What makes Mimi Auchter with Getaway Dreams Come True Travel a good neighbor? 

Ever wondered if a travel agent is worth it in the age of online booking? Today's conversation with Mimi Auchter of Getaway Dreams Come True Travel might change your perspective. From her first travels at age eight to amassing experience from over 60 cruises, Mimi brings a wealth of knowledge that goes far beyond what you'll find in a Google search.

Mimi debunks the common misconception that self-booking equals expertise. While she encourages clients to do preliminary research, she emphasizes the value a travel advisor brings through continuous industry training and firsthand experience. Her specialties have evolved from ocean cruising to include river cruising and expedition cruising—with personal recommendations for newcomers to start with the Danube or Rhine rivers. For a truly magical experience, she suggests the Christmas market cruises running from late November through early December.

As a certified cruise counselor with a CLIA card, Mimi's expertise extends beyond cruises to all-inclusive resorts and group travel planning. When not crossing oceans herself, she enjoys simple pleasures with family and local activities. Whether you're planning your first international trip or your fiftieth, Mimi's depth of knowledge could transform your travel experience. Ready to make your getaway dreams come true? Reach Mimi at 724-752-2655 or visit www.getawaydreamscometrue.com and discover the difference a professional travel advisor makes.

To learn more about Getaway Dreams Come True Travel go to: 

www.getawaydreamscometrue.com

Getaway Dreams Come True Travel

(724) 752-2655

What makes Rebecca Church with Rebecca Church Realtor a good neighbor?  

What happens when you prioritize people over properties? Rebecca Church has built a thriving real estate practice by putting humanity first in every transaction. 

Rebecca's fascinating journey from J.Crew creative director to trusted real estate advisor reveals how her design background and people-focused approach create unique value for her clients. She candidly addresses industry misconceptions, particularly around realtor compensation and services, emphasizing the importance of transparency from the first consultation.

"I'm a realtor licensed in Pennsylvania, but my business is people," Rebecca explains, highlighting her role as a consultant guiding clients through one of life's most significant financial decisions. Beyond the paperwork and negotiations, she recognizes that real estate transactions often coincide with major life transitions—divorces, relocations, bereavement—requiring both professional expertise and emotional intelligence.

Rebecca positions herself as "the center wheel" of transactions, coordinating a network of professionals from stagers and contractors to estate planners. This comprehensive support system ensures clients receive guidance through every aspect of buying, selling, or building. Her marketing approach reflects this personal touch, with most clients coming from referrals rather than cold outreach—testament to the lasting relationships she builds.

When she's not helping clients find their perfect home, Rebecca remains deeply involved in her Mount Lebanon community through family sports activities and local events. This community connection enhances her understanding of neighborhood dynamics and client needs, reinforcing that successful realtors don't just work in communities—they become part of them.

Discover how Rebecca's heart-centered approach is redefining real estate success. Connect with her on Instagram @RebeccaChurchRealtor, call 412-999-6438, or email [email protected] to experience the difference of working with a realtor who sees beyond the transaction to the human story within.

To learn more about Rebecca Church Realtor go to: 

www.rebeccachurchproperties.com

Rebecca Church Realtor

(412) 999-6438

What makes Sophia Thorsen with Northside Community Pilates a good neighbor?  

Serendipity and healing intersect at Northside Community Pilates, where founder Sophia Thorsen brings nearly three decades of expertise to Pittsburgh's Georgetown neighborhood. Sophia's wellness journey began as personal rehabilitation after childbirth but quickly revealed profound unexpected benefits—completely eliminating chronic migraines and resolving back pain she hadn't realized had become her normal.

During our conversation, Sophia clarifies the crucial differences between Pilates and yoga, explaining how Pilates uniquely employs specialized equipment with spring resistance to create long, strong muscles capable of efficient movement. This approach makes her studio particularly attractive to clients recovering from injuries, who often become her most loyal patrons and passionate referral sources. Beyond traditional Pilates instruction, Sophia offers specialized manual lymphatic massage therapy, a powerful yet accessible healing modality she believes should be as commonplace as brushing teeth. Her enthusiasm for this technique stems from witnessing remarkable results with clients recovering from various conditions, including the cognitive symptoms of long COVID.

