Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com The Stirner Modern Gallery in Easton presents the Louis Lamont Exhibition, opening September 13. Curated and installed by Bibi Monahan, this exhibition brings together nearly 100 works of Lamont’s vibrant folk art, blending them with furnishings, masks, and artifacts from the Karl Stirner collection. Hear from: Jonas Stirner, gallery founder and sculptor, on continuing his father Karl’s legacy Bibi Monahan, curator and designer, on creating the show’s loft-like installation The story of Louis Lamont, outsider artist and friend of Karl Stirner, whose paintings tell raw and colorful stories of everyday life “His paintings have such a sincere perspective of the world… weddings with drunken brides, the chain lady, snow scenes, Allentown, Chicago, New Orleans.” – Jonas Stirner “They were dusty, they hadn’t been shown or hung or dusted off in years. They were just waiting to be rediscovered.” – Jonas Stirner Stirner Modern Gallery, Easton Exhibition opens September 13 More info: stirnermodern.com Special thanks to sponsors: Michael Bernadyn with RE/MAX Real Estate, Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub, Banko Beverage Company, Wind Creek Event Center, WDIY 88.1 FM Follow us on Substack. Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/LNeLUT6rQtM?si=et7JPuXmx_UaSJ5E Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com The Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast sits down with the featured authors of the Society of the Arts’ Cocktails with the Authors (October 15, 2025) and Luncheon with the Authors (October 16, 2025). This year’s lineup includes:• Adriana Allegri, debut author of The Sunflower House• Alison Gaylin, Edgar and Shamus Award–winning author of We Are Watching• Jason Rekulak, New York Times bestselling author of Hidden Pictures and The Last One at the Wedding These events bring acclaimed authors to Allentown for conversations, panel discussions, and book signings. Proceeds benefit arts education at the Allentown Art Museum, the SOTA Print Fund, and the SOTA Education Endowment. Tickets and info: https://www.sotapa.org/lwta More episodes: https://lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast Special thanks to sponsors: Michael Bernadyn with RE/MAX Real Estate, Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub, Banko Beverage Company, Wind Creek Event Center, WDIY 88.1 FM Follow us on Substack. Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/05iM_rx7rPE Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com For more than a century, A-TREAT has been part of the Lehigh Valley story. The sodas and seltzers we grew up with, the flavors that feel like home. Now the brand is doing something new: using that fizz to fight pediatric cancer. In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast we are on site at the A-TREAT facility with Luke Jaindl, Vice President of Jaindl Companies, and Michele Zenni-Rounds, Executive Director of the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley (PCFLV). Together they share the story behind “Fizz That Fights” Lemon Twist Seltzer, a limited edition release that puts community first. Every bottle helps raise awareness and support for PCFLV’s mission to provide hope, programs, and direct assistance to more than 450 local families navigating childhood cancer. We talk about: How the A-TREAT and PCFLV partnership came to life Why local matters, from Jaindl’s rescue of A-TREAT in 2015 to PCFLV’s hyperlocal mission The importance of awareness initiatives like “30 Days, 30 Stories” during Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month A-TREAT’s unique place in Lehigh Valley history, from Big Blue to holiday flavors, and what the future looks like Listen in for community, history, and a whole lot of fizz. Learn more about PCFLV: https://www.pcflv.org/ Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/7RpzdyyKQ_A Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com On this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, George Wacker sits down with Michael Fickes, songwriter and frontman of Roman Patterns, to talk about the band’s debut full-length album Somewhere on the Highway, out now on Shaky Records. The album follows their 2024 Darts EP and features 11 brand new tracks, including the singles Modern Man and Daylight Saloon, plus a reimagined cover of Fuel’s hit Hemorrhage (In My Hands). Recorded and produced at Shaky Records, the album blends grunge and alternative rock influences from the late 90s and early 2000s with modern indie rock sensibilities. Michael shares how his creative partnership with producer Shaky reignited after a long break from music, how family and friends contributed to the record, and why Roman Patterns is focused on the studio rather than the stage — at least for now. Listen to Somewhere on the Highway:Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube Watch Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vEwJRWduyQ&feature=youtu.be Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com On this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, we’re joined by Devika Knafo, the organizer behind The Mom Market, a vibrant new pop-up event coming to the Bethlehem Rose Garden on August 24. The Mom Market is designed to celebrate and support mom and women entrepreneurs in the Lehigh Valley, featuring artisan goods, local businesses, wellness vendors, food, and entertainment in a family-friendly community setting. We talk about how Devika came up with the idea, the challenges moms face balancing business and family, and why creating spaces for women to connect, collaborate, and grow is so important. She also gives us a preview of the day’s schedule, from community yoga to kids’ storytime and even Disney princess dance-offs, and shares what’s next for this seasonal series of markets. Listen now:www.