One Hundred Reasons for Celebration
When I wrote my first publisher letter in May 2018, I dreamed this magazine would become a place where neighbors could discover one another's stories, celebrate local businesses and strengthen the community we all call home. One hundred issues later, I'm incredibly grateful to say that not only has that dream become a reality but also one of the greatest privileges of my career.
We've shared hundreds of stories about entrepreneurs pursuing their passion, nonprofits changing lives, students making a difference and neighbors quietly serving others. Along the way, we've celebrated new businesses, community milestones and moments that remind us why Mason and Deerfield Township are such incredible places to live.
This month's issue is a wonderful reflection of our core mission. You'll meet a remarkable local teen helping shelter dogs find forever homes, discover new ways for families to explore local parks and learn how Mason Eye Center is helping children protect their vision long term. We also take you behind the scenes of the magazine, introducing the talented team whose passion has brought 100 issues to life and celebrating several of our founding advertising partners through our new 100 Club.
This milestone belongs to so many people. Thank you to our advertising partners who have believed in local storytelling and invested in this publication, some since our very first issue. A special thank you goes to our Editor, Amanda Stout, who has led our editorial team since early 2019. Her creativity, thoughtful storytelling and steady leadership have helped shape every issue and have been instrumental in the magazine's success. Thank you to our talented writers, photographers, designers and contributors whose creativity fills these pages every month. Most importantly, thank you to you, our readers, for welcoming us into your homes issue after issue and for continually sharing the stories that deserve to be told.
As I opened the very first box of magazines back in 2018, I never imagined where this journey would lead. Today, opening our 100th issue is just as exciting because I know these pages represent so much more than a magazine. They represent thousands of conversations, countless acts of kindness, local dreams brought to life and a community that continues to inspire us month after month.
It has truly been an honor to tell your stories. Thank you for making the first 100 issues possible. We can't wait to share the next 100!
MARK ANDREA, PUBLISHER
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Mark Andrea | mark.andrea@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amanda Stout | amanda.stout@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Karen Andrea
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nina Weierman, Jonathan Stout, Lisa Fletcher, Amanda Stout
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jenna Beers–Photography By Jenna, Kelly Settle–Kelly Ann Photography, Niki Wise Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.
With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.
Weekly meal prep is delivered to your door in Mason and surrounding areas.
Meals are Whole 30 approved.
No prep work involved, just reheat.
Other dietary accommodations can be made. We offer homemade soups and salads in addition to meals.
city scene
1: Mason Deerfield Rotary Club held their 30th Annual Charity Golf Classic at Four Bridges Country Club. 2: Bob Ochs, third from left, title sponsor from Blue Ash Industrial Supply. 3: The beautiful day was enjoyed by 108 golfers who raised funds for local initiatives. 4: The community gathered for a ribbon cutting at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in June. 5: Jellystone is a glamping vacation destination near Kings Island with activities for the whole family. 6: The MADE community held their Paint the Town Red Annual Lunch at Great Wolf Lodge. 7: People’s Choice Award winner, Sonder Brewing.
AMY HAAKE
AMY HAAKE
AMY HAAKE
MADE CHAMBER MADE
Brent Thomas Renovations creates beautiful, functional spaces with custom cabinetry built locally and renovations managed from concept to completion. Contact us today to start your transformation journey! www.brentthomasrenovations.com |
winner,
Mile returned on June 6 and June 20.
explored a vibrant market featuring locally grown produce, handmade goods and delicious prepared foods. 11: Summer camp at
School for Creative Tots was full of learning, laughter and memories. 12: Creative Tots campers enjoyed hands-on projects, outdoor adventures and imaginative weekly themes. 13: Under the Sun performed at the Sounds of Deerfield Concert Series on June 25. 14: Deerfield Township and The Arts Alliance brought the community together for this family-friendly event series.
