Shows
Wilkes-Barre ConnectWilkes Small Business Development Center w/ Dorothy LaneJoin host Dan Kimbrough for a conversation with Dorothy Lane, Director of the Wilkes University Small Business Development Center. Dorothy joined the SBDC in 1999 and has served as training coordinator, business consultant, and now leads the Center, ensuring entrepreneurs and small businesses across five Northeastern Pennsylvania counties have the support they need to succeed.
In this episode, Dorothy shares insights on starting and growing a business, real-world success stories, and the vital partnerships that help Northeast Pennsylvania businesses thrive. Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to expand, this episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration for...2025-07-2124 minWilkes-Barre ConnectVital Health Enterprises w/Angel Diaz Jr.In this episode of The Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we speak with Angel Diaz Jr., founder of Vital Health Enterprises and participant in the Luzerne County TechCelerator program. A U.S. military veteran and healthcare innovator, Angel is developing a real-time, wearable monitoring solution designed to streamline patient intake and optimize clinical workflows.
The Vital Band—his flagship device—continuously tracks key biometric indicators such as blood pressure, pulse oximetry, and additional vitals. By enabling patients to bypass preliminary nursing assessments, the device empowers healthcare providers to allocate resources more efficiently and prioritize direct physician care.
We e...2025-06-1613 minWilkes-Barre ConnectHunting Positivity w/Hunter Wesolowski and Nate HermanOn this episode of The Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with TechCelerator participants Hunter Wesolowski and Nate Herman, the creators of Hunting Positivity—a social media and online positivity app designed to uplift and inspire.
We explore their journey through the TechCelerator program, the vision behind Hunting Positivity, and their mission to Spread Meaning in a world often filled with noise. Hear why their mantra, “Be The Good,” is more than a slogan—it's a call to action for us all.
Learn more about Hunter and Nate’s mission at huntingpositivity.com.
Prod...2025-06-0925 minWilkes-Barre ConnectStudent Life and Success w/ Brenda Arias and Marytere Quintana-AvilaOur host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Marytere and Brenda, two interns from the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce, working through the Bonner program at Wilkes University.
We discuss their expierence as interns overall, but also with such a high profile organization like a chamber. Both Brenda and Marytere share their experiences from being the first college bound family member to overcoming self doubt and putting yourself out there. Through their experiences, both feel poised for whatever comes next and offer great advice for the next class of interns looking to take over the valley.
T...2025-04-2427 minWilkes-Barre ConnectLuzerne Learns to Work w/Shanie Mohamed and Alex PiehlIn this episode, host Dan Kimbrough discusses the Luzerne Learns to Work program with Shanie Mohamed and Alex Piehl from the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce. This innovative initiative aims to prepare high school students for successful careers in Northeast Pennsylvania.
The program provides students with a blend of soft and technical skills training, as well as direct connections to local employers. By partnering with schools, the program helps 11th and 12th graders explore their career interests, access personalized learning pathways, and participate in valuable work-based learning experiences.
This program is an evolution of...2025-02-0515 minWilkes-Barre ConnectServing the public w/Romilda CrocamoIn this episode, we sit down with Romilda Crocomo, the County Manager of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Romilda provides a fascinating inside look at the role of a county manager, overseeing the day-to-day operations of a large and diverse county with over 1,500 employees.
Romilda shares her unique career path, from practicing law in the private sector to becoming a public servant dedicated to delivering critical services to the citizens of Luzerne County. She discusses the challenges of managing elections, maintaining infrastructure, and supporting the county's most vulnerable populations.
This conversation offers valuable insights into the important...2024-11-1816 minWilkes-Barre ConnectCommunity and Communication w/Mayor Mike Lombardo
In this episode, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Mayor Lombardo the City of Pittston to discuss the city's revitalization efforts and community engagement. Mayor Lombardo shares the importance of effective communication, highlighting initiatives like a quarterly newspaper to keep residents informed.
Our conversation explores Pittston's historical context and the mayor's personal connection to the city. Addressing diversity and multiculturalism, Mayor Lombardo emphasizes the need for open dialogue and finding common ground. He also provides advice for youth looking to get involved in local government and shares Pittston's plans for the future, balancing short-term achievements with long-term goals.
Throughout our co...2024-11-0421 minWilkes-Barre ConnectMedia Literacy w/Julie SidoniIn this episode of The Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Julie Sidoni from WVIA to discuss the critical importance of media literacy in today's information landscape.
They explore the rapid changes in media consumption, the distinction between news and information, and the key differences between public and commercial media.
