Lancaster Connects

In this episode, we sit down with John Hockley II from Weaver Associates to explore how his team delivers far more than “ink on paper.” John shares how Weaver Associates supports businesses with a full spectrum of office solutions—from copiers and printers to service, printing, pure water systems, and office furniture—helping organizations run smarter and more efficiently. We also get a glimpse into John’s life outside of work, where he stays busy with his four children, catches live sports whenever possible (especially UNC, Braves, and Redskins games), and recharges off the grid at his quiet cabin in the woods. ???? Connect with John Hockley: ✅ Website: https://weaverassociatesinc.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weaverassociatesinc ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/weaver-associates-incorporated/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net #LancasterCounty #LancasterPA #LancasterCountyPA #LancasterConnects #Community #RetailExperience

In this episode, Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo team up as your local "dynamic duo" to deliver a special Love Your Mattress President’s Day sales event preview from Gardner’s Mattress & More. Hear all about the biggest deals of the year—including 48 months no-interest financing, custom double deals, and bonus luxury travel vouchers—plus exclusive savings from top brands like Tempur Pedic, Avocado, Puffy, Helix, and more. Jeff Giagnocavo breaks down handy tax tips for investing in better sleep, while Ben McClure brings the fun with prize giveaways and their signature friendly banter. With practical mattress shopping advice, lighthearted tangents, customer shoutouts, and a salute to great charities like Off the Streets, you'll get everything you need to shop smart and wake up happy right here in Lancaster. Tune in for all the details! ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy and Valonda Banks, partners at Liberty Employment Solutions, a dynamic couple united by their passion for helping small and medium-sized businesses thrive. From a hiring and consulting perspective, they share how Liberty supports organizations by uncovering the truth in their workforce needs and freeing leaders to focus on what they do best. Valonda brings clear direction and vision to the company, while Jeremy provides the operational support that helps turn that vision into reality. We also get a glimpse into their fun personal differences—from dogs vs. cats and Eagles vs. Ravens, to Duke vs. UNC—while discovering the shared values and love for Liberty that keep them aligned in business and in life. ???? Connect with Jeremy & Valonda Banks: ✅ Website: https://libertyesolutions.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/libertyemploymentsolutionsllc ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertyemploymentsolutionsllc/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liberty-employment-solutions/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we’re joined by Erin Plotcher and Dr. Shawn Gallagher of the Lancaster Medical Heritage Museum to explore how the region’s rich medical history continues to shape healthcare today. They share how the museum preserves and brings to life stories of medical innovation, caregiving, and public health in Lancaster County—from early colonial healing practices and 18th-century physicians to the rise of modern hospitals and groundbreaking medical advances. The conversation highlights engaging exhibits, educational programs, and community partnerships that connect the past to the present and deepen our understanding of how medicine has evolved within the community. ???? Connect with Erin Plotcher & Shawn Gallagher: ✅ Website: https://lancastermedicalheritagemuseum.org/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lancastermedicalmuseum/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lancastermedmuseum/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we explore the mission and impact of ASSETS Lancaster, a nonprofit CDFI focused on building strong communities through entrepreneurship, equitable access to capital, and business education. The conversation highlights how ASSETS supports underserved entrepreneurs by removing traditional barriers and investing in people as the foundation for long-term economic growth. Denzel Brown and Lindsay High share insights from their work on the front lines of community development—Denzel through mission-driven lending and Lindsay through relationship-building and community partnerships. Together, they discuss how inclusive financing, trust, and collaboration help entrepreneurs start and scale businesses that create lasting impact in Lancaster and beyond. ???? Connect with Denzel Brown and Lindsay High: ✅ Website:https://assetspa.org/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/assetslancaster ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assets.pa/ ✅ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/assets-lancaster Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