8: MADE Chamber Paint the Town Red Award
Salt & Soul Wellness. 9: Mason’s Market on the
10: Attendees
Mason's
MADE CHAMBER
MADE CHAMBER
MADE CHAMBER
CREATIVE TOTS
CREATIVE TOTS
CARY JODICE PHOTOGRAPHY
CARY JODICE PHOTOGRAPHY
business monthly
Knudsen Wealth Planning Joins Raymond James in Downtown Mason
Dianna Knudsen has joined Raymond James as a Certified Financial Planner™, proudly serving the Mason and Deerfield communities. Knudsen Wealth Planning is in downtown Mason. Joining her is Lisa Ihrig, Senior Client Associate, who has been a valued part of her team for over five years. As a member of the Mason community for nine years, Dianna looks forward to continuing to help clients pursue their financial goals with personalized advice and thoughtful planning. RaymondJames.com/KnudsenWP
Scan to read more
MADE Chamber Women Impacting MasonDeerfield: She Builds Voice
Join the MADE Chamber for Women Impacting Mason-Deerfield: She Builds Voice on Sept. 3 for a morning of inspiration, connection and conversation. Hear from local leaders Michele Bailes (Broken Bus), Fatemeh Hajihosseini (Women Walking West) and Casey Moran (Comet Cupboard) as they share how they’ve used their voices to create positive change in the community. Enjoy breakfast, networking and leadership insights. Men and women are encouraged to attend. Learn more at MADEChamber.org
Deerfield Township Welcomes Ashes to Iron Fitness
Deerfield Township Trustees welcome Ashes to Iron Fitness to the community. Owners Katie and Craig McCarty both grew up in Landen, and they're proud to call Deerfield the home of their new business. Ashes to Iron is a functional fitness gym that offers personal training, fitness classes and small group training. A large crowd of family, friends and clients joined them for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the grand opening of this impressive facility. Ashes-to-Iron.com
Photography by Dianna Knudsen
Photography by MADE Chamber
Photography Provided by Deerfield Township Economic Development Office
ARTICLE BY NINA WEIERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIKI WISE PHOTOGRAPHY
FETCHING Futures
Meet the Mason teen helping shelter dogs find forever homes, one run at a time.
At the young age of 14, Gio Gilpin is already making a difference in the world. Inspired by the adoption of his family’s shelter dog, Muffin, Gio created the Instagram account @FetchingFutures to highlight adoptable dogs from local shelters through photos, videos and observations gathered during weekly walks and runs.
“It made me sad to think there were other dogs like Muffin stuck in kennels, waiting for their turn,” says Gio. “We saw Muffin’s happiness and his personality after months of taking care of him. I knew that he was just one dog that got lucky, and there were so many more waiting to be adopted.”
Muffin, a Bernedoodle, was confined to a cage and could barely walk when he joined the Gilpin family. His transformation inspired Gio to help other dogs have the same opportunity to find homes and heal.
“People always seem to choose little puppies or ’cute' dogs, but every dog deserves to have a family,” explains Gio. “It's like choosing a friend. You don’t choose a friend because they are tall or strong; you choose a friend because they are nice and you like to hang out with them.”
Every Saturday after swim practice, Gio and his mother head to the Humane Association of Warren County, where they walk and run with two to three shelter dogs on the trail around the facility. The outings provide exercise and socialization for the animals, but they also give Gio a chance to learn more about each dog's personality.
"We see if they are friendly, if they like kids, if loud noises scare them or if they just want belly rubs," Gio shares. "We get to see a lot of their personality that people sometimes miss inside the shelter, and it's amazing to see how calm and happy they are when they come back to the kennel.”
The commitment requires time, patience and consistency, qualities that Gio has developed through years of competitive athletics. A swimmer, runner and triathlete, he says his athletic background has helped make Fetching Futures possible.
"Sports teach you to keep showing up," Gio notes. "You don't always get it right the first time. We keep trying, and we keep showing up regardless of the weather."