The most captivating moment comes when Sophia reveals the extraordinary coincidence behind her studio location. After spotting a beautiful brick building shortly after moving to Pittsburgh from California, she later discovered it available for rent just as she decided to open her studio. Historical documents revealed the building was once operated by another Sophia—who genealogical research confirmed as Sophia's distant cousin—creating a sense of homecoming in a city where she had no previous connections. "The tale of two Sophias" exemplifies the special energy that infuses this welcoming wellness space.

Whether you're seeking rehabilitation, strength building, or simply a mindful movement practice, discover what makes Northside Community Pilates unique by scheduling a free 20-minute consultation through their website. Sophia's commitment to matching people with the right wellness services—whether with her or elsewhere—demonstrates her genuine dedication to improving quality of life through accessible alternative health practices.

To learn more about Northside Community Pilates go to: 

www.northsidecommunitypilates.com

Northside Community Pilates

(510)301 7899

What makes Tiffany Nolan with I.e. Insurance a good neighbor? 

What makes a truly great insurance relationship? It's not just about finding the lowest premium—it's about partnership, communication, and trust. Tiffany Nolan, founder of IE Insurance, brings a refreshing perspective to the insurance world, having made the fascinating transition from car sales to insurance coverage.

"Insurance is kind of you spend a whole bunch of money for a really expensive packet of paperwork," Tiffany explains with characteristic candor. "You're buying a promise that if the worst thing in the world happens—a major car accident, your house burns down—that piece of paper is going to write you again." This straight-talking approach cuts through industry jargon to reveal what matters most: finding an agent who communicates effectively and has your back when disaster strikes.

Based north of Pittsburgh, IE Insurance has spent a decade building relationships across Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio. What sets them apart? While most agencies take a "set it and forget it" approach, Tiffany's team conducts annual check-ins to ensure coverage still matches clients' evolving needs. They're deeply embedded in community education, working with first-time homebuyers and local organizations to demystify insurance concepts. As Tiffany shares her passion for engines, volunteering with the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, and enjoying the outdoors, we glimpse the human connection that drives her business philosophy.

Whether you're reviewing your current coverage or shopping for new policies, Tiffany offers this gem: pay attention to how comfortable you feel communicating with your agent during the sales process—it's a preview of how they'll handle your claim when you need them most. Ready to experience insurance done differently? Connect with IE Insurance online, through social media, or at their new location just north of Cranberry Township.

To learn more about I.e. Insurance go to: 

www.ieinsurancepa.com

I.e. Insurance

(724)719 2093

What makes Sharon Dimatteo with Evolutionary Minded Wellness a good neighbor?  

Meet Sharon Dimatteo, the transformative force behind Evolutionary Minded Wellness in Pittsburgh's Etna borough. Drawing from Einstein's wisdom that "we can't solve our problems using the same thinking that created them," Sharon guides clients beyond limiting patterns and painful programming toward profound healing.

Sharon's remarkable journey from army medic and X-ray technician to holistic healer began during her 25 years as a stay-at-home mom. Faced with her daughter's struggles and her own identity loss, Sharon discovered meditation and heart-centered approaches that changed everything. This personal transformation sparked her passion for Reiki—what practitioners playfully call "the gateway drug to spirituality"—and eventually expanded into a comprehensive healing practice.

Today, Sharon offers an impressive array of modalities: quantum healing hypnosis, Reiki sessions and certifications, Akashic Records readings, inherited family trauma work, and past life regression. Though these approaches are sometimes dismissed as "woo-woo," Sharon grounds them firmly in science while honoring their intuitive elements. She masterfully challenges the myth that healing must be "long, linear, and painful," showing clients that symptoms are messages to be understood rather than problems to manage.

The most powerful takeaway from our conversation? "You're so much more than your pain or your suffering." Sharon reminds us that challenges aren't punishments but catalysts for evolution—if we choose to respond to them that way. Her services welcome everyone from teenagers to seniors, individuals to corporations, all seeking the same thing: a path to their highest potential.

Ready to transform your wellness journey? Connect with Sharon through evolutionarymindedwellness.com or email [email protected] for a discovery call. Your evolution might be closer than you think.

To learn more about Evolutionary Minded Wellness go to: 

https://www.evolutionarymindedwellness.com/

Evolutionary Minded Wellness

(412)226 6119

What makes Cathy Grieb with Hope Counseling Pittsburgh a good neighbor?  

