What makes Tess Inman with Cristina Panaccione and Associates a good neighbor?  

Ever felt embarrassed to ask for mental health support? You're not alone. Therapist Tess Inman shares how her own struggles finding help in the 90s led her to a 13-year career breaking down barriers to therapy access.

For Tess and the team at Christina Panaccione and Associates Counseling, vulnerability isn't weakness—it's strength. Their female-led practice has spent a decade fighting the persistent myth that therapy is only for those with "something wrong." As Tess explains, trauma is subjective, and everyone faces struggles, especially as we collectively recover from the global trauma of COVID-19.

With two physical locations in the Pittsburgh area (McMurray/Canonsburg and Robinson) and comprehensive virtual services, this practice is removing obstacles to mental wellness. They provide school-based services across four districts and treat clients across the entire lifespan. Their team includes specialists certified in grief counseling, EMDR trauma treatment, and Gottman couples therapy—ensuring that whatever your needs, there's someone qualified to help.

What sets this practice apart is their commitment to holistic care. When working with children in schools, they often extend support to entire families. Their diverse team uses various therapeutic approaches, making mental healthcare more accessible and tailored to individual needs. Whether you're dealing with everyday challenges or more complex issues, their message is clear: seeking help is normal, natural, and necessary.

Ready to prioritize your mental health? Visit cpa-counseling.com, call 412-439-1416, or find their clinicians on Psychology Today. Taking that first step toward self-care might be the most powerful choice you make today.

To learn more about Cristina Panaccione and Associates go to: 

cpa-counseling.com

Cristina Panaccione and Associates

(412)353 5299

What makes Gina Scheller with Ingomar Auto Tags a good neighbor?  

Ever wonder where to go when you need to register or title your vehicle? Gina Scheller from Ingomar Auto Tags joins us to clear up common misconceptions about motor vehicle services in Pennsylvania. Unlike many states with local DMV branches, Pennsylvania's main department is located only in Harrisburg, making motor vehicle agents like Gina essential for handling your vehicle documentation needs.

Gina shares her journey from stay-at-home mom during COVID to becoming a problem-solving expert in the motor vehicle industry. She explains the crucial difference between photo license centers (which only handle driver's licenses) and motor vehicle agents like herself who process all vehicle-related paperwork. This distinction saves Pennsylvania residents unnecessary trips and frustration when dealing with automotive documentation.

What makes Ingomar Auto Tags special is Gina's dedication to solving problems. "I don't necessarily think I've ever turned anybody away," she notes, emphasizing her commitment to helping customers navigate even the most complex vehicle registration issues. Whether contacting banks, lien holders, or state offices, Gina embraces challenges to find solutions for her clients. When not helping customers with their vehicle paperwork, she enjoys camping in Harmony, PA with her two young daughters. Need assistance with your vehicle documentation? Stop by Ingomar Auto Tags, email, text, call, or reach out through Facebook to get the help you need.

To learn more about Ingomar Auto Tags go to: 

https://ingomarauto.com

Ingomar Auto Tags

(412)318 4146

What makes Tonya Edinger with Weddings of Pittsburgh a good neighbor?  

Ever wonder what happens when a DJ business transforms into a wedding planning powerhouse? Tonya Edinger's journey from helping her husband's weekend DJ gigs to building Weddings of Pittsburgh reveals the power of identifying needs and creating solutions in the events industry.

Tonya shares how a modest $14,000 investment against their 401k in 1999 grew into multiple businesses including Weddings of Pittsburgh, Events of Pittsburgh, and Event Rentals of Pittsburgh. Her story demonstrates remarkable business acumen and adaptation, particularly during COVID when she pivoted to larger venues and complimentary rentals to keep celebrations alive while maintaining safety protocols.

What sets Tonya's approach apart is her design-focused, highly communicative planning style. She conducts detailed consultations that pinpoint exact preferences, creates venue mockups to visualize concepts, and maintains monthly check-ins throughout the planning process. "When people are telling you no, we're finding a way to say yes," she explains, highlighting her commitment to advocacy for her clients. Drawing on psychology and sociology training, she skillfully navigates complex family dynamics that often emerge during wedding planning, gently reminding parents that "it's not a redo for them" while honoring their desire to contribute.

