Keeping It Real with Sharon

Send us Fan Mail Today, I’m sitting down with Tammy LaCroix and Mike Turpin, the visionaries behind Winchester’s new PklPlex. What started as a simple recognition, our community needed an indoor place to play pickleball, turned into something much bigger. Tammy and Mike didn’t just talk about the idea… they took action. From building a business plan to searching tirelessly for the right space, they stayed committed every step of the way. As business partners, they faced challenges, made tough decisions, and refused to give up until they found the perfect fit. In January 2026, their vision officially became a reality and it’s already exceeded expectations. PklPlex has quickly grown into more than just a place to play… it’s become a place to connect. Friendships are forming, community is growing, and the energy around this sport is something special. This episode is all about vision, perseverance, partnership, and what can happen when you create something that truly brings people together.

Send us Fan Mail There’s something powerful about saying “yes” to something that feels big… and a little scary. In this episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Julia Healey as she shares her journey to delivering her very first TEDx talk, Called to Act: One Small Thing. Julia is the CEO of United Charitable and a passionate leader in the nonprofit space, but her path didn’t start there. With a background in finance and a heart for making a difference, Julia made a bold shift into mission-driven work after seeing the gaps in access and opportunity. That decision led her to a bigger purpose… and ultimately, onto the TEDx stage. We talk about what it really takes to step into something new, the courage behind sharing your voice, and how small actions can create meaningful change in our communities. If you’ve ever felt called to do something more, or wondered if one small step could really matter, this conversation will inspire you to take that step.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Steven Shafran, a man with a big heart and a powerful vision for serving others in our community. Steven is bringing a brand-new event to our area called Cast for Kids, an inspiring day designed to connect special needs adults and Veterans with people who simply love to fish. Each participant will be paired with a fishing buddy for a memorable experience on the water and every guest will receive a brand-new fishing pole and tackle box to take home. For Steven, this event is about much more than fishing. It’s about connection, dignity, and creating moments of joy for people who don’t always get opportunities like this. We talk about Steven’s lifelong passion for helping those who may feel overlooked, how this event came to life, and his hope of making Cast for Kids an annual spring tradition that brings our community together. This conversation is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful change begins with one person who simply cares enough to act.

Send a text In this episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Sarah Fishel, the new Executive Director of the Youth Development Center, for an inspiring conversation about vision, leadership, and investing in the next generation. Sarah shares why the move to a new building in the heart of the City of Winchester wasn’t just about location, it was about purpose. By creating a space that is more accessible and welcoming, the Youth Development Center is redefining its mission to better serve the youth of our community. We talk about her passion for getting kids off the streets and off their phones and into real, meaningful connection with one another. From expanded programs to intentional mentorship, Sarah’s goal is to create an environment that inspires growth, confidence, and belonging. But it doesn’t stop with the kids. Sarah also believes deeply in educating and equipping the adults who interact with our youth every day. When the whole community steps up, young people begin to see that being a productive part of their city doesn’t just change their future, it strengthens Winchester for all of us. If you care about our community, our schools, and the next generation, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Send a text What if your pharmacy felt more like family than a number in line? In this episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Corey Boxwell, founder of Boxwell Pharmacy, to talk about his bold decision to open a locally owned pharmacy built on relationships, not transactions. Corey shares why he believes medicine should be personal, why knowing patients by name matters, and how he’s building a culture where every person who walks through the door feels seen and valued. His vision goes beyond prescriptions — he’s creating a community hub that will offer health workshops, collaborative events, and even a thoughtfully curated gift shop inside the pharmacy. This conversation is about courage, community, and reimagining what healthcare can look like when people come first. If you believe business should feel human, you’re going to love this one.