If you're ready to see the real heartbeat of Lancaster County - the people rebuilding lives, feeding families, preserving farmland, and opening doors others thought were closed - then this episode is for you. Join us for the inaugural Lancaster Connecties, where we celebrate the small businesses, nonprofits, and local heroes who didn't just talk about change in 2025 - they made it happen. From fighting homelessness and hunger to transforming lives through recovery, the arts, and adventure, these are the stories that prove Lancaster is more than a place - it's a movement. This isn't your typical awards show. It's a tribute to the neighbors, leaders, and quiet warriors who give their time, heart, and talent to strengthen our community every single day. Tune in to discover who's leading the charge - and how you can be part of what's next. Brought to you by Gardner's Mattress & More - because great communities are built on great people. ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we’re joined by Michelle Kime and Kristen Hershey, Co-Directors of Conestoga Valley SEEDS, as they share the heart, vision, and impact of this growing community initiative. Celebrating three years of service as of October 2025, SEEDS was birthed from the passion of CV social worker Katie Reiff and a desire to cultivate a healthy, thriving Conestoga Valley community. Michelle and Kristen discuss how SEEDS enriches lives by connecting neighbors to vital housing resources, educational supports, and health services—walking alongside individuals and families to remove barriers through tools, resources, and meaningful relationships. ???? Connect with Michelle Kime and Kristen Hershey: ✅ Website: https://seedscv.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Conestoga-Valley-SEEDS/100087483900730/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seedscv/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cvseeds/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Ruth Polillo, Owner and Certified Adaptive Personal Trainer at Special Strong Lancaster County. A seasoned physical therapist and mom of four—including two children with special needs—Ruth shares how her personal and professional journeys came together to fuel her passion for adaptive fitness. She explains why she launched Special Strong Lancaster County and how she’s helping individuals of all abilities access empowering, personalized fitness training. We also highlight the origin of Special Strong, founded by Daniel Stein, who overcame his own disabilities through exercise and created the program to help people build strength, confidence, and healthier lives. Together, Ruth’s expertise and Daniel’s vision showcase a powerful mission: making fitness inclusive, accessible, and transformative for every person. ???? Connect with Ruth Polillo: ✅ Website: https://specialstronglancastercounty.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/specialstronglancastercounty ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/specialstronglancastercountypa/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-polillo-4ba00a58/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Gabriel Luber, Chief Generosity Officer at Lancaster Gift Box, a mission-driven gifting company rooted in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Gabriel shares how Lancaster Gift Box thoughtfully curates Pennsylvania-made products while championing farmland preservation and strengthening local communities. He discusses the company’s expanding mission—including its new e-commerce platform and retail space—and how intentional gifting can create deeper connections between people. This conversation explores the power of generosity, the impact of supporting small makers, and the importance of aligning business with purpose. ???? Connect with Gabriel Luber: ✅ Website: https://lancastergiftbox.com/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-luber/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lancastergiftbox/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterGiftBox/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we’re joined by Andrew Zahn, a key leader in Development at Servant Stage Company, a Lancaster, PA–based nonprofit theater and theater education organization. Andrew shares how Servant Stage has spent more than 12 years bringing high-quality performances and youth arts education to communities across Central Pennsylvania — all through their inspiring pay-what-you-will model that ensures theater is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial barriers. We talk about the company’s mission, its impact on young performers, how community-focused arts can transform lives, and what it takes to sustain an inclusive and thriving arts organization. ???? Connect with Andrew Zahn: ✅ Website: https://servantstage.org/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ServantStage ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/servantstage/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/servantstage Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we’re joined by Phil True, Fun Specialist at Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center, for an inside look at the mission, magic, and momentum behind one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved adventure destinations. Phil shares how Refreshing Mountain has grown from humble beginnings in 1983—when founders Marlin and Sharon Harnish transformed a run-down horse camp with just two bunkhouses and a stable—into a vibrant, year-round retreat center that now welcomes hundreds of groups and thousands of guests each year. Together, we explore what makes Refreshing Mountain a uniquely uplifting place for families, teams, and thrill-seekers alike, from its intentional hospitality to its ever-expanding lineup of outdoor experiences. Whether you’re curious about the heart behind the organization or the adventures waiting on property, this conversation shines a light on why Refreshing Mountain continues to inspire connection, rest, and unforgettable fun. ???? Connect with Phil True: ✅ Website: https://refreshingmountain.