That determination has not gone unnoticed by the coaches who know him best.
"Gio is a quiet leader who works extremely hard to achieve his goals," Mason Manta Rays swim coach Kevin Rachal tells us. "He is kind and supportive to all of his teammates."
Cross-country coach Wayne Wheeler agrees.
"He is a giver, kindhearted and wants to help," Wayne states. "Gio has found his sweet spot, identifying a need and serving while running."
For Gio, those traits extend far beyond athletics. They are on full display each Saturday at the shelter, where simple acts of kindness can sometimes change the course of a dog's life.
“Impact does not have to be loud. It just has to be consistent. I don't have to speak the loudest or have thousands of followers.”
— Gio Gilpin
Through his walks, runs and social media posts, Gio has helped potential adopters learn more about dogs they might otherwise have overlooked. In some cases, families have met a dog immediately after one of Gio's outings and decided to bring them home.
What has surprised him most is not the number of followers Fetching Futures has gained, but the realization that meaningful change does not have to come from grand gestures.
"Impact does not have to be loud. It just has to be consistent," Gio expresses. "I don't have to speak the loudest or have thousands of followers. I know I'm helping my community."
Looking ahead, Gio hopes to expand his efforts by creating resources that help families better understand dog training and pet ownership. For now, he plans to keep doing what he does every Saturday: lacing up his running shoes, grabbing a leash and helping shelter dogs find their futures. Instagram: @FetchingFutures
NEW
IN NATURE
Three area parks offer local families upgraded outdoor experiences.
ARTICLE
BY
JONATHAN
STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA STOUT + PROVIDED
As we inch closer to the end of summer, it’s the perfect time to visit the wonderful local parks in our area with our families and furry pals. In addition to the amenities they already offer, three local parks have recently undergone exciting updates, providing visitors with opportunities for new experiences.
Keever Trails Park, part of the Warren County Park District, includes new trail markers and directional medallions placed throughout the trail system to help visitors understand where they are, navigate the park and enjoy the trails. These medallions were added as part of an Eagle Scout project completed by Kings High School graduate Dustin Minick of Troop 21.
Roberts Park in Deerfield Township recently added a nature playscape alongside extensive existing trails and nature conservation areas. This one-of-a-kind playground blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of Roberts Park. It features logs, water elements and natural formations that invite kids of all ages to climb, explore and experience the outdoors in a whole new way.
The USS Cincinnati Submarine Memorial Peace Pavilion at Voice of America Park in West Chester Township features a full-size, walk-through submarine replica alongside original sections of the former USS Cincinnati Submarine. There are also informative kiosks explaining submarine operations, major equipment and the science behind how the submarine functioned in ocean water.
3. USS CINCINNATI SUBMARINE
Eagle Scout Dustin Minick with one of the new trail markers he installed. Photo provided by the Warren County Park District.
ARTICLE BY
Early detection and simple habits can protect children’s vision long term.
HELPING KIDS SEE A BRIGHTER TOMORROW
It starts innocently enough. A child moves closer to the television, squints at the classroom board or complains of a headache after school. Many parents assume it’s time for glasses.
Increasingly, eye doctors are seeing a rise in childhood myopia, or nearsightedness, with implications that go beyond a stronger prescription.
"Myopia usually arises when the eye grows too long, causing an image to focus before it reaches the retina," explains optometrist Dr. Ted Snyder, owner of Mason Eye Center and a pediatric eye care specialist for more than 30 years.
The condition is more common today. While about 30% of the population is affected, experts predict that the number could reach nearly 50% by 2050.
Although genetics plays a role, Dr. Snyder shares that screen-heavy lifestyles are also contributing to the rise in childhood myopia. More time indoors and increased use of computers, phones and other digital devices may be affecting children’s vision.
Dr. Snyder encourages parents to watch for signs such as squinting at the clock, television or classroom board, as well as frequent headaches.