Send us a text What if healthcare felt more personal, more supportive, and truly centered on relationships? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Brianna Berry, who recently opened a Direct Primary Care medical practice, The Village Family Medicine, which offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional, transactional healthcare system. Dr. Berry shares why she’s so passionate about relationship-based primary care for individuals and families, and how her model allows her to truly know her patients, spend meaningful time with them, and focus on whole-person care. We talk about her specialized focus areas, including breastfeeding medicine, mental health services, and her plans to soon add postpartum support services. She also opens up about her personal journey balancing motherhood with the demanding path to earning her medical degree and the vital role her husband played in supporting her every step of the way. This conversation is thoughtful, inspiring, and eye-opening for anyone who has ever felt like healthcare should feel more human. If you’re curious about a better way to care for yourself and your family, this episode is a must-listen.

Send us a text What does it really take to build a TEDx event and why does it matter? In this special behind-the-scenes episode, I’m joined by my co-license holder Suzette Neff as we pull back the curtain on TEDxHandleyBlvd Women and look ahead to our upcoming 2026 event. We share what we learned while attending the TED Next Conference in Atlanta, including powerful insights about storytelling, leadership, and the responsibility that comes with holding a TEDx license. We talk honestly about growth, challenges, and the intentional choices that shape an event designed to encourage conversations and ideas worth spreading in the community. This conversation is part reflection, part vision-casting, and fully rooted in community. If you’ve ever wondered how ideas take shape, how leadership evolves, or what’s next for TEDxHandleyBlvd Women this episode is for you.

Send us a text In this episode of Keeping It Real with Sharon, I sit down with Andy Gail, CEO of United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley, for an inspiring conversation about the power of collaboration and community care. Andy shares the heart behind the United Way’s mission, walking us through the many programs they support and the grants they offer to help strengthen our region. We talk about how local nonprofits don’t work in silos, but instead come together through the United Way to create real, lasting impact for individuals and families across our community. What makes this conversation especially meaningful is Andy’s long-standing commitment to the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Long before stepping into his role as CEO, he carried a deep passion for service and truly understands that when organizations work together, everyone benefits. This episode is a reminder that strong communities aren’t built alone, they’re built through partnership, compassion, and people who genuinely care. A must-listen for anyone who loves this area and wants to better understand how collaboration is shaping a brighter future for all.

Send us a text In this episode of Keeping It Real with Sharon, I’m joined by two amazing women—Sarah Abderrazzaq and Stephanie Ryall—for a fun, heart-filling conversation all about family holiday traditions. Listen as we stroll down memory lane and share the traditions we grew up with, the ones that shaped our childhoods, and the little moments that still make our hearts glow today. From cherished rituals passed down through generations to the new customs we’ve blended into our own families, this episode is all about how traditions evolve as we do. You’ll hear stories of honoring our roots, combining backgrounds, and creating fresh traditions that feel meaningful as adults, along with plenty of laughs and “me too!” moments. If you love the magic of the holidays, the nostalgia of family memories, and the joy of building something new, this episode will make you feel right at home. Grab a cozy drink, settle in, and celebrate the season with us. Let’s get moving into the holidays—together.

Send us a text Welcome to a heartwarming episode where we dive deep into the enchanting world of Christmas and the holidays with the insightful guidance of Father Bjorn Lundberg, Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. Join us as we unwrap the cherished memories of our childhood, exploring the timeless traditions that have shaped our festive seasons. In this soul-stirring conversation, Father Lundberg reflects on the profound significance behind our holiday customs, unraveling the stories and meanings that often get lost in the hustle and bustle. Together, we embark on a journey through the nostalgic lanes of our past, rediscovering the magic that lies within those precious moments. As we explore the beauty of the season, we'll also delve into the extraordinary power it holds to bring people together. Father Lundberg shares profound insights into the unifying spirit of Christmas, emphasizing how it serves as a beacon of hope in our lives. In a world that can often feel divided, the holiday season acts as a powerful force, fostering connection, kindness, and the joy of shared experiences. So, grab a cup of cocoa, cozy up by the fireplace, and join us for a heartfelt conversation that celebrates the true essence of Christmas and the holidays—a time of love, tradition, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Send us a text Join us on this special episode of 'Keeping it Real with Sharon' as I sit down with TEDx co-license holder Suzette Neff to discuss the much-anticipated TEDxHandleyBlvd Women event. Set for March 2025 in the Winchester area, this all-women's event promises to be a groundbreaking occasion. We'll explore the event's vision and how you can get involved. Whether you want to nominate a visionary woman or apply to share your own ideas, we'll discuss how you can do this as well as how to apply to be a volunteer. Tune in to understand how this event aims to celebrate and elevate women's voices, fostering empowerment and connection right here in our community. Don't miss this chance to be a part of shaping the future at the TEDxHandleyBlvd Women event.