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RefreshingMountain ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/refreshingmountain/# ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/refreshing-mountain/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfaDpxUJjD60GcSS3LrmzPA Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Aubrey Montgomery, Executive President of Referral Partners Plus (RPP)—a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping professionals and business owners grow through meaningful connections. Aubrey shares how RPP has built a powerful network across 11 active chapters in Lancaster and Berks Counties, offering exclusive industry representation and creating spaces for dynamic networking and educational experiences. We also explore how philanthropy remains a cornerstone of RPP’s mission, driving members to not only grow their businesses but also make a lasting impact in their communities. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to expand your professional circle, this conversation highlights the value of authentic relationships, collaboration, and giving back as key ingredients to sustainable business success. Tune in to learn how RPP is redefining professional networking and empowering local leaders to thrive—together. ???? Connect with Aubrey Montgomery: ✅ Website: https://referralpartnersplus.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/referralpartnersplusofpa ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/referralpartnersplus/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/referralpartnersplus/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Joe Yurick, U.S. Army Veteran and host of This Sober Vet Podcast. Joe served in the Air Defense Artillery, working with the PATRIOT Missile System and deploying during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. After years of self-medicating with alcohol and nearly losing everything, Joe made the life-changing decision to get sober — and has now been sober for over three years. Today, he’s on a mission to normalize sobriety among Veterans who struggle with substance use and the hidden wounds of service. Through his podcast, This Sober Vet, Joe provides honest conversations, community, and hope for those ready to break free from self-medication and find purpose in recovery. Tune in to hear Joe’s powerful story, his insights on the challenges Veterans face with addiction and recovery, and how he’s using his platform to help others live sober, strong, and connected. ???? Connect with Joe Yurick: ✅ Website: https://thissobervet.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/This-Sober-Vet-Podcast/61567537590503/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thissobervetpodcast/ ✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thissobervetpodcast?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Kapp Brown, Owner of Newly Restored, a fast-growing service business based in Elizabethtown. What began in 2014 as a small, two-person operation focused on tile, grout, and concrete cleaning has expanded into a thriving company offering a full range of services — including carpet cleaning, power washing, window cleaning, and even Christmas light installation. From humble beginnings in a home and rented barn to a 5,500-square-foot shop and office, Kapp shares the story of steady growth, team building, and community impact. Tune in to hear how a commitment to quality, adaptability, and customer care helped transform Newly Restored into a trusted name — and what’s next for this dynamic local business. ???? Connect with Kapp Brown: ✅ Website: https://newlyrestored.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Newlyrestoredhscr/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/newly-restored ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWKAwNs0-4H4Z96m3BQob5g Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we open the door to stories of transformation, growth, and opportunity through literacy. Featuring Cheryl Hiester, President of the Literacy & Learning Success Centers & Bill Morgan, President of Capital Coating, Inc. - this conversation highlights how literacy is strengthening Lancaster’s workforce and enriching lives. Cheryl shares the mission and impact of the Literacy Council, helping individuals gain critical language and learning skills. Bill discusses how his company benefits from a diverse workforce and why English language learning is essential for communication and safety on the job. From classrooms to kitchens to construction sites, this episode of Lancaster Connects shows how literacy is a vital connector helping our community learn, grow, and thrive. ???? Connect with Cheryl Hiester, Bill Morgan, and Fernando Garcia Aguila: Literacy & Learning Success Centers - Cheryl Hiester ✅ Website : https://literacysuccess.org/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/literacysuccessLC/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/literacy-learning-success-centers/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/literacycouncil/ Capital Coating, Inc - Bill Morgan ✅ Website: https://capitalcoating.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapitalCoating/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