For couples considering the DIY route, Tonya offers valuable perspective: "Yes, you can DIY, but then at the end, who are you going to give this baby that you've been nurturing to?" Her insight underscores the importance of having trusted professionals handle the culmination of months of planning, even for budget-conscious couples. Ready to explore stress-free wedding planning? Connect with Tonya through Instagram @PittsburghWeddingPlanner or at weddingsofpittsburgh.com for a consultation that could transform your special day.

To learn more about Weddings of Pittsburgh go to: 

www.weddingsofpittsburgh.com

Weddings of Pittsburgh

(724)968 7135

What makes Bryan Ghingold with Steel City Notary a good neighbor?  

Ever found yourself needing a document notarized at an odd hour, perhaps even in your pajamas? Bryan Ghingold of Steel City Notary has made convenience his cornerstone. His journey, from notarizing reports for his own moving company to becoming one of Pittsburgh's leading Remote Online Notaries, truly exemplifies how traditional services can seamlessly adapt to modern demands.

What truly distinguishes Steel City Notary is Bryan's commitment to accessibility through technology. He belongs to an exclusive group—just two percent of Pennsylvania notaries are certified to perform remote online notarization (RON). This innovative approach proved invaluable during the pandemic and continues to break down barriers for clients who are hospitalized, traveling abroad, or simply prefer the ease of notarizing from their living room. Bryan clarifies that notaries are essentially "human CAPTCHAs," verifying the identity of the signers. 

Beyond his professional dedication, Bryan's innovative spirit extends to creative pursuits like filmmaking and 3D printing, reflecting a dynamic approach to a traditionally conservative field. He's available to notarize at any hour, ensuring clients receive essential services whenever- and wherever- they're needed. To experience document signing reimagined for the digital age, visit steelcitynotary.com!

To learn more about Steel City Notary go to: 

https://steelcitynotary.com/schedule-an-appointment/

Steel City Notary

(412)254-6424

What makes Wendy Neely with Butt Naked a good neighbor?  

Forget everything you thought you knew about wellness spas. Wendy Neely's Butt Naked in McCandless Township isn't just another trendy self-care spot—it's a revolution in how we approach our bodies.

With their playful tagline, "Whether it's your face or your waist, we've got you covered," Wendy and her team have spent over a decade pioneering vegan, organic approaches to beauty and wellness that work with your body's natural processes rather than against them. The results speak for themselves: from EU-compliant skincare that delivers actual results, to cryo facials that offer a needle-free alternative to Botox, Butt Naked is changing how people feel about their reflection.

What sets this wellness sanctuary apart is Wendy's 30 years of experience and her refreshingly rational approach to body image. She dismantles toxic relationships with food with blatant honesty, teaches clients to navigate social situations without anxiety, and offers eight different spa services—including non-invasive body contouring, infrared saunas that burn 600 calories per session, and Pittsburgh's only private Himalayan salt room. The philosophy here isn't about quick fixes or unsustainable diets; it's about consistency, understanding your unique body, and making peace with the mirror. As Wendy powerfully states, "The body that you're in doesn't have to be the body that you continue to live in," and she proves it's possible to transform without chemicals or extreme measures.

Ready to experience what could be Pittsburgh's best-kept wellness secret? Find Butt Naked on social media, visit their newly redesigned website to shop their skincare line worldwide, or simply stop by their McCandless location. Your face, your waist—and your whole self—will thank you for it.

To learn more about Butt Naked go to: 

Buttnakedpgh.com

Butt Naked

(412)837 1170

What makes Catherine Montague with Montague Design a good neighbor?  

Luxury interior design isn't just about beautiful spaces—it's about creating environments that truly reflect and support the people who inhabit them. Catherine Montague brings a distinctly European sensibility to this approach, infusing her designs with what she playfully calls a "French-sational sense of fun."

