Lancaster Connects
Lancaster Connects
Jeff Giagnocavo, Ben McClure
Lancaster Connects brings together local charities, local heroes, and local businesses to showcase the best of what Lancaster, PA has to offer so that in 2021 and beyond – our local neighbors and friends may thrive, be more productive, and live happily and generously. The Lancaster Connects Podcast is hosted weekly by Gardner's Mattress & More co-owners Ben McClure & Jeff Giagnocavo, and can be viewed on numerous streaming services as well as listed to on your favorite podcast platforms.
Lancaster Advocates: Empowering Lives with The Arc with Maureen Westcott: Episode 86
In this episode, Ben speaks with Maureen Westcott, the Executive Director of The Arc Lancaster Lebanon, to discuss the organization's mission to empower individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) to live independent and fulfilling lives. With a personal connection to the cause as a parent of an adult with I/DD, Maureen shares her expertise as both a provider and advocate. Listen in as they delve into this inspiring conversation on making a positive impact in the lives of those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD).
Mar 20, 2023
51 min
Providing Care for Alzheimer’s with Frances Gibbons: Episode 85
In this episode, Ben & Jeff are joined by Frances Gibbons, the Senior Director of Development at the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Serving 59 counties in western, central and northeastern Pennsylvania, Frances and her team organizes and executes the Walk to End Alzheimer’s® events, the second-largest peer-to-peer fundraising event in the United States. Here in the Eastern, Central & North part of the Greater Pennsylvania, she works on achieving designated financial and participant goals through team and individual fundraising, corporate solicitation, community partnerships, as well as increasing Alzheimer's Association awareness and visibility in the community. Frances oversees 13 of the 23 Walks in the Greater Pennsylvania Chapter which helps the Alzheimer's Association fund the mission & vision of a world without Alzheimer's & other dementias.Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation as we walk towards a brighter future for all those affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias.
Mar 13, 2023
1 hr 5 min
The Sweet Side of Lancaster with Jennie Groff of Lancaster Sweet Shoppe and Stroopies, Inc: Episode 84
In this episode, Ben welcomes Jennie Groff, one of the owners of the Lancaster Sweet Shoppe and Stroopies, Inc. located in downtown Lancaster City. With over 23 years of marriage and 4 children, Jonathan and Jennie share their passion for using business to solve social issues and how it has allowed them to connect and serve people from different walks of life through their businesses.They will delve into their journey as entrepreneurs, their approach to business and social impact, and the role of community in their success. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how Jonathan and Jennie Groff have successfully integrated their passion for social impact into their business model.
Mar 6, 2023
54 min
The Jewel of Lancaster City with Melissa Siwiec of Central Market Trust: Episode 83
In this episode, Ben & Jeff welcome Melissa Siwiec, the Executive Director of CMT (Central Market Trust). She brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit management, having served at organi...
Feb 20, 2023
54 min
Person-Centered Change in Lancaster with Vanessa Philbert of The Community Action Partnership: Episode 82
In this episode, Ben & Jeff welcomes Vanessa Philbert, who is the Chief Executive Officer for the Community Action Partnership of Lancaster County. In her role at CAP, she provides leaders...
Feb 13, 2023
1 hr 4 min
Lancaster’s LEGO Master with Dominic Forte: Episode 81
In this episode, Ben & Jeff welcome Dominic Forte, a former contestant who was on the show, "Lego Masters''. This is where contestants compete for a chance to win $100,000 and be named the next “Lego Master”. Dominic has had a passion for Legos ever since he received his first lego set at 6 years old and it has now evolved into something amazing that brings creativity and skill together. They’ll talk about his experience and what Dominic gained/learned from this opportunity.
Feb 6, 2023
59 min
Transforming Lives in Lancaster with Mandy Richardson of Clare House Lancaster: Episode 80
In this episode, Mandy Richardson, Executive Director of Clare House will be joining with Ben & Jeff to discuss her experience working in nonprofit management and her vision for Clare Hous...
Jan 30, 2023
40 min
Unlocking Star Power and Potential with Jennifer West of Girls on the Run: Episode 79
On this episode, Ben & Jeff speak with Jennifer West, a native of Lancaster County and the program director and co-founder of Girls on the Run of Lancaster and Lebanon. Jennifer started th...
Jan 23, 2023
1 hr 2 min
Sleep Smarts: Have You Been Sleeping Wrong?! With Ben McClure & Jeff Giagnocavo: Episode 78
In this episode, Ben and Jeff will be sharing their upcoming Sleep Elevated Seminar hosted by Gardner’s Mattress & More. This is a fun, interactive, and informative presentation focused on helping you improve your sleep. During this FREE seminar, you will hear some of their best tips and tricks for getting a good night's rest, including advice on choosing the right mattress, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and developing healthy sleep habits.
Jan 16, 2023
50 min
A (Clean) Window To Lancaster With Austin Hartman of Fish Window Cleaning: Episode 77
Austin Hartman is from Columbia, PA and helps run and operate a family business with his mother, father and brother. Austin graduated from Lock Haven University with a marketing degree in 2019. By 2020, due to the pandemic, Austin joined forces with his father to help and was the best decision Austin could have ever made. Austin loves what he does and is thrilled to be a part of achieving his parents dream of running a successful business. Outside of work, Austin lives a simple life by hanging with friends and workouts daily.
Jan 9, 2023
49 min
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