Episodes

In this episode, Ben interviews Danielle Keperling. As the Executive Director of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County and with over two decades of experience in the preservation industry, Danielle brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our conversation. With a Masters of Business Administration degree from Eastern University, Danielle's unique blend of business acumen and passion for preservation shines through in her work. Alongside her husband, Jonathan, she works at the...

In this episode of Lancaster Connects, Ben and Jeff interviews Valonda Banks, a professional with nearly three decades of experience in the field of hiring. But Valonda is much more than just a hiring expert; she brings a delightful sense of humor and warmth to every aspect of her life. Married to the self-proclaimed 'funniest human on the planet,' she shares her life with a loving family that includes a young daughter in grade school and a grown son who is not only married but also a parent hi...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff are delighted to speak with Kristen Richards, the passionate owner of Front Porch Baking Co., a grain-forward neighborhood bakery nestled in Millersville, PA. Kristen's bakery isn't just about crafting delicious breads and pastries; it's a heartfelt mission to nourish Lancaster County while promoting education, sourcing locally in the Mid-Atlantic region, and fostering meaningful connections with customers. Kristen's journey into the world of baking was deeply infl...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff interview Glenn J. Smith, the Founder of Brewery Tours, a company that has been making waves in the craft beer tourism industry for over three decades. Glenn's passion for small, independent craft breweries has taken him on a remarkable journey, where he's been able to immerse himself in the world of craft beer, learn from brewers, and share these experiences with enthusiasts and novices alike. In 2017, Glenn leveraged his wealth of knowledge and experience to esta...

Lin Weaver is an Owner and CEO at Shady Maple Companies. These business interests include a Farmers Market/Supermarket, Smorgasbord/gift shop, RV dealership, Houston Run Development, and Weaver Realty Investment Properties. He has over 35 years’ experience working and growing the businesses at Shady Maple in all the different entities. He has been part of the Shady Maple team that grew the company into the largest Supermarket in Pa. and the largest buffet in the USA. Lastly he is an entrepreneur...

Lancaster Gift Box makes it easy to share a luxurious Taste of Lancaster County with friends and clients nationwide. With a steadfast commitment to supporting local food producers and makers, Lancaster Gift Box curates signature gift boxes that capture the local flavors of Lancaster County. Deliver joy to the people in your life, both personally and professionally with Lancaster Gift Box, your local, gifting specialists! | Corporate Gifting Specialists.

This episode features Amanda Reilly-Sokoli and Pashk Sokoli. Co-founders of Pennsylvania Furniture Mission. Pashk and Amanda always knew they had a passion for making a difference in the lives of others. After meeting in Albania in 2014, a combination of cultures, languages, and experiences brought them together - enhancing their lives ever since. They lived in Chicago, experiencing the challenges of living and working on the south side of the city. They recognized their desire to serve others ...

In this heartfelt episode, we are joined by a remarkable guest, Luke Liberty, who has an extraordinary and deeply inspiring life story. Luke, as he describes it, was "made in Vietnam but assembled by Americans." Born in 1969 during the Vietnam War, his early years were marked by a remarkable journey of survival and resilience. His mother led their escape from Saigon to the sea, where they eventually boarded a fishing boat, only to be rescued by the US Navy in international waters. Luke's voyage ...

This episode features Robin D. Stauffer, a distinguished figure who has dedicated over three decades to High®, a diverse and dynamic organization headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Her impressive journey within High spans multiple businesses, ranging from steel fabrication to real estate development. As the Executive Director of the High Foundation, Robin's mission is to drive constructive change within areas of identified need, with a focus on eradicating poverty in Lancaster County and ...

This episode features Kelly Osborne, a volunteer with the Pilot Club of Lancaster and serves currently as the President Elect. The Pilot Club of Lancaster is a volunteer service club that was established in Lancaster County in 1947. PCOL was instrumental in launching the Meals on Wheels program in Lancaster in 1967 and still continues to support the program through volunteer deliveries and donations. Pilot Club of Lancaster's signature service program in Project Lifesaver, a search and rescue pr...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff speak with Pam Witwer, the dynamic owner of Lancaster PA Notary, a 24/7 mobile notary service covering 9 Central PA counties. Pam's journey from launching her business in March 2023 to becoming a certified real estate loan closing agent, living trust delivery agent, and apostille agent is truly remarkable. But Pam's story goes beyond her professional achievements. With nearly three decades of experience in state government, Pam brings a wealth of dedication and com...

Join Karen King and the SCORE Professional Women's Network for a high-energy and hands-on experience where you will learn how to develop intentional goals for your professional and personal life. This workshop will occur on Thursday, October 12, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Lancaster Chamber (115 E. King Street) in Rooms 2E & 2F. Light fare and refreshments will be provided.