"The earlier we catch it, the earlier we can slow it down or prevent it," he notes.
Fortunately, new options are helping eye care professionals manage myopia in ways not available a decade ago. Mason Eye Center offers three approaches to slow progression.
1. Low-dose atropine eye drops: slow the elongation of the eye.
2. Stellest lenses: specialized spectacle lens that redirects light entering the eye.
3. MiSight daily disposable contact lenses: designed to slow progression while correcting vision.
According to Dr. Snyder, optimal treatment varies by age, lifestyle and level of nearsightedness. Families can protect children’s vision by limiting recreational screen time and encouraging two hours of daily outdoor time. He also recommends the 20-20-20 rule: every
20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to rest the eyes during close-up work.
Beyond improving vision today, myopia management may help protect children’s eye health for decades. High myopia can increase the risk of serious conditions later in life, including retinal detachment and other degenerative eye diseases. By identifying nearsightedness early and slowing progression, parents may help safeguard future vision.
For Dr. Snyder, one of the most important steps is also the simplest: regular eye exams.
"Kids do not have an understanding of when their vision is not normal," he says. “Early detection is key.”
A few extra minutes in the exam chair today can make a lasting difference in how a child sees the world tomorrow. MasonEyeCenter.com
Celebrating the First 100 Club
Why did you become a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner?
We had already created a solid partnership with West Chester + Liberty Lifestyle, and we saw an opportunity to expand our reach and connect with more people in nearby communities.
Share a positive experience your business has had related to advertising or editorial.
Working with Mark and his team has been a great experience. They do a wonderful job of really staying connected to the Mason and Deerfield Township communities.
Tell us about any significant milestones you’ve achieved since becoming a partner.
Since starting our partnership with Mason and Deerfield Lifestyle, I have become a mother, which is an incredibly rewarding experience. I’ve been able to do and handle more things than I ever thought were possible. (Editor’s Note: Kara welcomed her second child in June. Congratulations to Kara and the Lyons’ family!)
Share something new about your business that you would like readers to know.
Our business and practice have continued to grow every year. We’ve recently added a new attorney, Kristen Campbell, who brings over 25 years of experience to our clients.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA BEERS–PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA
Why did you become a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner?
Lindner Center of Hope became a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner to share our mission and story with our community neighbors and to increase awareness of mental health issues, helping educate and reduce stigma.
Share a positive experience your business has had related to advertising or editorial.
In August 2018, Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle featured Lindner Center of Hope in an article titled “A Place for Hope.” The feature helped demystify what existed down the lane off of Old Western Row Road while shedding light on the growing mental health challenges facing our community. It also introduced readers to our compassionate approach and comprehensive continuum of mental health services designed to be a soft place to land for those in need.
Tell us about any significant milestones you’ve achieved since becoming a partner.
Since becoming a partner, we have continued to see growing demand for services, expansion of providers and now the growth of our campus itself.
“Lindner Center of Hope became a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner to share our mission and story with our community neighbors and to increase awareness of mental health issues, helping educate and reduce stigma.” “
Lindner Center of Hope continues to evolve to meet the mental health needs of the community— not only locally but regionally, nationally and internationally.
Share something new about your business that you would like readers to know.
Lindner Center of Hope is in the midst of its largest expansion project since opening in 2008. This project represents a significant step forward as we continue to grow to meet both the mental health needs in our community and the national demand for sophisticated mental health diagnostic assessment and treatment services. This expansion reflects a simple truth: mental health care is not a luxury—it is a necessity.
JENNIFER PIERSON
LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE LINDNERCENTEROFHOPE.ORG
TIFFANY ALLEN-ZEUCH
Why did you become a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner?
I originally became a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner because I believe in supporting and connecting with the community where I live and work. As a Mason resident, I have a personal investment in the area’s success and enjoy helping showcase everything that makes Mason and Deerfield Township such great places to call home.
