Episodes of the Akron Podcast

155
Nov. 9, 2026

Circle K Employee Gets Fired For Defending His Store

Akron’s changing leaf-pickup plan has David asking one simple question: why can’t the city just stick to a schedule? This episode also spotlights a new neighborhood hangout, funding for youth programs, a developing University of Akron lawsuit, and a Circle K clerk’s account of what happened after an attempted robbery. Plus, find out what’s coming up around Akron this November. Press play for the local stories and events on David’s radar. Support this Podcast Sources Used or Mentioned In This Ep...
154
Nov. 3, 2026

Who Has the Cheapest Groceries?

Hey it's voting day! Did you vote for Turd sandwich or giant douche? Today we have news from the airport that will be creating jobs, some holiday activities coming to downtown Akron for the winter, and a report from the Beacon Journal about how much it would cost at local grocery stores. Support the Show Acorns Online Banking Monarch Money Takeaways: We said voting feels like choosing between a douche and a turd sandwich, sadly true. I cheered that the political ads end tomorrow, because tha...
153
Oct. 26, 2026

Akron Blocks National Access to Our Floc Cameras

National searches lose access to Akron Floc cameras (kind of), you better answer those questions when you get pulled over, your water bill is going up, there is a $5000 reward from Turkeyfoot, what is up with RTA and more. PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated. Research Links Sources Used or Mentioned In This Epi...
152
Oct. 23, 2026

Hoolihan Has Died

What do river warning lights, a $70 million zoo makeover, a bridge closure, and William Shatner have in common? They’re all part of what’s happening around Akron and Northeast Ohio. In this episode, I cover local news, share a few thoughts on the stories behind it, and look ahead at the concerts and events coming to the area. Press play for the latest—including where to find your community’s trick-or-treat hours. In addition to the sad new of Bob "Hoolihan" Wells passing away, I talk about: I ...
151
Oct. 21, 2026

Free Bus Rides on Voting Day

Today it was kind of hard to find some happy news, but Metro is offering free bus rides on November3rd. If you're like me, you're sooooo tired of all the political ads, but the good news is voting day is right around the corner. Hang in the Akron. Resources Used Sources Used or Mentioned In This Episode Giant Douche vs Turd Sandwich Cedar Point closes Millennium Force roller coaster as part falls Akron defends use of Flock surveillance cameras Insurers, utilities fund groups spending in Ohio ...
150
Oct. 15, 2026

Protests, Pumpkins, and (bad) Parents

Welcome to the Akron Podcast for October 15th, 2026, where today’s episode covers a dynamic mix of local news and events. The conversation focused on recent “No Kings” protests across Northeast Ohio, explored a troubling incident involving an Akron police officer, and highlighted family-friendly fall activities like pumpkin patches. A key theme that emerged was community impact—with updates on a new connected learning center at the Boys and Girls Club, the sadness surrounding the passing of the ...
149
Oct. 2, 2026

Phones Out, Hands Off: Akron Officer Attacked as Crowd Watches

An Akron police officer was punched and bitten on Copley Road while people around her pulled out their phones and laughed. I can't let that one go, and on this episode I explain why it should bother every one of us. I've also got the Akron officer caught snooping through the city's Flock camera network, a morning shootout on Brown Street, and some news that eCheck haters have been waiting decades to hear. Then we lighten up with Halloween events, trick-or-treat night, and a packed October concer...
148
Sept. 23, 2026

Jobs, Policies, Programs, and Pacman

This is today's Akron news, with a little commentary from me. Get paid to rake Akron's leaves The city is hiring seasonal leaf collectors at $18 an hour. It's full-time for six to eight weeks, with 12-hour shifts Monday through Saturday, so the overtime adds up fast. Hiring sessions run 5–6 p.m.: Sept. 23 at Patterson Park Sept. 24 at Reservoir Park Community Center Sept. 30 at Lawton Street Community Center Oct. 1 at Firestone Park (starts at 6 p.m.) It's a great way to show you're reliab...
147
Sept. 2, 2026

Bats in Your House: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

Today, we're diving into some noteworthy happenings around Akron, starting with a rather serious note: if you have a criminal record, there’s a chance you might soon get a clean slate. Yep, the laws are changing, and it might just be your lucky day. We also need to chat about a recent settlement concerning a tragic shooting that left many in the community with more questions than answers. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom; the Akron City Festival is just around the corner, promising a...
146
Aug. 14, 2026

FIghter Jets Come to Town

What's going on in Akron? Fighter jets, Free Laundry, Park updates, Police Funding, Scam Alerts and more. We hear how when something isn't supported, it goes away, so support the show. Sources Used or Mentioned In This Episode Free Laundry What's going on in Summit County? Check out the new Akron Pulse site Ohio police warn about new bank scam. How it works, how to stay safe Sheetz confirms it's new location in Springfield Township Sherbony Hill Park Refurbished J'Air Bell killed in Akron shoo...
145
Aug. 4, 2026

Pickle Fest: The Wildest Competition You Didn't Know You Needed

The Airport Gets an Upgrade The Akron Canton Airport is about to get a makeover, thanks to a hefty $9.1 million federal grant aimed at upgrading the Akron Canton airport. This funding, part of a larger $870 million initiative, is expected to enhance passenger boarding bridges and key facilities, paving the way for a smoother travel experience as the airport anticipates a 23.5% increase in passenger numbers. Floc Stats in Our City The discussion also touches on the growing presence of Fl...
144
Aug. 3, 2026

Swenson's Listed in National Poll

We've got some good news (Swensons and Dancing) and some interesting news (the Police Oversight and Water Mains), and you need to support some blood drives happening. Takeaways: Akron is encouraging community groups to host climate conversations, even providing $200 stipends. Swensons, a local burger joint, is recognized as one of the top fast food restaurants. Blood drives are happening throughout Akron, reminding us all how crucial donations can be. The city is implementing stricter guide...
143
July 24, 2026

What the Flock?

