Have you ever been in the room when a negative comment leaves someone else’s lips sounding like, “Cleveland is the mistake on the Lake,” or “There is really nothing special about Cleveland”? 

Hurts your heart a bit, right?

Engage! Cleveland knows the importance of celebrating Cleveland, and how a good reputation can drive attraction and retention of the next generation of Clevelanders. 

According to the 2023 State of the Young Professional Community Report (SYPCR), a survey Engage! Cleveland conducts bi-annually to get a finger on the pulse of the early to mid-career professional community in Cleveland, a whopping 91% of respondents had a positive view of Cleveland, but only 27% of those respondents said they were “cheerleaders” of Cleveland, with the remaining respondents being passive, or negative. 

To shine a spotlight on the Clevelanders who are actively making a difference in our community, we’re excited to start sharing their stories—aiming to challenge and change the current perception.

This month we would like to introduce Delaney Hendershot, born and raised Ohioan, Cleveland sports fan, and local influencer. We chatted with Laney about the reasons she believes Cleveland is the place to be. Read her full story below, and connect with her on social media @laneyintheland and by visiting her website, laneyintheland.com. 

EC: Welcome Delaney, we are happy to chat with you today. Please tell us a little more about yourself. 

DH: Hi! My name is Delaney Hendershot and I am thrilled to speak with you today. I have been living and working in Cleveland for the past seven years, but have lived all over the state. I am a Pet Innovation Manager at The J.M. Smucker Co. 

EC: How would you describe yourself? A Cleveland transplant, boomerang, or life-long resident.

DH: I am a born and raised Ohioan that fell in love with Cleveland when I interned for the Cleveland Browns in Summer 2016. I knew I wanted to call Northeast Ohio home, moved out in 2018, and have loved calling the area home ever since! 

EC: What is it about Cleveland that makes you feel at home here, and why do you choose to live in this city over other places?

DH: Cleveland is gritty, you have to earn everything, but what that translates to is an immense pride for our city. We are loud, loyal, and passionate people and it shows from our food scene, sports love, artistic expression, and even in all the Cleveland shirts! I love being surrounded by people that have so much pride and passion.

EC: Cleveland has a rich history and culture. What part of the city’s history or culture do you connect with most, and how does that shape your view of Cleveland today?  

DH: The Sports. I originally grew up in west-central Ohio and was a Browns fan because my Dad was, but when I went to my first Browns game with him, everything changed. My dream became to work for the Browns and when I did in Summer 2016, I witnessed the Cavs Championship Victory. I was around for the parade. I was glued to my TV for the Indians World Series. I fell in love with the grit and grind and loyalty that are pillars of our Sports Culture. Since I moved here, going to games is one of my favorite things to do with my husband. I love the Browns, Cavs, Guards, and Monsters and the sports culture gives me a sense of community, belonging, and immense pride. 

EC: Can you describe your favorite neighborhood or area in Cleveland? What makes it special to you, and how does it reflect your connection to the city? 

DH: I love the University Circle area; the most condensed square mile of arts and culture in the nation. I love being surrounded by the Cherry Blossoms and beautiful, historic buildings. Being surrounded by the culture of University Circle gives me so much Cleveland pride!

EC: How do you typically spend a weekend in Cleveland? Are there any local events or activities that you never miss?  

DH: My favorite morning run starts with Cleveland Bagel Co and Rising Star in Hingetown. I love going to the Westside Market and getting fresh herbs and loaves of bread for the week before going out to a park (weather permitting). My favorites are Edgewater and the Rocky River Reservation!

EC: In what ways do you celebrate Cleveland—whether through its festivals, local businesses, or other cultural traditions? What’s your personal way of showing love for the city?  

DH: I celebrate Cleveland through advocating on all my social media channels and my website: LaneyInTheLand!

EC: Please detail your current efforts in making Cleveland great. Whether this is in your personal, professional, or civic life. 

DH: I love promoting the city of Cleveland and all it has to offer on my Social Media Channels: @LaneyInTheLand. Additionally, I run a blog all about Ohio that can be found on my website: laneyintheland.com. I am so proud to call Northeast Ohio home and continue to dig my roots deeper!

EC: What would you say to someone who is thinking about moving to Cleveland? What do you think they should know about the city and its people before making the move?  

DH: Take a chance on Cleveland, it will surprise you. I think a lot of people underestimate our city and our region, but I see a land of opportunity, love, pride, and growth! 

EC: What are some ways our audience can engage with you or your work? 

DH: Follow me on Social Media (Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Youtube) at @LaneyInTheLand. Also my blog can be subscribed on my website at laneyintheland.com

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