Having sold real estate in the area since 2002, I have had the opportunity to help hundreds of families buy and sell homes while watching our community grow and thrive. Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle provides a unique way to stay connected with residents, share local stories, highlight businesses and provide valuable real estate insights.
Share a positive experience your business has had related to advertising or editorial.
Having my listings consistently showcased in a publication that reaches local homeowners and prospective buyers has increased awareness of available homes and generated conversations that have led to real estate opportunities. It has been a valuable way to market both my business and my clients’ properties while maintaining a strong presence in the Mason community.
Tell us about any significant milestones you’ve achieved since becoming a partner.
In 2023, I was honored to be named Realtor of the Year by the Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (RAGC), a recognition that reflects my commitment to serving my clients, colleagues and community. More recently, I reached a career milestone of selling my 1,000th home. This accomplishment represents years of dedication, strong client relationships and the trust that buyers and sellers have placed in me throughout my real estate career.
Share something new about your business that you would like readers to know.
I recently celebrated my 24th anniversary in real estate, and I am still passionate about helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals throughout the northern Cincinnati suburbs. As a Mason resident with an office conveniently located at VOA, I have both a personal and professional connection to the communities I serve. Whether working with first-time buyers, growing families or longtime homeowners, I am committed to providing personalized service and expert guidance.
RICK BOYLE
CREATIVE
Why did you become a Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle partner?
We saw it as a great way to connect with the community we serve every day. As a local business, relationships matter, and the magazine has done an excellent job of highlighting the people, businesses and organizations that make Mason and Deerfield Township special.
Over the years, we’ve built friendships and connections through the magazine and helped celebrate local businesses and community success stories. It’s hard to believe we are talking about the 100th issue! We’ve enjoyed watching the magazine become a staple in the community.
Share a positive experience your business has had related to advertising or editorial.
People often recognize Creative Contracting because they’ve seen us in the magazine. Sometimes it’s a customer, sometimes it’s someone at a community event and sometimes it’s a conversation that starts with, “I see your ad every month.” The magazine helps keep us top of mind, but more importantly, it has helped people get to know us. The editorial opportunities have allowed us to share our story, our values and the work we’re doing in the community in a way that goes beyond a typical advertisement.
Tell us about any significant milestones you’ve achieved since becoming a partner.
We’ve continued to grow Creative Contracting, expand our services and complete projects that we are very proud of. One of our most meaningful developments is getting involved in programs that support workforce development and skilled trades education. I’m passionate about helping young people discover opportunities in the trades and showing them the rewarding career paths they may not have previously considered.
Share something new about your business that you would like readers to know.
At Creative Contracting, we remain committed to what we’ve always done—helping our clients bring their remodeling projects to life with quality workmanship, strong communication and a focus on relationships. At the same time, we are investing time and energy into helping address the skilled trades workforce shortage by creating opportunities for students to explore hands-on careers. We’re proud to be part of this community and excited about what the future holds.
CONTRACTING CREATIVE-SBC.COM All photos taken at the MADE HUB for Manufacturing.
IT TAKES A TEAM
MEET THE TEAM BEHIND 100 ISSUES HIGHLIGHTING THE POSITIVE STORIES OF OUR COMMUNITY.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY SETTLE–KELLY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY
In an increasingly global world, focusing locally feels deeply meaningful. It allows us to learn about neighbors starting nonprofits at their kitchen tables, small businesses born in basements, and stories of triumph over adversity. Exploring our own backyard is an opportunity to discover something new and celebrate the milestones of the people and community we call home.
At Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle, we have a milestone of our own to celebrate. We’ve highlighted the local stories of the everyday people and places that touch our lives for 100 issues! And we couldn’t have done it without the business partners who support the magazine, the community who share their stories and our team who make it all come to life on our pages month after month.