Did you know there is a skeleton of Bigfoot in downtown Akron? Me Neither. We have tons of stuff to talk about. If you find this valuable, then give some value back. Takeaways: The Northside Marketplace is permanently closing due to ongoing financial challenges, leaving many vendors in limbo. Akron Public Schools superintendent Mary Outley received praise for her first year, but budget deficits loom large. The police successfully dismantled a drug trafficking operation, resulting in multiple...
142
July 17, 2026

Skyway Drive-in Closes

In today’s episode of the Akron Podcast, we tackle some serious issues affecting the community, starting with the unsettling news surrounding a shooter at Akron University. We aim to sift through the rumors and get to the heart of what really unfolded, shedding light on the reality behind the headlines. This isn't just another news blip; it’s a conversation that resonates deeply within our community. Following this, we face the bittersweet reality of local business changes as we discuss the Fair...
141
July 13, 2026

Historic Statue Broken

Highland Square Station Number Two is in the news for all the wrong reasons—its iconic fountain statue has gone missing after a man seeking relief from the heat took a dive into it and broke its umbrella. We’ll talk about how this isn't classified as vandalism because, you know, it’s just a hot day and a bad decision. But wait, there's more! The Soapbox Derby is back in town, promising to be another thrilling spectacle, while Central Howard is on track for a major overhaul that could breathe new...
140
July 2, 2026

Where Are Fireworks in Akron Ohio?

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Akron In this episode, I get you ready for the Fourth of July with a rundown of where you can catch fireworks all around the Akron area. As America celebrates its 250th birthday, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the holiday. If you're staying in Akron, Lock 3's fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m., but I'll also share plenty of other options if you're looking for something closer to home. Fireworks - Pools - and Discounted Rides I also talk abou...
139
June 5, 2026

Devo Returns Home

So today I will share my experience going downtown to check out Devo at the Civic. I also talk about Blimp Day, Zoo News, APS Terminations, Pro Golf in Akron, Zoo News, Veterans getting help, Camp Creative along with Connect at the Rec, Grocery stores, and a whole lot more PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated. Mentione...
138
May 22, 2026

State Of the City Part 3

So I went to the "State of the City" (part 3) presentation at the beautiful civic. I didn't know what to expect, but I was surprised by the turnout. A wide variety of Akronites, who were all lead by Kindergarteners to open with the pledge of Allegiance. It was special The Mayor went through the different things the city has been planning and doing. Was it a pep rally? Sure, but you can ignore the positive things happening in the city. We like to poke fun of those things that aren't, but all in ...
137
May 18, 2026

Devo Day? Would You Vote For This?

Welcome to the Akron Podcast, today we have a lot news to cover with restaurant's coming and goings, Cedar Point News, Devo, shootings, and road closures along with the new trash facility and the APS. PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated. Got Feedback? Leave a message for the show and we'll play it in the show. Intro...
136
May 15, 2026

Free Meals for Kids: A Summer Lifeline in Akron

AI Voices Today For Some of the Show Kicking off with a mix of sarcasm and sincerity, Dave dives straight into the chaos of recording amidst a symphony of jackhammers. The irony of trying to deliver a podcast with construction noise in the background is not lost on him, and honestly, it sets the perfect tone for what’s to come. PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fu...
135
May 9, 2026

Shooting Scares and Mayor's Reports: Just Another Day in Akron

Lots of news today, along with an extended look at a new report from the Mayor. If you enjoy the show, please consider supporting the show. PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated. Takeaways: In Akron, the police department has faced scrutiny over use of force incidents and accountability issues. Recent independent rev...
134
May 4, 2026

Voting on Tuesday: Because Who Doesn't Love a Good Local Levy?

Voting This Week in Akron I’m turning my attention to local politics this week, and honestly, there’s a lot going on with the upcoming primary elections. There’s a real sense of urgency here—between school funding proposals and even changes in polling locations, this isn’t one to sleep on. And yeah, I’ll admit it… low voter turnout is always a little frustrating. It almost feels like an open invitation for the wrong people to sneak through. So consider this my reminder: get out and vote. If noth...
133
May 1, 2026

Congresswoman Sykes is Bringing Millions to the Area

Congresswoman Emilia Sykes is Bringing Money to the Area Federal funding is flowing into Summit County, and it’s a mixed bag of good news and head-scratchers. Projects on the docket include a whopping $1.2 million for South Main Street improvements, which will finally make it less of a hazard to navigate. This revamp will include upgraded roads and sidewalks, and maybe even some bike lanes—because who doesn’t love dodging traffic on two wheels? In Peninsula, another $1.09 million is earmarked ...
132
April 21, 2026

Louigi's Now Accepting Credit Cards!

LOUIGI'S FINALLY ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS! Exciting developments are unfolding in Akron with the announcement that Luigi's Pizza is now accepting credit cards. Yes, you heard that right! This revelation feels like a miracle happening in the middle of June, and it’s about time. We dive deep into the absurdity of a beloved local institution clinging to cash-only transactions for so long. It was like living in the dark ages every time we had to hunt down an ATM just to enjoy a slice of their deliciou...