Ever wondered if counseling is only for those with serious mental health issues? Our conversation with Cathy Grieb of Hope Counseling Pittsburgh shatters this misconception and reveals a more inclusive, supportive approach to mental wellbeing that serves our community.

Cathy shares her journey of pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a counselor later in life, building a practice grounded in compassionate care and faith-based principles when appropriate. What makes Hope Counseling truly unique is their holistic perspective – seeing clients as whole people rather than just a collection of symptoms or challenges. They serve clients from age three to seniors, addressing everything from anxiety and depression to life transitions like career changes, new parenthood, empty nesting, and retirement.

The heart of our discussion reveals how counseling supports those seeking personal growth, better self-awareness, improved relationships, or integration of faith into daily life. As Cathy eloquently explains, "We're there to help people, not to judge... We help you discover for yourself how you want to live your life, in a way that supports your own purpose and sense of meaning." This approach transforms the counseling relationship from one of authority to partnership – walking alongside clients on their journey toward authenticity.

Whether you're navigating complex family dynamics, struggling with specific challenges, or simply wanting to thrive rather than just survive, Hope Counseling Pittsburgh stands ready to serve as your good neighbor. Connect with them through social media, their website at HopeCounselingPittsburgh.com, or visit their locations in Wexford and Cranberry. Virtual appointments are also available for added convenience.

To learn more about Hope Counseling Pittsburgh go to: 

https://hopecounselingpittsburgh.com/

Hope Counseling Pittsburgh

(724)987 2993

What makes Jeff Hancher with Jeff Hancher Enterprises a good neighbor?  

Can authentic leadership be learned, or are great leaders simply born that way? Jeff Hancher's powerful story proves that with genuine care for people and proper guidance, anyone can develop into an exceptional leader.

Growing up in poverty with two sick parents in Pittsburgh, Jeff's path took him from the military to what was supposed to be a temporary job as a service route driver. That seasonal position transformed into a 25-year career with 12 promotions at a Fortune 500 company, all because leaders saw potential in him and invested in his development. This experience sparked Jeff's passion for leadership and ultimately led him to found Jeff Hancher Enterprises in December 2019.

Jeff challenges the common misconception that leadership ability is innate. Throughout our conversation, he emphasizes that while certain attributes may help, the only true prerequisite for leadership is genuine care for people – everything else can be taught. This philosophy forms the foundation of his workshops, coaching practice, and his national bestselling book "Firm Feedback in a Fragile World."

What makes Jeff's approach particularly compelling is his belief that "leadership transcends business results." As he eloquently states, "The goal is not to be a boss that people report to. The goal is to be a leader that people don't want to let down." This distinction drives his mission to transform organizations by focusing on people first and management second.

The success of his approach is evident in how his business has grown primarily through referrals, with 70-80% of clients now flying into Pittsburgh specifically to attend his workshops. His leadership podcast has surpassed 300 episodes, featuring conversations with nationally recognized thought leaders and providing weekly guidance to listeners worldwide.

Whether you're an established leader looking to refine your approach or someone who aspires to lead others, Jeff Hancher's story demonstrates that leadership excellence comes from being taught, not born. Connect with Jeff at jeffhancher.com or through his book at firmfeedbackbook.com to discover how genuine care for people can transform both your leadership and the lives of those you lead.

To learn more about Jeff Hancher Enterprises go to: 

https://www.jeffhancher.com/

Jeff Hancher Enterprises

(724)263 5799

What makes Terri Shields with JADA House International a good neighbor?  

A lupus survivor transforms personal struggle into community triumph in Hazelwood. That's the remarkable story behind Terri Shields and JADA House International, a multi-generational support organization born from simple kitchen table conversations about neighborhood challenges.

Terri's journey began in 2012 after surviving kidney failure and congestive heart failure. Searching for purpose while completing her bachelor's degree, she started hosting meal gatherings at home where women discussed pressing community issues like gun violence and mental illness. By 2016, these informal gatherings had evolved into a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit, securing its first grant the following year.

What makes JADA House unique is how its programs directly reflect Terri's life experiences. Caring for her father with dementia birthed "Seniors Going Strong," while raising her grandchildren inspired a kinship program for grandparent caregivers. The organization's very name—JADA—honors her oldest grandchildren. The teen program GEMS (Guiding and Empowering Minds for Success) provides etiquette training and career exploration opportunities, while partnerships with local universities like Pitt, CMU, and Duquesne enhance programming across all age groups.