MARK ANDREA: PUBLISHER + LOCAL FRANCHISE OWNER
Opening the box of new issues every month is an experience that never gets old. It’s so gratifying to hear from our advertisers who have landed a new sale, nonprofits whose awareness increased after their story was published, or simply "Hey Mark, we loved this month's issue!" It’s rewarding to know we are making an impact, and that empowers us to keep going. Recently, I heard from a nonprofit that is still getting donations from a story published four years ago!
CONTINUED >
Publisher + Local Franchise Owner: Mark Andrea Editor + Writer: Amanda Stout
AMANDA STOUT: EDITOR + WRITER
I love collaborating with talented people and helping their work shine. It sounds cliché, but the people truly are the best part—from my colleagues and the partners who make it all possible to the community members whose stories we share. People rarely get the chance to have their stories told, and with fewer local news outlets, I value the opportunity to highlight real people making a difference.
KAREN ANDREA: COPY EDITOR + WRITER
In 100 issues, there have been so many incredible stories! In addition to proofreading every issue, I’ve enjoyed writing about some of Mason’s amazing nonprofits and charities: Angel Alley, Live Like Maya, Shine Like Sable and Common Ground Playground. Two additional stories that touched my heart were about Margo Straus, a 107-year-old Holocaust survivor, and Cody Vernon, who restores veterans’ headstones in our local cemeteries.
From Left to Right: Writers: Lisa Fletcher and Nina Weierman
From Left to Right: Photographers: Jenna Beers, Mark Lyons, Cathy Lyons, Niki Wise (not pictured)
From Left to Right: Social Media Manager: Natalie Strom; Anchor Content Coordinator + Writer: Jonathan Stout; Copy Editor + Writer: Karen Andrea
SAVOR A CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Fall Registration Begins August 26 at 10 a.m. All of our classes feature
JONATHAN STOUT: ANCHOR CONTENT
COORDINATOR + WRITER
I enjoy learning about exciting local developments and meeting the people behind them. I've been lucky to interview and write about a wide variety of movers and shakers within the community, including Badges Drum Shop, Hey Suburbia Records, Mavericks Cards, S.W. Clyborne Co. Provision & Spirits, Luke5Adventures…too many to name!
NATALIE STROM: SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
A favorite experience was spending about a week visiting our advertising partners at their businesses to create social media content. I was blown away by how welcoming everyone was. While I didn’t grow up in Mason, I’ll always appreciate that working with this magazine has made me feel like a genuine part of the community.
WRITERS: NINA WEIERMAN + LISA FLETCHER
Nina: I love learning about the extraordinary people who live and work in our community. I feel honored to help tell their stories. I enjoyed spending time with the women behind Love Cakes at Dorothy Lane Market in Mason. Interviewing them onsite and seeing them in action was a special experience.
Lisa: The feature on Dan Rebella, "The Marathon Man,” is one of my favorite stories. His journey was remarkable, and I enjoyed learning what motivated him to keep pushing toward new goals. Writing that story was a reminder that some of the most interesting and inspiring people are right here in our own community.
PHOTOGRAPHERS: CATHY + MARK LYONS, JENNA BEERS, NIKI WISE (NOT PICTURED)
Jenna: I've met so many inspiring, talented and kind individuals through the magazine. Every photo session is an opportunity to hear someone's story, learn something new and connect with people I may never have met otherwise. I feel incredibly fortunate to capture these community members from all walks of life doing what they love.
Mark: I enjoy working with great folks, meeting new and interesting people in the community and learning more about their stories.
Cathy: I treasure the opportunity to be creative with light, subjects, moments, etc. I love the thrill of possibility. No matter the assignment, I believe the best stories and most meaningful experiences can be found in your own backyard. The Mason and Deerfield communities are the best!
Cheers to 100 Issues and the team, partners and community stories that made it possible!
