What makes Ryan-Louis McNeil with Amachi Pittsburgh a good neighbor?  

Breaking cycles of intergenerational trauma requires community support, especially for our most vulnerable young people. Ryan-Louis McNeil joins the Good Neighbor Podcast to share the powerful mission of Amachi Pittsburgh, a nonprofit organization that has been serving youth and families affected by parental incarceration since 2003.

Ryan-Louis reveals how his journey from a decade in banking to nonprofit work was inspired by his mother's dedication to community service. With passion and purpose, he outlines how Amachi Pittsburgh provides comprehensive support through mentoring programs, family strengthening workshops, and reentry services. Their philosophy isn't about "saving" anyone—it's about walking alongside families, uplifting voices, and creating pathways to success for youth who too often face damaging stereotypes about their potential.

One of Amachi's most exciting new initiatives is their mobile outreach unit called "Here For You," bringing resources directly into communities where they're needed most. Ryan-Louis explains how their multi-faceted approach includes school-based mentoring, digital storytelling, and community events to reach families effectively.

Don't miss the upcoming Amachi Pittsburgh block party on July 26th at the Woodland Hills Impact Center, celebrating the launch of their new mobile unit! Follow their journey on social media @AmachiPGH or visit AmachiPGH.org to learn how you can support children and families impacted by incarceration in your community.

To learn more about Amachi Pittsburgh go to: 

https://amachipgh.org/

Amachi Pittsburgh

(412) 281-1288

What makes Joseph Rossi with Wildside Adventures a good neighbor?  

What happens when a lifelong outdoorsman with a knack for storytelling decides to share his global connections with fellow adventure seekers? Joe Rossi's Wildside Adventures emerges as the answer—a luxury hunting and fishing tour company born from passion rather than mere business opportunity.

Rossi's remarkable journey unfolds across this captivating conversation, revealing how his 35-year corporate career at Emerson Electric provided the perfect backdrop for international exploration. His natural curiosity led to weekend hunting and fishing excursions that eventually sparked a decade-long television production showcasing outdoor adventures. Though the TV career ultimately proved unsustainable, the relationships forged with premier lodges worldwide became the foundation for Wildside Adventures.

From modest beginnings with just eight partner locations, Wild Side Adventures now boasts 45 carefully vetted lodges spanning every continent. Rossi's approach stands apart in the travel industry—he personally experiences 60-70% of the destinations he recommends, eliminating the guesswork that typically accompanies expensive adventure planning. His clients, primarily 50-80 year olds with the means and desire for exceptional experiences, benefit from this meticulous attention to detail.

The conversation takes a particularly fascinating turn when Rossi addresses hunting misconceptions, especially regarding African safaris. With passionate eloquence, he explains how regulated hunting has dramatically increased wildlife populations while providing essential protein to villages where children would otherwise go without. His firsthand accounts of delivering meat to grateful communities reveal the profound humanitarian impact these adventures can have.

What truly distinguishes Wildside Adventures is Rossi's commitment to personalization. Whether crafting a couples retreat in Panama with activities ranging from deep-sea fishing to yoga, or designing a South African itinerary featuring hot air balloon rides and game drives, each experience is tailored to exceed expectations. His story of transforming adamant non-hunters into enthusiastic participants illustrates his unique ability to open minds through authentic experiences.

Ready to discover what the world has to offer beyond the ordinary? Visit wildsidejoe.com and join the growing community of adventurers who've discovered that the best journeys begin with trusting an experienced guide.

To learn more about Wildside Adventures go to: 

https://wildsidejoe.com/

Wildside Adventures Travel Services

(412)352-8703

What makes Stephanie Ciranni with Cancer Bridges a good neighbor?  

Finding community during a cancer journey can make all the difference—not just for those diagnosed, but for everyone affected by this life-altering disease. Cancer Bridges stands as a beacon of support in Pittsburgh, offering a remarkable safety net for individuals and families navigating the complex emotional terrain that comes with cancer.

Stephanie Ciranni, Executive Director of Cancer Bridges, brings warmth and personal experience to her leadership role. Having started as a kitchen volunteer making meals for members, Stephanie's journey exemplifies how passion and purpose can align. Her transition from the for-profit sector to nonprofit leadership wasn't without challenges, but as she puts it, "Ten out of ten, I will say it was a big major life change for me, but it has been worth every single minute."

What sets Cancer Bridges apart is their inclusive approach to cancer support. With nearly 200 free monthly programs, they serve anyone impacted by cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, and those grieving losses. Their family and youth programs fill a crucial gap, helping children understand and process a loved one's diagnosis. This comprehensive support acknowledges that cancer affects entire family systems, not just individuals.

Perhaps most remarkable is that everything Cancer Bridges offers is completely free. In a healthcare landscape often defined by financial barriers, they've removed cost as an obstacle to receiving emotional and social support. With over 18,000 members served and approximately 100 new members joining monthly, their impact on the Pittsburgh community continues to grow.

The most common refrain they hear? "I wish I would have known about your services sooner." If you or someone you know has been affected by cancer, reach out to Cancer Bridges. Whether you need support or can help spread the word about their services, you'll be connecting with a community that understands the entirety of the cancer experience.

