Foodbank fundraising organization, Homegrown Help.  And Kristin Mulcahy, aka KristininCleveland, creates content and organizes events for people of all ages, including KidsinCleveland Yoga.  We rarely see more than the polished event photos and videos, or testimonials from the successes along the way.  But building true community is messy.  It's hard.  It's sometimes grueling.  And not every villager helps create the village. The more we find ourselves divided by geography, politics, or social media, the harder it becomes to find the courage to allow ourselves to be vulnerable enough to enter into some of these spaces and relationships. For humans, though, we need fellowship, engagement and belonging. It's not about surviving, it's about thriving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt's Season 3 Birthday Episode is all about his favorite comicbook hero of all time: Superman.  Matt talks about why he loves the character so much and how it has represented hope throughout his life.  Several people from the 2025 Superman film join the episode to share their experiences working on the film.  Mike Wendt from the Greater Cleveland Film Commission talks about Cleveland being the inspiration for Metropolis and selling DC/Warner on its production values.  Actress Ashleigh Morghan, who played the LuthorCorp Scientist in the film, discusses her process and craft, as well as her love for the comics and characters.  And Megan-Kate Hoover, Animal wrangler and trainer, shares stories from the set, providing support and expertise with dogs, squirrels, turtles and cats for the big screen.  Plus Siegel and Shuster Society's former President, Mike Olszewski, gives some history on Superman, his creators, and all the ties to the city of Cleveland.  With co-producer Kayleigh leading the charge, friends of Matt pop in to roast and toast him for his big day, back on December 28th, 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Less than 1 week before the Ohio Primary election of 2026, Bryan Hambley, a leukemia doctor and candidate for Secretary of State, sits at the Going There table to share his personal, professional and social viewpoints.  The focus of his campaign and political aspirations rests on the idea of fair elections and dismantling the gerrymandered maps.  What can a doctor bring to the table?  Tune in to learn more about this political candidate who stands alone at the line of refusing any corporate PAC money.  Although he would argue he isn't lonely because his values, morals and integrity are on his side. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our avoidance and aversion to death have been commonplace in modern society.  When we know our ultimate inevitability, why don't we focus on ways to live our best lives so that we can depart in true peace?  In recent years, Death Doulas have emerged, acting as a guiding hand for the family, friends, and the soon-to-be deceased.  Nicole Hoover, aka Death Doula Nicole, joins the show for a discussion on legacy work, supporting loved ones, and embracing life's end.  From Death Cafes to corporate benefits, much more can be done to change the way we view and experience death and loss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Only weeks before the Ohio Primary election of 2026, Allison Russo, Ohio State Representative and Secretary of State candidate, joins the show for a somewhat tongue-in-cheek chat, a la Between Two Ferns.  Beyond the deadpan humor and left-field questions from Matt, we dig into the serious components of what the Secretary of State does and why that role is so important with keeping elections fair and safe.  In a year when the President is threatening to nationalize the election, to dispatch ICE to polling locations and block many groups from voting, this conversation is dire.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Modern day life is pretty tough.  For those of us who grew up before 9/11, before social media, and before the era of Trump, we're pretty nostalgic about yesteryear.  Every generation looks back fondly over the good ol' days, but there seems to be something extra special about childhood in the 80s and 90s.  A big part of what made it special was the entertainment and pop culture.  We had a chance to sit down with the man who voiced many of those memories for us.  Townsend Coleman was the voice of Michaelangelo from the original "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" cartoon; the voice of "The Tick," Must-See-TV NBC, "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, and many, many, many more.  He shares his gratitude for the experiences and the fans.  With the rise of popularity in Comic Conventions and the like, he finally gets to reap the rewards by getting to engage and chat with all the fans whose lives he touched.  It's totally tubular!  Cowabunga!!! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re all painfully aware of what’s happening in politics at the federal level at all times. You see what's happening in your immediate community and are up on the latest gossip in the neighborhood.  