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 8TH, 15TH, 22ND, & 29TH
Deerfield Farmers’ Market
Kingswood Park - Community Pavilion | 9:00 AM
The Deerfield Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. - noon at the Kingswood Park Pavilion. As a proud growers-only market, vendors only sell what they grow or make. Items for sale include pasture-raised beef, pork and chicken, free-range eggs, seasonal produce, baked goods and more. Find details about vendors and more at DeerfieldFarmersMarket.com
AUGUST 8TH - 23RD
Cincinnati Open Tennis Tournament and Community Weekend
Lindner Family Tennis Center | 9:00 AM
The Cincinnati Open is starting early for Community Weekend, a two-day celebration with events on Aug. 8–9. The family-friendly weekend of activities will precede tournament match play, which begins Tuesday, Aug. 11, at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason. For tickets and tournament schedule, visit CincinnatiOpen.com
AUGUST 11TH
Tech-Free Tuesday: Orienteering Cincinnati and Fishing
Armco Park: Shelter 30 | 12:00 PM
Go on a free adventure and fish with the naturalists of Orienteering Cincinnati on Aug. 11. There will be many activities, crafts and opportunities to explore the park. All children must have a responsible grown-up with them at all times and bring a pole or borrow one. Bait is provided and preregistration is encouraged; however, walk-ups will be accepted. WarrenCountyParks.com
AUGUST 15TH
Sounds of Deerfield
The District at Deerfield Park | 7:00 PM
Deerfield Township and the Arts Alliance have partnered to bring a fantastic performing arts series featuring the best of local talent. On Aug. 15, you can enjoy a free, family-friendly concert with the Michelle Robinson Band at the District at Deerfield Park. Purchase and enjoy food and beverages from one of the District businesses while you enjoy the music! DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com
AUGUST 22ND
Powder Keg 5K Trail Run
Carter Park | 9:00 AM
The Powder Keg Trail Run, the sixth event of the Dirt Days Trail Series, will be held at Carter Park on Aug. 22. The course will be fun and challenging. The race distance is listed as 3.5 miles and runners will do a loop that will take them near the Little Miami River. A portion of the proceeds benefits The Arts Alliance. DeerfieldOh.MyRec.com
AUGUST 29TH
ARTFest on Main
S. Main Street, Springboro | 10:00 AM
ARTFest on Main will take place on Aug. 29 in Springboro, featuring fine art from over 100 artists as well as music, entertainment and a children's tent. The festival offers food and drink vendors and the Dinner on Main fundraising event. ARTFest is free, pet friendly and held rain or shine. More information can be found at ArtFestOnMain.com.
Riverside Drive
Cross Creek Lane
Excellent condition in desirable Carmelle! This spacious home offers over 4,900 sq. ft. with a gourmet kitchen featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, large pantry, and abundant cabinetry open to the family room. Luxurious primary suite, generous secondary bedrooms, and a finished walkout lower level with rec room, full bath, and ample storage. Enjoy the private, tree-lined backyard plus HOA pool and amenities in a convenient location near shopping, dining, and highways.
Excellent condition custom ranch on .92 acres in desirable Woods of Logsdon! Freshly painted throughout in 2026, this move-in ready home features a great room with built-ins and fireplace, hardwood floors, a four-season room, and covered deck overlooking a private wooded backyard. Flexible first-floor study, oversized garage, and finished walkout lower level with wet bar, full bath, rec room, and abundant storage. New roof (2023). HOA includes a community pool. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and Liberty Center.
TIFFANY ALLEN-ZEUCH
“Tiffany showed extensive knowledge with the homes on the market in our area that we would be competing against. Her marketing strategy blew me away. She is committed to selling quickly. She was excellent with
“We highly recommend Tiffany Allen-Zeuch! She was extremely knowledgeable about the market and relocation policies, and helped us price our home just right. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and friendly nature made the process smooth and stress-free. She’s also a skilled negotiator who truly had our best interests in mind. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!”
~ Eusebia M.
— Yvonne G.