Julie shares insights from WVIA's listening tour, highlighting the diverse needs of communities within their large coverage area and the challenges of maintaining trust in local journalism. She emphasizes the value of hyper-local reporting and the role of local media in community...2024-10-2825 minWilkes-Barre ConnectYour Voice Matters w/Drew PopishIn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Drew Popish, the Northeast Regional Director for Governor Josh Shapiro. They discuss Drew's journey into politics and the importance of youth engagement and diverse representation in advocacy. Drew shares how he initially had no plans to enter politics, but felt compelled to get involved to ensure his voice and perspective were heard. He emphasizes the crucial role young people have played in driving social and political change.
The conversation delves into the challenges Drew faced in feeling unwelcome in political spaces early on...2024-10-2121 minWilkes-Barre ConnectAuthentic Diversity in the Workplace w/Jake KelleyIn this episode of The Wilkes Barre Connect Podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Jake Kelley of Mx. Kelley Queer Education LLC to discuss identity, inclusivity and authentic diversity in the workplace. Jake emphasizes the importance of understanding identities beyond surface labels and acknowledging marginalized communities' experiences. They discuss the challenges of inclusivity in corporate settings and share personal stories. Dan and Jake also explore the complexities of safe spaces, psychological safety, and how organizations can authentically demonstrate their commitment to inclusion through data, policies, and leadership from the top down.
Learn more about J...2024-07-1146 minWilkes-Barre ConnectYoung Professionals Council w/Mollie Boyd and Rachael StarkOn this episode of Wilkes-Barre Connect, we discuss the Young Professionals Council and its role in bringing together young leaders in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Former Chair Rachel Stark and current Chair Mollie Boyd share how the group provides opportunities for professional and personal growth while giving back through service. From conferences to fundraising events, learn how YPC fosters positivity and involvement in the community.
For those looking to get connected, we'll tell you where to find these passionate professionals online and in person.
FB - https://www.facebook.com/wbconnect
Join the C...2024-03-1417 minWilkes-Barre Connect2023 Wilkes-Barre Connect Conference - Barriers To Entrepreneurship with Jacqueline Escobar and Dan KimbroughOn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, Jacqueline Escobar and our host Dan Kimbrough hold a discussion Connect Coference around barriers to Entrepreneurship and the challenges and opportunities for small business owners in our region. Business leaders like @ParkMultimedia's Dan Kimbrough share real stories of overcoming barriers like lack of funding and building community connections when they first started out. We also learn about the vital support organizations like @WilkesSBDC and the Chamber provide through programs, resources, and advocacy for #minorityownedbusinesses. The takeaway - no matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, don't be afraid to tap...2024-03-0745 minWilkes-Barre Connect2023 Wilkes-Barre Connect Conference - Education and Workforce Development with Zubeen Saeed and Susan MagnottaOn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast Zubeen Saeed and Susan Magnotta lead a discussion on workforce development and education in Northeast Pennsylvania. The conversation includes local professionals and covers career exploration, pathways to education, and opportunities to get students exposed to different careers at an early age.
Show Notes -
Junior Achievement is focusing on career exploration and workforce development programs for K-12 students through initiatives like Inspire and YES. They are expanding these programs to more districts in Luzerne and Lackawanna counties. For more information - https://nepa.ja.org/...2023-12-0736 minWilkes-Barre Connect2023 Wilkes-Barre Connect Conference - Housing Support with Maryanne Velez and Vivian WilliamsOn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we hear from Maryanne Velez from the United NEPA Alliance and Vivian Williams from the Scranton Area Community Foundation. They discuss data on rising rents and the lack of affordable housing options. We also hear from college students and young professionals discussing concerns about remaining in the area after graduation.
Solutions, such as community needs for living wages, wraparound support services, and career opportunities beyond warehouses are addressed. Maryanne and Vivian also discuss partnerships between nonprofits, unions, and schools as ways to promote skilled trades and long-term housing stability. K...2023-11-3018 minWilkes-Barre Connect2023 Wilkes-Barre Connect Conference - Foundational Support with Dave Pedri and Maggie MartinelliOn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we hear from Dave Pedri and Maggie Martinelli from the Luzerne Foundation and the Scranton Area Foundations, respectively. This conversation is a live panel discussion from the 2023 Wilkes-Barre Connect Conference. Maggie and Dave share how each foundation can work with individuals or nonprofits looking to do good in the community, but coming up against roadblocks.
We also learned about some community resources to help raise awareness for your non-profit and hear the live Q&A from the audience.