But how in tune are you with the inner workings of the state government?  Whether you’re in a red state, a blue state, or a purple one, much of what takes place in the statehouse probably isn’t on your radar.  You see the main bills that get passed if they affect you or your circle.  You know some of the main issues that are debated.  But do you know what’s happening behind the scenes?  Who’s pulling the strings or steering the ship?  Is your vote carrying its proper weight? And are your interests being represented?   We're joined by Ohio State Senator, Casey Weinstein and Ohio State Representative & Democratic Minority Leader, Dani Issacsohn.  They give us a much-needed civics lesson as well as a large serving of hope for the future.  Ohio is a superminority for Democrats, but with the 2026 elections nearing, at the time of this episode, there are changes that are taking place that have high potential to serve all the residents...not just of Ohio, but in many of the states that have been craving servant leadership.  Americans across the board are hungry for dedicated, passionate, loyal representatives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trae Crowder, comedian, author and internet sensation, joins us for a conversation on his roots, his ideology and the current state of comedy.  From growing up in a red town as one of the few blue sheep and his dad introducing him to film and comedy; to having and accepting a gay uncle, being mesmerized by Eddie Izzard and Chris Rock's comedy.  His background is unique because of time and place.  His voice, wit and accent are a deadly combination.  But his values in equity and justice have spanned beyond comedy and into the social media world, acting as a beacon of empathy and giving people a reason to laugh in the darkest of times.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the wealth gap widens and the cost of living skyrockets, the numbers of the unhoused and underserved grows at a rapid pace.  Not only are most of us closer to their situations than ever becoming ultra wealthy, but we avoid thinking about these communities at all costs.  Women from 3 different homeless charities join the podcast to discuss the problems, the myths, the data and the realities.  Lerryn Campbell from The Homeless Charity and Village (Akron, OH), Allison Martzolf from Friends in Tents (Akron, OH) and Debbie Eastburn from Humble Design, Cleveland (Solon, OH) discuss one of the most important topics in our modern world.  Prepare to have your heart broken, warmed, and filled in this episode.  With lots of laughter and human connection. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outside of Philadelphia, PA, down the street where "The Lovely Bones" was filmed, we visit the home of film programmer, Nick Lombardo and his wife Nikki, both mega horror fans and collectors. Our friend Shaun Casper, designer/illustrator and sfx makeup artist, joins Nick and our host, Matt for a deep dive discussion on the Horror genre. They discuss the psychology of the films, the stigma that is slowly dissolving, and the beauty in the outcasts connecting through the craft and nostalgia. Why are these films so loved? Why do people enjoy being scared? Will the devil actually attack you through the screen? Everything is back on the table for these three as they nerd out on this episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2025 elections delivered some surprising results, illustrating the change that Americans are craving...even in areas that were otherwise galvanized in the political stronghold. Upsets and some firsts were made in Virginia, Georgia, New Jersey, Michigan, and of course, New York City. Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim, Democratic Socialist, at the height of the Israel-Palestine conflict, garnered support from New Yorkers of all types. Not just the typical young liberals...but the Jewish vote, the Muslim vote, the Christian vote, old, young, and everything between. What do his policies look like and how will they affect New Yorkers? We interview Cory Choy of Silver Sound Studio NYC to share his real life experiences. And, we take to the streets for some classic man-on-the-street interviews, to get more opinions from his constituency. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the modern era of mansplainers, super alphas and groypers, true men are being overshadowed by toxic masculinity. Matt brings in three guests; a former US Army Drill Sergeant, a former NHL player and a "guy's guy" or ladies man; for a raw, authentic and vulnerable conversation on masculinity what it means to be a man. The only heavy weights lifted are emotional ones. The only thing chugged is a pill of self awareness. What's the difference between a boss and a leader? What's healthier, the stoic or the active listener? And because it's discussed in the balance of polarity, this episode is for men and women alike. They flex those sexy brain muscles with this discussion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.