Born and educated in France, Catherine's path to interior design began unexpectedly during a semester at San Diego State University, where she fell in love with American culture. After relocating to New York and working in home furnishings, she discovered her passion for transforming spaces. This international perspective gives her a unique advantage in understanding diverse architectural styles and adapting her designs accordingly.

Montague Design specializes in comprehensive interior architecture for both residential and commercial projects. Far beyond simply selecting furniture, Catherine's team designs custom cabinetry, fireplace details, wall and ceiling features, and coordinates everything from flooring to plumbing fixtures. This holistic approach ensures cohesive, thoughtfully crafted spaces that balance beauty and functionality. What truly distinguishes her practice, however, is her deeply collaborative process—working closely with clients, architects, and contractors as a unified team.

Catherine's business philosophy centers on three core values: love for her craft and clients, empathy in understanding each client's unique needs without judgment, and bringing joyful energy to every project. Beyond her design work, she leads a giving circle called "Inspired Women, Paying it Forward," raising funds for women's charities locally and globally—a reflection of her commitment to community and connection.

Ready to transform your space with luxury design that truly speaks to who you are? Discover Catherine's approach at montaguedesign.com or connect through Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to see how French-inspired design might elevate your home or business.

To learn more about Montague Design go to: 

https://montaguedesign.com/about/

Montague Design

(412)638 2696

What makes Erica Sumpter with Ida’s Sandwich Shop a good neighbor?  

Hungry for more than just another sandwich? Step into Ida's Sandwich Shop, where every bite tells a story of neighborhood transformation and culinary passion.

When Erica Sumpter and her business partner realized their Observatory Hill community lacked walkable food options, they didn't just complain—they created a solution. Despite neither having restaurant experience and facing the catastrophic timing of starting construction just as COVID hit, they persevered. Their dedication to quality and community has transformed what could have been just another café into a neighborhood hub where customers feel like family.

"We are not a fast food restaurant," Erica proudly states, challenging the misconception that sandwiches must be quick and thoughtless. At Ida's, each creation is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients on quality bread. Their approach balances hearty indulgence with healthy options, all made with the same attention to detail. This commitment to excellence extends beyond their menu to the atmosphere itself, consistently described by visitors as having "good energy" and a "great vibe."

What truly sets Ida's apart is their willingness to customize and create. "If we have the ingredients, we are going to do it for you," promises Erica, embodying their customer-first philosophy. This flexibility, combined with their resilience through pandemic challenges, has allowed them to thrive when many established restaurants faltered. Their journey from homemade "gourmet sandwiches" made from refrigerator finds to a beloved community cornerstone demonstrates how passion and neighborhood connection create sustainable success.

Ready to experience Pittsburgh's neighborhood sandwich revolution? Visit Ida's at 3921 Perrysville Avenue in Observatory Hill or order online at idassandwichshop.com. Follow their culinary adventures on Instagram @idas_PGH or call 412-208-9944 to discover why locals and travelers alike keep coming back for more than just great food.

To learn more about Ida’s Sandwich Shop go to: 

www.idassandwichshop.com

Ida’s Sandwich Shop

(412)208-9944

What makes Kelly Hughes with Foster Love Project a good neighbor?  

Every child deserves dignity, especially those facing the trauma of foster care. Kelly Hughes, founder of Foster Love Project, transforms this belief into action every day for children across the Pittsburgh region.

Kelly's journey began in 2013 when she and her husband became foster parents. After welcoming eight children into their home, they identified critical gaps in support that inspired the creation of Foster Love Project. Now celebrating ten years of service, this grassroots organization has grown into a vital community resource serving approximately 1,000 children annually.

What makes Foster Love Project special is their compassionate problem-solving approach. Kelly challenges the all-too-common narrative of vilifying biological families whose children enter foster care. "There is a lot of vitriol and disparaging families whose kids enter foster care," she explains. Instead, she recognizes the profound trauma experienced by both children and parents during separation and advocates for providing support to keep families together whenever safely possible.