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast The Mom MarketAugust 24, 9:30 AM–3 PMBethlehem Rose GardenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsmeetmarket Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/dKoVJFn6DP8 Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com On this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, we’re joined by Kenna DeValor, a poet, publisher, and founder of FlowerMouth Press. Kenna’s new poetry collection DISCOFRUIT is a shimmering celebration of queer identity, vulnerability, and joy. We talk about how the book was born in a small Poconos café under a disco ball, Kenna’s creative upbringing in Coopersburg and Charter Arts, and how FlowerMouth Press grew from a solo idea in 2019 into a nonprofit platform amplifying Gen Z voices around the world. We also explore the importance of art, physical media, and why the next generation isn’t done with poetry. Listen now:www.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast Grab DISCOFRUIT:Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/discofruit-kenna-devalorBlurb/Author Site: https://kennadevalor.my.canva.site Submit to FlowerMouth Press:Website: https://flowermouthpress.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowermouthpress Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/42ZFIC_813k Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com What started as three filmmakers meeting at a Wegmans café has grown into one of the Lehigh Valley’s most collaborative creative communities. In this episode, George talks with Dawn Daignault, Michael Sheridan, and Vince Stahl, the founders of Route 22 Filmworks — a grassroots filmmaking group that now boasts more than 200 members and an annual film festival at Bethlehem’s Ice House. We discuss the group’s origins, how they’ve built a space where newcomers and seasoned pros collaborate on no-budget films, and why their festival focuses on showcasing local talent. They also share behind-the-scenes stories, the unique challenges of keeping films under 20 minutes, and why they believe the Valley’s indie film scene is thriving. Learn more: Route 22 Filmworks → http://route22filmworks.com/ All episodes → www.lvwithlove.com Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/hbiRvFFAneQ?si=noUjK-WpNWLt8uLe Thank you to our Partners! WDIY 88.1 FM Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com The Greater Lehigh Valley Arts + Culture Patron Survey is more than a questionnaire. It’s a region-wide effort to gather real data on how people engage with the arts, what gets in their way, and how we can create more inclusive, accessible cultural experiences. In this episode of Off the Record, we’re joined by Meg Mikovits, Assistant Director and Research Manager at the Lehigh Valley Arts and Culture Alliance, and Marta Kepka, Director of Arts Marketing at Lafayette College. They share how this free, anonymous survey came together, what kinds of questions it asks, and why it’s so important that both individuals and organizations take part. We talk about: Why the arts are essential to economic growth, public health, and social connection The surprising lack of existing audience data in the region What organizations can gain from distributing the survey to their audiences How the results will be shared and used across sectors Whether you’re a mural lover, a Musikfest regular, a parent with kids in band, or someone who just wants to see more arts opportunities in your neighborhood, your voice matters. Take the survey: https://bit.ly/LehighValleyArtsSurvey Full episode and more: www.lvwithlove.com Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/jyLmJr6pCGs Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com Recorded at City Hall’s Payrow Plaza, it’s the Mayor’s Musikfest Podcast 2025, hosted by Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds and Lehigh Valley with Love Media’s George Wacker. This year’s episode highlights the people powering Musikfest behind the scenes and on stage: Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO of ArtsQuest, shares what’s new and what keeps the festival going after 42 years Patrick Brogan, Chief Programming Officer of ArtsQuest, talks booking hundreds of bands and building a “city within a city” Dave Fry, local music icon who’s performed at every single Musikfest since 1984, joins the conversation and performs live Laura Waits and Cathy Campanaro of Sync Recovery, along with Northampton County Council member Lori Vargo-Heffner, talk about the launch of SoberPlatz, a new alcohol-free space at the festival Meet the Mayor, a long-time local band, reflects on playing Musikfest for the past 8 years Bren closes out the episode with thoughts on artistry, identity, and what it means to perform