To learn more about the Scranton Area Foundation - ht...2023-11-0928 minWilkes-Barre Connect2023 LEAD Day - Advocacy w/Luzerne County Council Chair Kendra Vough and Mayor Max ConwayOn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we sit with Kendra Vogue, chair of Luzerne County Council, and Max Conway, mayor of Dunmore Borough, and learn about how they got their start in politics and what barriers young professionals may face here in Northeast PA. Both encourage listeners to reach out to local leaders with their ideas and offer ways to get involved through various boards and committees.
We also discuss challenges like affordable housing and retaining young residents, as well as making communities more inclusive and vibrant for diverse populations.
To learn mo...2023-11-0236 minWilkes-Barre Connect2023 LEAD Day -Mayor Paige Cognetti and DEIOn this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect podcast we sit down with Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti about the city of Scranton and their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
Mayor Cognetti discusses how she has worked to increase representation in city leadership and hiring through merit-based practices. She also walks through some of the challenges of implementing DEI initiatives in a politically polarized environment and the importance of advocacy from community members.
The mayor offers advice to those looking to get involved in local government and pushes back against the divisiveness that prevents communities from coming...2023-10-2634 minWilkes-Barre Connect2020 Annual Dinner - Charitable Organization if the YearJoin the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber as we talk to our 2020 Charitable Organization of the Year Award recipient, Osterhout Free Library, about the great work the do for our community.
2020-12-0430 minWilkes-Barre Connect2020 Annual Dinner - Diversity Champion Business of the YearJoin the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber as we talk to our 2020 Diversity Champion Business of the Year Award recipient, PNC Bank, about their diversity, equity, and inclusion work
2020-12-0420 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 18 - Connect Conference - Cassandra ColemanCassandra, the executive director of America250PA, discusses the goal and purpose of the project. Cassandra also talks about the "meeting in a basement in Wilkes-Barre" that sparked the Direct Effect Challenge with state universities and the US Postal Service.
2019-12-0333 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 17 - Connect Conference - Victoria Stephen and Heather SneadVictoria and Heather talk with us about innovation and the United States Postal Service. Recently, the USPS has taken on the goal of reaching and impacting the next generation and make sure direct mail is included in marketing efforts, not just digital avenues. This includes direct effect challenges like the one wrapping up at the conference.
2019-11-2129 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 16 - Connect Conference - Pitch ParticipantsThis episode focuses on the Pitch participants that presented during the conference. StudioBE, SchoooldxFrugal Athlete, and American Paper Bag all talk about their story and beginnings, passions, and the impact their product or service has.
2019-11-2150 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 15 - Connect Conference - Elyse WilsonElyse Wilson speaks with us about the Westmoreland Club's newest initiative "501(c) Free" that will serve as a fundraising competition for nonprofits in Luzerne County. Those interested should follow-up at elyseidewilson@gmail.com.
2019-11-2119 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 14 - Connect Conference - North Slope BreweryWe sit down with Mike and Rich from North Slope brewery to discuss their story and brewing process.
2019-11-2111 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 13 - Connect Conference - Alexander DaleDr. Dale, the Senior Officer for MIT Solve’s Sustainability pillar, speaks us with us about the fact that there are plenty of problems and causes that need solving around us. He talks with us about not just looking at how tech can help these problems but also building an impact model that will work the community to learn about the real issues that need tackling.
2019-11-2146 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 12 - Connect Conference - Ced FunchesCed Funches, CEO at Schooold, talks with us about moving beyond just creating a product but creating something that has an impact on others and truly helps to move them forward. Ced also discusses Schooold and how our education system is dropping the ball on preparing students for real life.
2019-11-2141 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 11 - Kevin JonesWe sit down with Kevin Jones, CEO of VizVibe, a transmedia storytelling company that is bringing a digitally layered approach to the educational experience. He also shares his journey through the world of media, and teaches us to always roll with the punches in the creative industry. 2019-11-1946 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 10 - Wendy Lindars and Keith StevensonCheck out episode 10 of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast with guests Wendy Lindars and Keith Stevenson. Wendy and Keith share their long history they have with each other and explain their journey from working in the Print Industry to transitioning into the digital dominated world we live in today.
2019-11-0125 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 9 - So I Quit My Job with Dan KimbroughDan Kimbrough, founder of Park Multimedia and Kutztown Student, Julia Priest are guest on episode 9. Julia shares her experience as an intern for Park Multimedia and what she learned so far in video and audio production industry. Dan gives insight on his career switch from formal educator to story teller. We get some tips on starting your very own podcast as well as hear some of Dan's most memorable moments.