To learn more about Cancer Bridges go to: 

https://cancerbridges.org/

Cancer Bridges

(412)338-1919

What makes Rachel Strader with Boss Hair Studio & Esthetics a good neighbor?  

Ever wondered why beauty and pain seem to go hand-in-hand? Rachel Strader, owner of Boss Hair Studio & Esthetics, is challenging that notion one client at a time. Born into the craft as the daughter of a hairstylist, Rachel was handling clients by age nine. Though she pursued higher education, graduating from Point Park University, her passion for hair never waned – it just evolved.

"Beauty is not pain," Rachel states emphatically as she describes her salon's specialization in painless braids and gentle protective styles. This philosophy stands in stark contrast to cultural norms that have normalized discomfort, particularly for Black women who regularly wear protective styles. At Boss Hair Studio, clients discover a refreshingly different approach alongside a vegan hair care line designed to promote healthy growth.

Rachel's journey from beauty school graduate to business owner wasn't without challenges. She candidly shares the isolation and mistakes made without proper mentorship, which now fuels her vision to establish educational opportunities for emerging stylists. Between managing her salon and raising five athletic children (including a son headed for the NFL draft), Rachel still finds time for her own artistic pursuits like DJing and playing saxophone. Her story demonstrates how setting proper boundaries became her greatest professional breakthrough, allowing her to create a business where clients don't just get beautified – they leave empowered, educated, and elevated. Ready to experience beauty without compromise? 

To learn more about Boss Hair Studio & Esthetics go to: 

https://bhse.glossgenius.com/

Boss Hair Studio & Esthetics

(412)706-1482

What makes Monica Orluk with Operation Troop Appreciation a good neighbor?  

Monica Orluk's chance encounter on July 4th, 2004 led to a twenty-year journey supporting America's military members through Operation Troop Appreciation (OTA). What started as a mission to send care packages to deployed troops has evolved into a comprehensive support system addressing critical gaps in both active-duty and veteran assistance.

When deployed troops contact OTA from remote locations worldwide, they receive more than just care packages. They get practical necessities often overlooked—portable protein options that fit in pockets during missions, hygiene supplies unavailable at distant outposts, and morale-boosting items that remind them they're not forgotten. These seemingly small comforts make a profound difference in maintaining health, energy, and spirit during deployments.

The organization's most transformative work happens through their Welcome Home Program, launched in 2014 to address an alarming statistic: 70% of veterans transitioning from homelessness would return to the streets within a year, despite receiving housing assistance. OTA's solution is beautifully practical—providing brand-new beds so veterans aren't sleeping on floors, delivering complete home starter kits with everything from pots and pans to cleaning supplies, and offering transportation to critical appointments. These services create the foundation for sustainable independence when government support ends.

What truly sets OTA apart is their volunteer-driven model, ensuring 90% of donations directly fund programs rather than administrative costs. Their newly renovated headquarters in West Mifflin symbolizes their commitment to creating not just services but community for veterans. Whether you're interested in volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, OTA demonstrates how targeted, practical support transforms lives of those who've served our country.

To learn more about Operation Troop Appreciation go to: 

https://operationtroopappreciation.org/

(412)759-0696

What makes Mike Hitt with MCM Studios a good neighbor? 

The world of professional music recording often seems inaccessible to everyday people, but Mike Hitt of MCM Studios is working to change that perception. On this eye-opening episode, we dive into the colorful world (orange, specifically!) of a Pittsburgh recording studio that's been helping musicians of all levels bring their creative visions to life for sixteen years.

Mike shares his remarkable journey from bedroom producer to professional studio owner working with major names like Netflix, Amazon, Jelly Roll, and Gabby Barrett. But what truly sets his story apart is his unwavering commitment to serving what he calls "pro hobbyists" – people who quietly create music as a personal passion without necessarily sharing it with the world. These individuals sense they have talent but don't know how to develop it further, and Mike offers them not just recording services but genuine mentorship.

Perhaps most inspiring is how Mike's own life challenges shaped his business philosophy. After a devastating car accident left him learning to walk again, he found clarity about pursuing his passion without delay. "It helped me overcome the 'when the time is right' mentality," he explains. "Any day could be your last day." This perspective infuses his work with authenticity and urgency that resonates with clients seeking to express themselves through music.

Whether you're nurturing a hidden musical talent, curious about the recording industry, or simply love stories of local businesses making an impact, this conversation offers valuable insights about creativity, perseverance, and finding your voice. Connect with Mike and MCM Studios and discover how your musical dreams might be closer to reality than you think.

To learn more about MCM Studios go to: 

MikeHitt.com

412mcmstudios.com

MCM Studios

(412)403-1086

What makes Rick Mason with The Pittsburgh Project a good neighbor?  

Every child deserves to feel loved, safe, and valued – that's the driving philosophy behind The Pittsburgh Project, a remarkable nonprofit that's been serving youth on Pittsburgh's North Side for 40 years. 