Join us for a milestone celebration as we turn the spotlight on the heart behind Lancaster Connects. For 35 years, Gardner's Mattress & More has been helping Lancaster County families sleep better and wake up happy, but this anniversary episode goes beyond mattresses to explore what it really means to build a business on honesty, expertise, and genuine community care. Hear the origin story of how Gardner's got its start in Lancaster and what's evolved over more than three decades of serving local families. Discover why their approach stands out in a crowded market, and learn about the customer moments that remind the team why helping people find better sleep truly changes lives. We'll also dive into Gardner's Gives Back, the community impact program that has partnered with local nonprofits to make a real difference across Lancaster County. Find out what inspired this commitment to giving and how it connects directly to the creation of Lancaster Connects itself. From adapting to industry changes like memory foam and online shopping while staying true to core values, to looking ahead at the next chapter for both the business and the podcast, this episode celebrates not just 35 years of success, but 35 years of showing up for the Lancaster community. Whether you're a longtime customer, a fellow small business owner, or simply someone who loves hearing stories about what makes Lancaster special, this anniversary episode offers inspiration, insight, and a reminder of what's possible when you build something with heart. Tune in to celebrate this milestone and discover the vision guiding Gardner's and Lancaster Connects into the future. Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we sit down with Jaime Santiago, Executive Director and founder of Restart Training Center Ministry (RTCM), to explore how a life rooted in faith and purpose can transform individuals and communities. Jaime launched RTCM in 2015 after more than two decades of serving in addiction recovery ministries like Teen Challenge and Revelations of Freedom. With a master’s degree in counseling from Liberty University and as an ordained Assemblies of God pastor, Jaime shares how RTCM equips men to break free from addiction through Christ-centered discipleship. He opens up about his own journey, the challenges of leadership, and the deep role family plays in his life and ministry. Join us for an inspiring conversation about second chances, spiritual transformation, and the power of restarting with purpose. ???? Connect with Jaime Santiago: ✅ Website:https://restartministry.org/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restart.ministry/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restartministryinc ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@restartministry Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we’re joined by Building Bridges Foundation at Anderson Farm, a nonprofit offering equine-assisted therapy to veterans and their families. Tune in as we discuss the healing power of horses in helping veterans reconnect and recover. ???? Connect with Building Bridges: ✅ Website: https://www.buildingbridgesfoundation.org/ ✅ Facebook (Building Bridges Foundation): https://www.facebook.com/BuildingBridgesFoundationandersonfarm Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net #LancasterCounty #LancasterPA #LancasterCountyPA #LancasterConnects #Community #RetailExperience

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Peterson, Executive Director of Power Packs Project, an inspiring nonprofit dedicated to empowering families with education and ingredients to create nutritious weekend meals—ensuring children return to school fed and ready to learn. With over 30 years of nonprofit experience, Brad joined Power Packs in 2020 and has since led impactful initiatives including forging new partnerships with growers, wholesalers, and distributors, launching weekly fresh milk distributions, and expanding the organization’s reach into York County. Tune in to hear Brad’s insights on addressing food insecurity and building community support systems that nurture children's success both inside and outside the classroom. ???? Connect with Brad Peterson: ✅ Website: https://www.powerpacksproject.org/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerpacksproject/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powerpacksproject Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

In this episode, we’re joined by Erin Conahan, Director of Advancement, and Paige McFarling, Executive Director of Lancaster County Food Hub—a nonprofit with a 75-year legacy of serving the Lancaster community with compassion, dignity, and equity. Erin and Paige share how the Food Hub is addressing critical needs in the community by providing fresh food, free clothing, and essential resources to neighbors facing hardship. Through partnerships with local farms, businesses, and dedicated volunteers, they not only meet immediate needs but also help connect individuals to long-term support systems. We dive into the organization’s mission, the challenges of food insecurity, and how Lancaster County Food Hub is working every day to build a healthier, more hopeful future for all. This is an inspiring conversation about community, connection, and the power of showing up for one another. ???? Connect with Erin Conahan & Paige McFarling: ✅ Website: https://lancasterfoodhub.org/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lancasterfoodhub/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterFoodHub Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-better LIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects: ✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net