From operating out of her dining room to finally securing a dedicated space on Hazelwood's main street earlier this year, Terri's persistence has created lasting impact. Now 64 years old with a newly minted Master's degree and a nomination to the Council of Aging, she emphasizes that success comes through collaboration and consistency. Despite humble beginnings and health challenges, her service-focused organization has thrived for nearly eleven years.

Ready to witness community transformation in action? Visit JADA House International at 4944 2nd Avenue in Hazelwood or explore their programs at www.jadahouseinternational.com to see how one woman's purposeful journey is creating ripples of change throughout her neighborhood.

To learn more about JADA House International go to: 

www.jadahouseinternational.com 

JADA House International

(412)932 2587

What makes Ian Cain with Cain's Music a good neighbor?  

What happens when life forces you to reinvent yourself? For Ian Cain, the answer was music. After spending 16 years as an archaeologist in the Pacific Northwest, health challenges brought him back to his Pittsburgh roots and pushed him toward a completely different career path. The result? Cain's Music, a thriving guitar instruction business in Pittsburgh's East End that has grown from a personal passion project into a waitlisted service with multiple instructors.

Despite widespread claims that YouTube tutorials and online learning are making traditional music instruction obsolete, Ian's experience proves exactly the opposite. "More times than not, I get met with a lot of people who come in who say that they've tried on their own and it's just not working for them," he explains. The personal feedback and correction that come from having an experienced instructor simply cannot be replicated through a screen. This human element is what keeps students returning and has led to Cain's impressive retention rate.

Smart location strategy has played a crucial role in the business's success. By establishing himself in Pittsburgh's Regent Square neighborhood—an area notably lacking in music instruction options—Ian filled a community need that has fueled consistent growth. His approach to teaching emphasizes joy and engagement while still doing the necessary technical work. "If we're not having fun here, then why are we doing this?" This philosophy guides his instruction and helps students stay motivated through challenging learning phases. Beyond teaching, Ian remains active as a performer, recently appearing at the Northside Music Festival and Three Rivers Arts Festival, bringing firsthand experience and continued passion to his instruction.

Curious about learning guitar or want to discover why so many East End residents are choosing Cain's Music? Visit canemusiclessons.com to learn more about this neighborhood gem that's striking all the right chords in Pittsburgh's music education scene.

To learn more about Cain's Music go to: 

www.cainsmusiclessons.com

Cain's Music

(412)218 9431

What makes Daniel Engen with DRAW Collective a good neighbor?

What happens when architectural design is driven by empathy rather than ego? Daniel Engen from Draw Collective reveals the human-centered philosophy behind their 78-year legacy of creating spaces that truly serve people.

Founded in 1945, Draw Collective specializes in healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and community projects – what Engen describes as "projects that matter in the lives of people." With a team of 44 talented professionals, they approach complex design challenges with both technical expertise and genuine care for how spaces will function for the individuals who use them daily.

Engen shatters the common misconception that architects merely produce blueprints, explaining that clients hire Draw Collective for their specialized knowledge and problem-solving capabilities. "Architecture is quite specialized now," he notes, highlighting how their focused expertise in specific building types allows them to bring valuable insight to each project. This specialization represents years of accumulated knowledge that transforms buildings from mere structures into environments that genuinely enhance human experience.

The conversation reveals Draw Collective's dual approach to marketing – nurturing relationships with clients while simultaneously cultivating an internal culture where continuous learning is valued. "The heart of our business is the people," Engen emphasizes, discussing how mentorship and talent development create the foundation for exceptional design work. Outside the office, his personal passion for building kayaks in his home workshop represents the hands-on creativity that initially drew him to architecture before management responsibilities pulled him away from daily drafting.

What truly distinguishes Draw Collective is their commitment to empathetic design. "We're designing from the inside out," Engen explains, describing how they consider the minute details of how people move through and interact with spaces. This thoughtful approach results in buildings that don't just look impressive but function beautifully for their intended purpose – creating those magical moments when clients see their visions perfectly materialized in physical form.

Want to see how empathetic design is transforming Pittsburgh's landscape? Follow Draw Collective on social media or visit drawcollective.com to discover projects that demonstrate how architecture, at its best, serves people first.

To learn more about DRAW Collective go to: 

https://www.drawcollective.com/

DRAW Collective

(412)561 7117