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Keeping It Real with Sharon, I sit down with the incredibly talented Anne Flosnik, an award-winning audiobook narrator whose voice has brought hundreds of stories to life. Born and raised in England, Anne took a leap of faith when she moved to America to pursue new opportunities and what she found was the true meaning of the American dream. Anne shares how she faced her fears and self-doubt head-on, stepping far outside her comfort zone to turn her distinctive British accent into her greatest asset. With over 700 audiobooks to her name and numerous accolades, Anne’s journey is one of courage, reinvention, and the power of believing in yourself even when it’s scary. Tune in to hear how Anne transformed fear into fuel, found her voice in a new country, and built a remarkable career that continues to inspire listeners around the world.

Send us a text In this heartwarming episode of Keeping It Real with Sharon, I sit down with Sherrie Bloomfield, one of six siblings who are keeping their parents’ legacy alive through the Ken and Nancy Foundation. After the passing of their beloved parents, Ken and Nancy, Sherrie and her five brothers wanted to find a way to honor their memory and continue their lifelong mission of giving back. What began as a family tribute has grown into a community movement of raising funds through fun, joy-filled events that support local organizations and families in need. From their famous Tacky Sweater Christmas Party to other creative fundraisers throughout the year, this family is proving that kindness can be contagious and generosity can be a celebration. And now, the next generation, the grandkids, are jumping in to help, ensuring that Ken and Nancy’s spirit of love and service continues to shine bright for years to come. Tune in and be inspired by how one family turned loss into legacy, and how a little bit of laughter, love, and community spirit can truly make a difference.

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Ben Weber, Vice President, Business Development of Blue Ridge Care (formerly Blue Ridge Hospice), to explore the powerful evolution of this essential community organization. Ben shares how the organization has expanded its mission beyond hospice to serve a broader population with aging-related care and support for those navigating serious illness. With a heart for service and a vision rooted in dignity, Blue Ridge Care is building an integrated system of extraordinary care for all stages of life’s journey. Their mission says it best: “Delivering extraordinary care to improve life’s journey.” From emotional and spiritual support to expert physical care, Blue Ridge Care walks beside individuals and families in some of life’s most sacred and challenging moments. Ben also opens up about how deeply personal this work is to him. For Ben, leading Blue Ridge Care isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. He shares that it’s truly an honor to serve this community, to be present in times of need, and to help families find comfort, dignity, and connection during vulnerable seasons of life. Whether you're caring for an aging parent, facing the complexities of a serious diagnosis, or simply want to know how our community is rising to meet these needs—this conversation will leave you hopeful, informed, and inspired.

Send us a text Dive into a heartwarming and forward-looking conversation with Shelly Lee, the 2024 Woman of the Year recognized by the Winchester Branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) for her extraordinary community contributions. Shelly’s dedication to our community shines through her advocacy, her passion for swimming, and her transformational work with the 2 for 2 Foundation. In this inspiring episode, you'll hear how Shelly has devoted over four decades to nurturing our next generation by bringing swim lessons, mentorship, and other programs to children and families across Winchester. We explore how her vision for youth swimming goes beyond just teaching strokes, it’s about water safety, cognitive development, and breaking down access barriers to ensure everyone in our region has the chance to learn to swim Discover how the 2 for 2 Foundation is making real change: in 2024 alone, it funded over 3,015 swim lessons, reaching children throughout the Valley, expanding lessons into schools, and even supporting adults who’ve been deprived of water confidence for generations. Shelly shares her bold vision: imagine every fifth grader at Daniel Morgan Intermediate learning to swim during gym class, an audacious goal that brings safety, equity, and community together and how she made this vision a reality. Get ready for a forward-thinking, empowering episode that reminds us how one person’s heart and hustle can ripple through a community, creating safer, stronger, more connected futures.