The organization's free shopping center allows foster children to select clothing, shoes, toiletries, books, and bedding—providing essential items with dignity and choice. Their back-to-school program equips 250 children with backpacks, school supplies, new shoes, and sweatshirts, ensuring they start the academic year confident and prepared.

Even during the pandemic, when facing facility closure and service disruptions, Kelly's team pivoted to curbside appointments and secured a new location three times larger than before. This remarkable resilience speaks volumes about their commitment to ensuring no child feels forgotten in the system.

Want to make a difference? Foster Love Project welcomes volunteers, financial donations, and contributions through their Amazon wishlist. Visit fosterloveproject.org or find them on social media to join this powerful community supporting our most vulnerable neighbors. Together, we can ensure every child knows they are seen, valued, and worthy of love.

To learn more about Foster Love Project go to: 

https://www.fosterloveproject.org/

Foster Love Project

(412)819-5908

What makes Marita Garrett with Civically Inc. a good neighbor?  

Removing barriers isn't just a catchphrase for Marita Garrett and Civically Inc—it's a mission that's transformed Pittsburgh's East End for a decade.

When Marita founded Civically Inc as a councilwoman in Wilkinsburg, she recognized a fundamental truth: people facing immediate needs like hunger or lack of clothing couldn't meaningfully participate in civic life. This realization birthed a revolutionary approach to community service where anyone who can make it to their programs qualifies for help—no questions asked, no ID required.

"We want to meet and address the immediate needs of our community members so that we can promote civic education and literacy," Marita explains. From the Free Store Wilkinsburg (celebrating 10 years!) to the Fresh Market partnership with Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, to career development resources, Civically Inc addresses interconnected community challenges with a holistic approach.

Marita doesn't shy away from challenging industry norms, particularly the troubling expectation that nonprofit workers should struggle financially while serving others. "We're dealing with livelihood of humans," she points out, questioning why organizations addressing food access and housing aren't prioritized for full operational funding. Her perspective comes from lived experience—including overcoming ovarian cancer at just 20 years old—which taught her to focus on positive energy and intentional relationships.

Whether you can volunteer a few hours, donate items, share their social media posts, or contribute financially, Marita emphasizes that no contribution is too small. Visit civicallyinc.org to learn more about their services and discover how you can support their vital community work. After ten years of breaking barriers, they're just getting started.

To learn more about Civically Inc. go to: 

www.civicallyinc.org

Civically Inc.

(412)916-4552

What makes Tim Maloney with Dirt Doctors Cleaning Services a good neighbor?  

What happens when life's setbacks become your greatest opportunity? Tim Maloney, founder of Dirt Doctors Cleaning Service, joins Leila Carter to share how being fired from his job in 1994 with a two-week-old baby at home became the catalyst for launching a successful business that's still thriving nearly 31 years later.

Tim takes us through the origins of Dirt Doctors, which began as a residential cleaning service but evolved into a comprehensive commercial cleaning operation serving offices, churches, event spaces, retail locations, and medical facilities. With refreshing candor, he dispels common misconceptions about the cleaning industry, particularly the notion that companies secure contracts only to provide diminishing service over time. His company's 30-day out clause keeps them accountable and focused on consistent quality.

Beyond business insights, Tim opens up about his personal journey of entrepreneurship, sharing how he's overcome the mental challenges of maintaining confidence through difficult periods. He credits his success to what Angela Duckworth calls "grit"—the powerful combination of perseverance and passion—along with the support of business communities like Truth at Work. As Tim says, "You can't do it by yourself." His story serves as powerful testament to how relationships, genuine care, and staying the course can transform a moment of career crisis into decades of business success.

Want to build a business that stands the test of time? Listen to Tim's journey and discover how caring for clients, team members, and vendors creates the foundation for sustainable growth. Check out Dirt Doctors at dirtdoctorscleaning.com or find them on social media to learn more about their services.

To learn more about Dirt Doctors Cleaning Services go to: 

https://dirtdoctorscleaning.com/

Dirt Doctors Cleaning Services

(412) 726-0800