at Musikfest Listen for honest conversations, local stories, and a look at how community and music come together every summer in Bethlehem. Musikfest starts Friday, August 1.Thank you to everyone who helps make Bethlehem such a special place to live, visit, and celebrate.Have a great Fest. Watch Episode https://youtu.be/VSV_onIlqok Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com Did you know that 62% of Americans are eligible to donate blood, but only 2–3% actually do? In this episode of Off the Record with Lehigh Valley with Love, we sit down with Rami Nemeh, President & CEO, and Lina Barbieri, VP of Communications and Chief Philanthropy Officer at Miller-Keystone Blood Center, to explore the very real crisis facing our region’s blood supply — and what it will take to fix it. With cohost Jeff Warren, we hear powerful stories of survival (including one that hits close to home for Jeff), and we learn how Miller-Keystone is using apps, AI, and even virtual reality to modernize donation and inspire the next generation of donors. Key stats we discuss:– 62% of Americans can give blood, but only 2–3% do– Every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood– 60% of local donors are over age 55– Only 5% are ages 18–25 Watch Episode https://youtu.be/93n9HoweDDQ Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com Bethlehem Economic Development Corporation (BEDCO) Executive Director Sean Ziller joins the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast to explain how two new grants from Pennsylvania’s Main Street Matters program could impact local businesses and neighborhoods. One grant funds strategic planning for the SouthSide Arts District. The other, known as the Business Improvement Grant (BIG), offers matching microgrants of up to $5,000 for small businesses in certain areas. Ziller and host George Wacker explore how these initiatives aim to strengthen Bethlehem’s business environment, how the funds will be used, and why strategic planning today matters for the city’s future. Learn more and apply: www.bedco-pa.org/main-street-matters Contact: econdev@bethlehem-pa.gov Watch Episode Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, we talk with Henry Rouhana, founder of Sure Fix Remodeling in Easton, Pennsylvania. Henry’s story begins in Lebanon, where he spent summers on construction sites and found inspiration watching architects bring spaces to life. After earning his architecture degree from ALBA in Beirut, Henry immigrated to the United States with his wife and two young children. Starting over was not easy. With no money and no resources beyond his determination, Henry launched Sure Fix Remodeling. Over time, his business grew to include a full showroom and a trusted team of family members. Today, Sure Fix is known for its commitment to design, craftsmanship, and treating every client like family. Explore Sure Fix Remodeling: www.surefixremodeling.com Watch Episode Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com J.A. Marz joins the podcast to talk about his debut novella Ciao, Amore Mio… The Tale of Gabby and Gio, a romantic, emotional journey set in the hills of Tuscany. We dive into the story, the inspiration, and why readers are connecting with his work. Get the book: https://a.co/d/idjdbM0 Full episode + links: www.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/jamarz Watch Episode Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com What started with a single blazer in the trunk of a car has become one of the Lehigh Valley’s most powerful stories of community-driven change. In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker sits down with Sarah Barrett, Executive Director of YWCA Allentown, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Perfect Fit, a workforce empowerment program that’s helped more than 13,000 women step into new careers with confidence. Topics include: How The Perfect Fit began as a grassroots effort Why clothing is just a tool, and the real heart is community support Career workshops, tech certifications, and professional mentoring What’s next for the next 25 years Join the Celebration: Outfit to Empower Luncheon Friday, October 24, 2025 Renaissance Hotel, Allentown, PA Learn more or get involved: ywcaallentown.org/perfect-fit Watch Episode Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, George Wacker welcomes Rebecca Francis, a leading luxury real estate agent in the region, for a thoughtful look at why the Lehigh Valley has become such a magnet for new residents. Rebecca shares insights from her own journey, returning to the Valley after years overseas, and how she has seen its appeal grow. From great schools and respected health systems to vibrant farmers markets and a thriving restaurant scene, the Lehigh Valley blends small-town feel with big-city access. Buyers today are looking for lifestyle as much as a house. They want nearby trails, community events, block parties, parks, and quick drives to New York or Philadelphia. Rebecca explains why those factors increasingly matter more than square footage. She also talks about challenges, like limited inventory, the “lock-in effect” of low interest rates, and how new development is expanding into places like Macungie, Palmer, and Nazareth. The conversation also highlights how diversity, educational opportunities, and