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Katie's journey between Madrid and Columbus reveals the profound ways living abroad shapes your perspective on community, work, and what truly matters in life.

After falling in love with Spain during a high school language program, Katie built a relationship with the country that spanned years, eventually living in Madrid while working remotely for a Texas-based insurance startup serving Hispanic communities. Working East Coast hours from Spain meant functioning from 3 PM to midnight local time – a schedule that, while worth it initially, eventually highlighted the challenge of building meaningful connections when your rhythms are out of sync with everyone around you.

Now settled in New Albany, Katie has created a life that blends her international perspective with Midwestern community values. Working from BrickHouse Blue coworking space and teaching Legree fitness and yoga at a local studio, she's found the walkable neighborhood culture reminiscent of what she loved in Spain, while appreciating the logistical ease of life back in the States.

What makes Katie's story particularly remarkable is her kidney donation to her brother three years ago. Having watched him undergo dialysis and knowing the physical and mental challenges involved, she committed to a life-altering decision that gave her profound perspective on health and wellness. "The fact that your body can do all of this is incredible," she reflects, noting how her remaining kidney expanded by 70% to compensate for the donation – a powerful reminder that fitness isn't about aesthetics but capability and longevity.

From baking elaborate wedding cakes to churning her own butter, teaching fitness classes to managing finances for a growing startup, Katie embodies the rich possibilities that emerge when you embrace diverse experiences and communities. Her story reminds us that sometimes the path with more resistance leads to the most rewarding outcomes.

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What happens when the final out is called on your high school baseball career? Four graduating seniors from New Albany's baseball team take us behind the scenes of their remarkable journey to the state semifinals. Jacob Richardson (second base), Brandon Pettinger (DH/first base), Trey Wentz (pitcher), and Tanner Hamilton-Ekinger (pitcher/shortstop) bring us into their world with candid reflections on a season that ended in controversy.

The conversation opens with the elephant in the room—that disputed catch in right field during their state semifinal match against Amherst Steele. "Quinn made like a great play and it was one of the best catches I've ever seen," recalls one player, still processing how that pivotal moment changed their championship aspirations. But rather than dwelling on what could have been, these young men quickly pivot to celebrate what was—a stellar 19-11 season marked by resilience, growth, and unforgettable memories.

Their insights extend far beyond game recaps. The players offer wisdom that only comes from living through the intense pressure of high-level high school sports: "Nobody cares about stats—we're just trying to win every game." They discuss how injuries created opportunities for younger players, their regional championship victory against Big Walnut (where they were considered underdogs), and the strange feeling of baseball ending after playing year-round since childhood. For some, like Tanner who's recovering from Tommy John surgery, the journey continues in college baseball. For others, their competitive playing days have concluded.

What stands out most is their perspective on youth development. Having progressed through New Albany's baseball program from little league to varsity success, they offer advice that parents and young players should hear: "Continue to try your best to have fun, no matter how competitive stuff gets" and "Don't worry about outside noise...worry about yourself and how you improve." Listen now for an authentic glimpse into the lessons learned both on and off the diamond, and how these experiences have prepared four remarkable young men for whatever comes next.

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Mario Jordan sits across from me with a quiet confidence that belies his youth. Having just graduated from New Albany High School, this young man has already accumulated more life experience than many twice his age.

Our conversation reveals an extraordinary story of adaptation and perseverance. After transferring from Columbus City Schools as a freshman, Mario faced the challenge of catching up to New Albany's advanced academic standards while simultaneously competing in national karate tournaments. "Columbus city schools are down here and Albany was like up here," he explains, gesturing the difference with his hands. Rather than becoming overwhelmed, he embraced the challenge.

What strikes me most about Mario is his remarkable work ethic. While completing his senior year through an early graduation program, he maintained a 40+ hour work schedule. Even now, he bikes to and from Swensons late at night, working shifts that end at 1:30 AM. When asked about his earnings, he humbly mentions helping his mom with rent "even though she don't need the help" and saving the rest.

Beyond his academic and professional accomplishments, Mario's perspective on socioeconomic differences is refreshingly mature. When navigating New Albany's diverse economic landscape, he shares his internal dialogue: "In my head I put all these kids are like me. There's not rich kids here, they're all like me." This mindset allowed him to form genuine connections across perceived barriers.

Looking ahead, Mario has thoughtfully evaluated several career paths before settling on a plumbing apprenticeship. His systematic elimination of underwater welding, firefighting, and military service shows a pragmatic approach to career planning that many adults still struggle with.

Mario's story isn't just about overcoming adversity—it's about maintaining perspective, working diligently toward goals, and finding your path regardless of where you start. If his approach to high school is any indication, this young man's future holds tremendous promise.

Have a graduate with an inspiring story? Reach out to be featured on an upcoming episode of White Fence Living.

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