Send us a text In this episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with the fabulous Michelle Myers, founder and owner of Michelle’s Main Event, a thriving wedding and event planning business that began with just one determined woman and a big dream. Michelle shares the courageous story of how she left her secure career as a Vice Principal in the school system, despite hesitation and concerns from loved ones, to pursue what had been her passion since childhood. From coordinating Barbie and Ken’s wedding as a little girl to curating unforgettable celebrations for real-life couples, Michelle has always had a knack for planning the perfect party. We talk about what it was like to take that leap of faith, how she built her business from the ground up, and how she balances being a devoted wife and mother while guiding brides and grooms through one of the most important days of their lives. Her joy is contagious, and her attention to detail makes each wedding truly magical. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a bride-to-be, or just someone who loves a good “follow your heart” story—you’ll love this conversation full of inspiration, laughter, and a few behind-the-scenes secrets from the world of wedding planning!

Send us a text In this energizing episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Morgan Todd and Tyler McDonald, the dynamic duo behind the One More Rep small group training class at Valley Health Wellness Center. As both trainers and motivators, Morgan and Tyler break down the unique benefits of small group personal training where you get the individual attention of a personal trainer plus the camaraderie and encouragement of a group. We dive into why staying strong and mobile matters, especially as we age, and how movement is essential for long-term health and vitality. As someone who personally participates in their class, Sharon can vouch for the customized attention, the community feel, and the positive energy that fills the room. You’ll also hear Morgan and Tyler’s personal stories and why they're so passionate about helping others lead healthier lives, one rep at a time.

Send us a text In this episode of Keeping It Real with Sharon, I sit down with Joel Woerl of Alpha Pools USA to talk about his and business partner Billy Whirley’s bold leap from the corporate world into entrepreneurship. With no prior experience in the pool industry, they dove headfirst into business ownership—and faced a steep learning curve. Joel shares the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and how, in just four years, Alpha Pools USA has grown and thrived. Beyond building beautiful pools, Joel and Billy are dedicated to their community, finding joy in helping customers create spaces that bring lasting memories, laughter, and summertime fun.

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Stephanie Feltner, co-owner of Realty ONE Group Old Towne, to talk about her incredible journey from real estate salesperson to successful brokerage owner. Alongside her business partner, Kira Grubb, Stephanie opened the doors to Realty ONE Group Old Towne just three years ago—and what a ride it’s been! Stephanie shares how her passion for mentoring and teaching others in the real estate world sparked the bold move to open her own franchise. She dives into what drew her to Realty ONE Group’s unique model of support and independence, and how that foundation has helped them thrive. We also talk about the importance of giving back. Stephanie is deeply rooted in community involvement, and she shares how she and Kira have built a culture of service and connection within their brokerage. With the opening of several satellite offices and plans for continued growth, their vision is only getting bigger. If you’ve ever considered what it takes to go from agent to owner—or you’re simply inspired by stories of women boldly leading with heart—you won’t want to miss this one!

Send us a text In this episode of Keeping it Real with Sharon, I sit down with Bill and Amanda Whitson, the passionate duo behind the beloved Billy Sous Food Truck. What started as a leap of faith in the wake of COVID has grown into a local favorite; serving up comfort food with a side of heart. Bill left his full-time IT job to pursue a dream, and Amanda has been by his side every step of the way, lending her creativity, calm, and support. In this episode, wee talk about the challenges of launching a food truck, the long hours and hard work that go into making it thrive, and the deep joy that comes from doing something meaningful not just for their family, but for their community. From donating leftover food to those in need, to catering events and serving up dishes locals can’t stop raving about, Billy Sous is more than just a truck, it’s a story of grit, love, and giving back. Tune in and get inspired by their journey, their flavors, and their unwavering dedication to making every bite matter.