mixed-use developments are shaping what comes next for the region. If you want to better understand what makes the Lehigh Valley so attractive, this is the episode to hear. Learn more about Rebecca at rebeccafrancisrealtors.com Read along on Substack Watch Episode Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY 88.1 FM Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com The SouthSide Film Festival is proud to present Rooted — a new documentary tracing 50 years of creative life in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. In this episode, George Wacker sits down with three of the artists featured in the film: Bill George of Touchstone Theatre, Doug Roysdon of Mock Turtle Marionette Theatre, and Dave Fry of Godfrey Daniels. Together, they reflect on what it means to create and collaborate in a post-industrial city shaped by both hardship and hope. We talk about the early days of the Lehigh Valley arts scene, the personal and cultural challenges that defined their work, and how a community of artists helped transform Bethlehem from a steel town into a space for bold, grassroots creativity. Rooted Screening: Sunday, June 15, 2025 at 2:00 PM Location: Baker Hall at Zoellner Arts Center Tickets: Get them here Listen to the podcast: www.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/rooted Southside Film Festival Dates: June 10–14, 2025 (with a showing of Rooted on the 15th!) Locations: Cathedral Church of the Nativity, Touchstone Theatre, PBS39, and more Info & Tickets: ssff.org Watch Episode Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com The SouthSide Film Festival is turning 21 — and it’s still one of the Lehigh Valley’s most vibrant, volunteer-driven cultural events. In this episode, George Wacker sits down with Festival Director Jen Cotto and longtime jury member Ben Bertalan to talk about the grassroots origins of the fest, how they choose which films to feature (“Would you pay $10 to see it?”), and what makes this year’s event more international and community-driven than ever. We get into past favorites like Tucker & Dale vs. Evil, this year’s picks like 25 Cats from Qatar and 40 Watts from Nowhere, and how the SouthSide Film Festival remains a celebration of weird, wonderful cinema — built by and for the Lehigh Valley. Festival Dates: June 10–14, 2025 (with a showing of Rooted on the 15th!) Locations: Cathedral Church of the Nativity, Touchstone Theatre, PBS39, and more Info & Tickets: ssff.org Watch Episode https://youtu.be/wErRTUrvj1Y Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company SouthSide Film Festival Turns 21 and Stays Purely Indie The SouthSide Film Festival returns June 10 through 14 in South Bethlehem. In this episode of Lehigh Valley with Love, host George Wacker talks with Festival Director Jen Cotto and longtime jury member Ben Bertalan about what makes this grassroots, international film event so unique. It began as a casual idea between friends at a coffee shop. Two decades later, it has become a fully independent, volunteer-powered celebration of independent film with global reach and deep local roots. “We are an international film festival. We have films from Qatar and Cyprus this year. Ireland. Almost every state in the United States.” — Jen Cotto What Makes a SouthSide Film? Each year, the jury screens hundreds of submissions. Films come through FilmFreeway, and the process begins in the fall. “We start meeting in September through April. We sit and we watch these films and we say, would we suggest people spend $10 to see this?” — Jen Cotto That simple question shapes every selection. Jury members consider story, plot, acting, technical quality, and whether the film offers something worth an audience’s time and money. A Festival Built on Volunteer Power SouthSide Film Festival has no corporate sponsors or large institutional backers. It operates on community energy and independence. “We are not affiliated with any other nonprofit in the area. Everybody thinks we’re part of ArtsQuest. We are not. We don’t get any money from them.” — Jen Cotto “We are such a best-kept secret in the Valley. If we were to get a bigger audience, I’m not expecting us to get Musikfest numbers. But we would be comfortable with two or three times the audience we have.” — Jen Cotto This Festival Is About Connection More than just screenings, SouthSide offers Q&A sessions with filmmakers and real audience interaction. There are no competitive prizes or red carpet ceremonies. Instead, there is conversation. “We don’t really give prizes. We give an audience award, where people write in their favorite feature and short film. That’s it. We don’t offer a monetary prize.” — Jen Cotto What to Watch in 2025 25 Cats from QatarA documentary about an organization that rescues stray cats and brings them to the U.S. “That one’s showing Wednesday night. The filmmaker is going to be there. It’s a great film.” — Jen Cotto 40 Watts from NowhereThe story of a pirate radio station in 1990s San Francisco “I had read her book in the early 2000s. I was amazed. There’s a documentary on it. Now I want to see it.” — Ben Bertalan How to Attend June 10–14, 2025 Info and tickets: https://southsidefilmfestival.com Screening Locations Cathedral Church of the Nativity Touchstone Theatre PBS39 Frank Banko Alehouse Cinema (Friday late-night...

