Thomas Edison, Toni Morrison, Lebron James, Halle Berry, Neil Armstrong, Gloria Steinem, eight U.S. presidents, Dean Martin, Dave Chappelle, The Wright brothers — The list of noteworthy people from Ohio is as long as it is diverse.

Bob Hope, Steven Spielberg, Phyllis Diller, Jonathan Winters, John Glenn, Cy Young, John D. Rockefeller, George Steinbrenner, Ted Turner, The Isley Brothers, Lillian Gish — It’s not just long, some find it exhausting … unless you’re From Ohio.

For whatever reason, the Buckeye State has delivered a veritable treasure trove of talented and inspiring people, some who are universally known, others who should be. But all have helped shape culture, impacted society in profound ways and contributed to the betterment of the human condition. Olympic gymnast Simone Biles did it on a four-inch beam performing on a world stage. George “Shotgun” Shuba did it with a simple handshake.

But they all have one thing in common — they are all From Ohio. 

As a proud Ohioan, and a self-diagnosed Ohiophile, it is my privilege to present From Ohio, a podcast dedicated to some of the greatest people and stories in the state’s rich history. Each episode comes in as an insightful 17 minutes of inspiration, education and fun. Why 17 minutes? It’s, of course, a nod to Ohio being the 17th state to join the union!

On From Ohio, we link up with a featured guest to discuss their stories and their Ohio roots. How did it shape who they became? Do they still live there or go back for visits? What’s their relationship with the state now? What inspiration do they draw from their upbringing. Just what is their Ohio story?

The goal is to appreciate our Ohio heroes, catalog their stories and inspire the next generation of creators From Ohio.

The state motto is "With God All Things Are Possible.” From Ohio's guests are proof.

We hope you enjoy the show!

Phil Smrek 

Host of From Ohio