Homefields is an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to creating new life options for people who have disabilities. Six adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities live on a 19-acre property in Millersville, PA, in a modern ranch house and 1800s farmhouse. Hundreds of people who have disabilities or other barriers to traditional employment have engaged at Homefields Care Farm, growing chemical-free produce for community shareholders for 30 years. Join the fun at their Pi...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff speak with Jeff Rutt, the President and CEO of Keystone Custom Homes, a company that has constructed over 9,000 homes in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Keystone Custom Homes is a three-time recipient of Builder Magazine's and the National Association of Homebuilders' prestigious "America's Best Home Builder Award" and has been named "Business of the Year" by Central Penn Business Journal. Jeff's achievements as an exceptional builder are further exemplified by his recei...

This episode is a heartwarming story of resilience, faith, and community building. Ben and Jeff are joined by Eric and Tanya Newcomer, a remarkable couple who turned challenges into opportunities, transforming a rundown bar into a thriving faith-based coffee shop and cafe. Eric and Tanya grew up in East Berlin and the Spring Grove areas. They've not only embraced a 20-year marriage and raised three wonderful children but also embarked on an inspiring renovation project that took an unexpected tu...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff speak with Jona Green, a full-time financial advisor and the dedicated volunteer president of the Southern Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce. The chamber serves to connect 200 plus members in business and non-profit organizations. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone interested in understanding the relationship between finance and community development, this episode has something for you. Gain valuable insights, a...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff speak with Tom Zimmerman, a lifelong resident of central Pennsylvania. Tom's story is one of service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Tom's career spanned over three decades at EBG Resistors, LLC, where he navigated sales, engineering, and leadership roles. His contribution to this successful multinational business start-up played a pivotal role in supplying high-voltage, high-powered niche resistors to industries such as military...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff meet with David Lapp, a remarkable individual and an inspiring journey of faith and service. Growing up in a large Amish family in New Holland, PA, David and his family moved to a dairy farm in Indiana during his early teens and in 2006, he moved his own growing family back to Lancaster, PA. David is one of the founders of Blessings of Hope and served on the board for six years as treasurer. Then in 2018, David stepped into the role of CEO, allowing Aaron to focus ...

This episode features two remarkable guests who have made significant contributions to their communities through their passions and expertise. Our first guest is Chef Oliver Saye, a seasoned culinary expert with over 30 years of experience in the food service industry. Hailing from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Chef's journey has taken him from the world of fine dining to retirement communities and not-for-profit organizations. In 2017, he embarked on a new venture, establishing his priv...

In this episode, Ben interviews Matt Neff, a devoted child of God, a loving husband, and a devoted father to his children. Matt's mission in life is to delve deep into the oneness of God and share this truth with the world, embodying clarity, love, and humility in all that he does. Having studied at Rhema Bible College, Matt's journey in leadership spans over 25 years, primarily centered around his incredible work with Sight & Sound Ministries. Through this organization, Matt has touched countl...

In this episode, Jeff interviews Marlyn Barbosa, the Director at Tec Centro, a groundbreaking workforce program operating under the Spanish American Civic Association (SACA). Marlyn opens up about the challenges she faced as she moved to a new country with a different language and culture. Discover how she reached out to SACA for support during the transitional phase and became a client in their Job Readiness Program. It wasn't long before Marlyn's dedication and drive landed her a role as a GE...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff speak with Dr. Tracey Jones, a renowned author, speaker, veteran, and international leadership expert. Dr. Tracey Jones wears many hats, serving as the President of Tremendous Leadership and T3 Solutions. She carries on the legacy of her father, the legendary Charlie "Tremendous" Jones, in the insurance and motivational arenas. With a diverse background spanning the military, high tech, defense contracting, and publishing industries, Tracey brings a wealth of knowl...

Still riding high off of the amazing 100th episode, Ben & Jeff discuss their interview with Bret Michaels and share exciting news about ticket & VIP package giveaways for an Bret Michaels at Pardi-Gras 2023 in Central PA. Bret has given the Lancaster Connects community a whopping 40 tickets in total, with 10 pairs reserved for Hometown Heroes and 10 pairs for Veterans, along with a special VIP experience. Submissions are directed to https://LancasterConnects.com to enter the contest by submittin...

So glad you could join us for our biggest episode yet, hometown hero and rockstar Bret Michaels shares his deep connection to Central Pennsylvania. Michaels, who was born and raised in Mechanicsburg, emphasizes the importance of home and the strong work ethic that characterizes the area's residents. Michaels' love for Central PA is evident in his dedication to giving back to the community. He created the Party Gras Tour, which is set to perform at Hollywood Casino on August 26th, as a celebrati...