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com George Wacker and Jeff Warren are joined by Jill Seitz, Chief Community and Regional Planner at the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, and Michael Bernadyn, 2025 President of Greater Lehigh Valley REALTORS®, for a deep dive into the region’s housing challenges. From outdated zoning laws to increasing demand and shrinking affordability, the Lehigh Valley is at a tipping point. This episode brings together two perspectives—planning and real estate—to talk about how we got here and what needs to happen next. “We have the jobs. We have the economy. What we don’t have is enough housing that works for everyone.” — Jill Seitz“If we don’t address supply and density issues now, affordability is going to get worse—and fast.” — Michael Bernadyn Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/Smg4Rb1dgFE Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company Housing Isn’t Just a Market Issue. It’s a Regional One. Housing is one of the most urgent and complex challenges facing the Lehigh Valley.In this episode of Off the Record, we hear from two people deeply engaged in the work:Jill Seitz, Chief Community and Regional Planner at the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, andMichael Bernadyn, 2025 President of Greater Lehigh Valley REALTORS®. Listen to the Episodewww.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/housingepisode The numbers speak for themselves. “We’re anticipating that we’re going to need about 20,000 new units of housing in the Lehigh Valley by 2030. And that’s in addition to what we’ve already got planned and in the works.” — Jill Seitz But this isn’t just about building homes—it’s about building the right kinds of homes in the right places. “People that live and work in the Lehigh Valley can’t always find housing they can afford or housing that suits their needs.” — Jill Seitz “The challenge has always been, and still is, that we have more buyers than we have sellers.” — Michael Bernadyn The Zoning Conversation We Need to Have Much of the region’s housing strain comes down to barriers in zoning and local governance. “We have 62 municipalities in the Lehigh Valley. And if you want to build a multifamily development, you’ve got to go through a very time-consuming process. And there’s a lot of resistance.” — Michael Bernadyn “Communities want economic growth… but they don’t always want the housing that goes along with that.” — Jill Seitz The solution? A shift in mindset—and a move toward regional thinking. “Housing is not optional. It’s not a nice-to-have. It’s necessary if we want to keep growing.” — Jill Seitz What’s Next? The path forward requires policy alignment, regional cooperation, and a commitment to long-term solutions. “We want to make sure that our municipalities are zoning for all types of housing. And that we’re working regionally to make sure there’s a place for everyone—whether that’s a first-time buyer, someone downsizing, or someone who wants to stay in their neighborhood as they age.” — Jill Seitz “If we don’t start having these conversations now, and making changes now, the situation is going to get worse—and fast. But if we do act now, we can start to shift things in a better direction.” — Michael Bernadyn This Episode Matters This conversation isn’t just about housing markets. It’s about equity, sustainability, and what kind of future the Lehigh Valley wants to build. Learn MoreLehigh Valley Planning Commission → https://www.lvpc.orgGreater Lehigh Valley REALTORS® → https://www.greaterlehighvalleyrealtors.com Listen to the full episodewww.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/housingepisode

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content at LVwithLOVE.com George, Crystal, and Dahlia from Lehigh Valley with Love spent the day at Lake Nockamixon State Park with the team from L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs to try out just a few of the activities they offer throughout the summer. From archery to kayaking to full moon paddles, these programs are built to help anyone, regardless of experience, get outside and try something new. They spent time with Lindsey Johnson, Program Coordinator and ACA Level 1 Kayak Instructor, who shared how these programs are designed for all ages, skill levels, and abilities. They also met with instructors Ruth, Craig, Dylana, and Sarah, who bring passion, experience, and approachability to everything from kayaking to archery, helping make the outdoors accessible and fun for everyone. L.L. Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Programs are based at Lake Nockamixon and the Promenade Shops in Center Valley, offering kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, archery, fly casting, guided hikes, and more. With options for beginners, group outings, and even night paddles under the full moon, there’s something for everyone looking to get outside. Learn more → https://www.llbeanoutdoors.com/quakertown-pennsylvaniaVisit their store → The Promenade Shops, Center Valley, PA: https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/1000001713?page=store-center-valley Watch Episode: https://youtu.be/ByiRCy4oizo Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company A Day Outside with L.L. Bean — And Why More People Need to Do This You don’t usually associate archery safety talks with jokes about Sasquatches or see your kid aim an arrow at a tennis ball in the rain and absolutely light up. But that’s exactly what happened when we spent a day with the L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs at Lake Nockamixon. This wasn’t just a video shoot or podcast episode. It was the kind of day that sticks with you. Not because it was perfect (it rained), but because it was real. And more people need this kind of real right now. Listen to the Episodewww.lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/llbeanoutdoordiscovery Explore the Programshttps://www.llbeanoutdoors.com/quakertown-pennsylvania “We want to give you the best first experience you could have.” That’s what Lindsey Johnson, Program Coordinator and ACA Level 1 Kayak Instructor, told us early on. And it’s not something you’d expect to take seriously — until you spend time with the instructors she works with. People like Ruth, who’s been doing this for 15 years and still lights up when she talks about getting people on the water.Or Craig, who took a kayak class in college and came back to it in retirement, just because it made him feel something.Or Dylana and Sarah, who took our family (and a camera crew) through the archery basics without a hint of condescension, even when we had absolutely no idea what we were doing. This is what makes this program work: not the gear or the branding — but the people. These instructors aren’t reciting from a script. They believe in this stuff. And they’re patient enough to help you believe in it too. The Outdoors Is Not a Vibe. It’s a Reset Button. We talk a lot about “disconnecting” these days. But for most people, that still means standing around staring at your phone with a different background. This wasn’t that. Out at Lake Nockamixon, even with raindrops on the camera lens and a soggy hoodie, things felt clearer. Dahlia learned how to shoot a bow. Crystal got advice on safety lines and string tension from someone who could probably teach blindfolded. We paddled. We laughed. We dried off. We reset. You don’t have to be “outdoorsy” to do this. That’s the point. These programs are built for beginners. You don’t need to own anything. You don’t need to know what you’re doing. You just need to show up. “Even...