2019-10-2436 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 8 - Nicole Farber and ENX2 MarketingIn episode eight of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we chat with CEO of ENX2 Marketing, Nicole Farber. Nicole shares her mentors and supporters that helped drive the growth of ENX2 and the culture she has created within the business. We also sit down with Senior Paid Search Specialist at ENX2 Marketing, Robyn Snyder, who explains her role at ENX2 and the importance of a positive work environment.
2019-07-2226 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 7 - Helen Lavelle, Passion with ConvictionIn episode seven of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we have the pleasure of chatting with Helen Lavelle of Lavelle Strategy Group. Helen describes her passion for the arts and how that passion has helped fuel the Recovery Bank in Scranton for recovering addicts. We hear how strong of an advocate Helen is for the opioid epidemic in NEPA and what programs she stands behind that are helping individuals and families affected by the crisis.
2019-07-1538 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 6 - Gerard Durling, Kathryn Bondi, and Tim Ooms
In episode six, we chat with Gerard Durling, the founder of Coal Creative and Independent Wrestling TV, Kathryn Bondi, Graphic Designer at Posture as well as President of the Board at AAF, and Tim Ooms, a Wilkes University MBA candidate. Gerard talks with us about his venture in Independent Wrestling that led to Independent Wrestling TV. Kathryn explains her role in the creative world here in NEPA and where she gets her inspiration. Tim Ooms gives insight into his experiences as a graduate student and marketing intern.
2019-06-2126 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 5 - Michelle Lehman, Dan Landesburg, and Paige Hepner
In episode five, we sit down with Michelle Lehman the founder of RaeSleeves, Dan Landesburg the Administrative Director of Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, Geisinger Wyoming Valley, and Geisinger Marworth, and Paige Hepner a Pharmacy Student at Wilkes University. Michelle shares how she discovered the idea of RaeSleeves during a trip abroad, and how her mentors at the Allen P. Kirby Center have helped spark her love for entrepreneurship. Dan Landesburg speaks about how his opportunities in executive leadership at Geisinger has made him a better leader as a young professional in the healthcare setting, and as a community member. Lastly...2019-06-1424 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 4 - Tara Siegal, Ryan Hertel, Eddie OkekeIn episode four, we speak with the Vice President of Marketing from Lewith and Freeman, Tara Seigel, the owner of Socialocca, Ryan Hertel, and Business Administration and Marketing Student at Misericordia University, Eddie Okeke. We touch on the launch of the Lewith and Freeman website, and also talk about Tara's journey from an entrepreneur to a leader in her Marketing Team. We “Explore the Rainforest” with Ryan, and discuss his journey as a successful entrepreneur in NEPA. Lastly, we get student insight from Eddie about embracing any career path upon graduation.
2019-05-3129 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 3 - Kris Jones, Tanner Coleman, and Jayme DeMedioIn episode three, we sit down with local entrepreneur and philanthropist Kris Jones, General Manager of Mobiniti Tanner Coleman, and Business Management student from Misericordia University Jayme DeMedio. We discuss the importance of keeping a work/life balance, and discuss the newest (and largest) commitment Kris Jones has made to NEPA. Tanner discusses the importance of taking risks in your profession, and how they can lead to your greatest lessons. Lastly, Jayme shares her experiences of being an active student in her university, and the importance of time management in order to succeed.
2019-05-1926 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 2 - Samuel O'Connell, Holly K. Pilcavage, and Mike Gombita
In episode two, we speak with Samuel O’Connell, the CEO of Tunefly and Creative Director at CoalCreative. Sam shares with us his background in the film and music industry, and how he came “home” with a renewed energy to grow his career as a storyteller, and differentiate himself in NEPA. We also sit down with Holly Pilcavage the Director of Operations & Business Development at CoalCreative. Holly shares the experience of launching the CoalCreative rebrand. She also talks about her passion project, ‘Project Wednesday’, and gives lasting advice about the importance of finding your passion and sticking to it! Lastly...2019-05-1040 minWilkes-Barre ConnectEpisode 1 - Linda Rowe, Meghan Flanagan, and Camaryn LokutaIn episode one, we sit down with Linda Rowe, the owner of Anchor Me Photography, who gives insight on how her entrepreneurship took off, and how her passion for photography turned into her own business. We also chat with Meghan Flanagan, a young professional that proves networking leads to all the right connections. Lastly, we hear Penn State Marketing Student, Camaryn Lokuta’s take on student engagement and the benefits that involvement produces for students.
2019-05-0230 min