Get More LVWITHLOVE Content Guests: Mike CunninghamJen Tafoni In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker sits down with the organizers of Get Outta Your Booth!, a new kind of voiceover conference happening June 27–29, 2025 at SOKOL Club in Bethlehem, PA. This isn’t your average industry meetup — Get Outta Your Booth! is designed around accessibility and community. With just 100 attendees, sessions led by working pros, a six-lane bowling alley, karaoke socials, and zero profit motive, it’s built to bring voice actors together without the pressure or price tag of larger events. Why voiceover is about more than “having a good voice” How to go pro from your home studio — no LA or NYC required Building community in a solo-heavy career The scary reality of AI voice theft — yes, it’s happening What most beginners get wrong (and how to do it right) Learn more + get tickets → getouttayourbooth.com Listen to the full episode → lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/getouttayourbooth Watch Episode https://youtu.be/1_E-uufQJl4———-www.lvwithlove.com Thank you to our Partners! L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs WDIY Lehigh Valley Health Network Wind Creek Event Center Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub Banko Beverage Company Get Outta Your Booth! — A Voiceover Conference with Community (and Karaoke) at Its Core “It’s a crock pot career. It’s not a drive-through.” — Jen Taphoney That quote pretty much says it all. In this companion piece to the latest episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, we dive into the story behind Get Outta Your Booth!, a voiceover conference built on community, accessibility, and a whole lot of real-world wisdom. Hosted by George Wacker, the episode features co-organizers Mike Cunningham and Jen Taphoney, who share how the idea for the event came to life—and why it’s so different from your typical industry gathering. Listen to the Episode https://lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/podcast/getouttayourbooth Conference Info https://www.getouttayourbooth.com From Pottsville Attic to Microsoft Explainers Jen Taphoney’s journey started in a 1928 house in Schuylkill County. After years in radio, she built a studio in her attic and began producing commercials for $100 a pop. “When I left the radio station, I still had clients who wanted me on their commercials,” she says. “So I put a studio in my attic… sound treatment was super awesome. Yeah.” She’s since built a thriving VO career with clients like Microsoft. “They do a little explainer thing. I’ve been working with them for eight years now. They just send me the copy.” Getting In (and Getting Real) Mike Cunningham’s path to voiceover started in the military and IT. Then the pandemic hit. “My friend was like, ‘Why don’t you do voiceover?’ The pandemic is happening. There’s nothing else to do,” he recalls. He joined a program, trained, and stuck with it—turning his home setup into a launchpad for commercial work, video games, and narration. “It kind of grew into an obsession out of spite… I’m going to do it. I’m going to make it work. And I don’t care what it’s going to take.” Why Beginners Struggle “A lot of people come in and say, ‘My friend told me I have a good voice,’” Jen says. “That’s not enough.” “There’s a certain amount of instinct involved,” Mike adds, “but it takes training. And you have to be prepared to not hear back at all.” “You don’t often get, ‘Sorry, we went with somebody else,’” Jen explains. “You just have to keep going. Audition after audition, day after day, year after year.” Mike sums it up: “Most people start out trying too hard. Just be you.” AI, Stolen Voices, and the Future of the Industry Both guests have strong words about AI’s impact on the industry. “It undermines our entire industry,” Jen says. “Whether it’s music production or art or writing or voiceover… it’s not human.” Mike’s voice was actually cloned by a foreign...