Executive Director Rick Mason brings us inside this vital community organization that offers summer camps, after-school programs, and leadership development opportunities for local youth. With a personal connection to the North Side spanning two decades, Mason shares how his journey from program coordinator to executive director has been fueled by his own experiences as a middle schooler navigating life's challenges. "Having positive adults in my life that influenced me, encouraged me, helped me make good decisions," Mason reflects, "was why I was excited to work with youth at this point in my life."

The Pittsburgh Project's deep roots in the Perry South neighborhood have allowed them to build meaningful partnerships with local schools like Allegheny Traditional Academy and Perry High School. These connections create pathways for students to access their programs, where they receive much more than just supervision – they find mentorship, skill development, and a sense of belonging. As summer temperatures soar, Mason describes pools filled with kids seeking relief from the heat, while inside their facilities, young people participate in activities designed to prepare them for bright futures. Whether through their high school leadership programs focused on job training and college preparation or their year-round youth development initiatives, The Pittsburgh Project remains committed to its core mission: ensuring every child who walks through their doors discovers their inherent value.

Want to learn how your family can benefit from these transformative programs or how you can support their mission? Connect with The Pittsburgh Project through their website at pittsburghproject.org or find them across social media platforms. After four decades of community service, they're just getting started in their mission to empower Pittsburgh's youth.

To learn more about The Pittsburgh Project go to: 

https://www.pittsburghproject.org/

The Pittsburgh Project

(412)321-1678

What makes Kimberly Nussbaum with ASL Friends a good neighbor?  

Have you ever wondered about the profound impact of early language development on a child's future? When Kimberly Nussbaum took American Sign Language as a college requirement, she couldn't have imagined how it would transform not only her life but countless others in the Deaf community.

The remarkable journey of ASL Friends begins with a stroke of serendipity—Kimberly, newly moved to Pittsburgh and working as an interpreter, was randomly assigned to interpret for a keynote speaker who turned out to be Fred Rogers himself. This fateful meeting allowed her to share her vision of creating sign language versions of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood for deaf children. What started as a "cute idea" quickly evolved into a profound mission when Kimberly learned that deaf high school students graduate with an average fourth-grade reading level, severely limiting their educational and career opportunities.

This passionate nonprofit team—Kimberly, Susan Miller, and Laura Clark—now creates immersive ASL programming that enables deaf children and their families to learn up to 70 signs from a single episode. Working with award-winning Deaf producer James DeBee, they've developed a pilot special edition of Mister Rogers' ASL Friends specifically designed for deaf children ages 1-3, a critical period for language acquisition. Their work tackles widespread misconceptions about sign language while addressing the serious consequences of language deprivation in the Deaf community.

ASL Friends embodies the belief that American Sign Language is "for all brains"—beneficial not just for deaf individuals but for anyone with a visual learning style. Whether you're curious about learning ASL yourself, know a family who might benefit from their programming, or simply want to support their mission, visit www.aslfriends.org to discover how this Pittsburgh nonprofit is bridging communication gaps and changing lives one sign at a time.

To learn more about ASL Friends go to: 

https://www.aslfriends.org/

ASL Friends

(724)713-1402

What makes Maria Cohen with Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition a good neighbor?  

Looking for a master class in community building? Maria Cohen's journey from corporate America to leading the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition reveals powerful lessons about neighborhood vitality, collaboration, and finding purpose through service.

When Maria's friend told her "your neighbors need you," little did she know it would launch her into executive leadership of one of Pittsburgh's most impactful community organizations. The Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition operates through 8-12 specialized committees addressing everything from education to litter patrol, bicycle-pedestrian concerns, and even health initiatives—proving that limited resources need not limit community impact.

What makes this organization remarkable is their collaborative approach. While most nonprofits struggle with silos, SHUC thrives through partnerships with the JCC, Center for Loving Kindness, Friendship Circle, local libraries, and neighboring communities like Greenfield and Hazelwood. These connections manifest in vibrant community celebrations including night markets, cultural festivals, and Pride events that stitch together Pittsburgh's diverse neighborhoods.

Perhaps most fascinating is Maria's personal evolution alongside her professional role. When pandemic stress overwhelmed her, sound healing became her sanctuary—eventually leading to certification as a sound healing practitioner. This perfect blend of self-care and community service exemplifies how personal well-being and neighborhood vitality intertwine.

Ready to experience Squirrel Hill's community magic firsthand? Visit their night market this Saturday on Murray Avenue from 6-10pm, check out shuc.org, or follow them on social media. Better yet, let Maria's story inspire you to find your own neighborhood organization and discover how community engagement transforms not just places, but people.

To learn more about Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition go to: 

https://shuc.org/

Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition

(412) 422-7666

What makes Hannah Balash with Bridal Maven a good neighbor?  

Wedding gowns deserve more than one moment walking down the aisle. That's the philosophy driving Bridal Maven, Pittsburgh's answer to sustainable wedding fashion.

Hannah Balash, a veteran bridal stylist with over a decade of experience, founded Bridal Maven after questioning why gorgeous wedding dresses should only be worn for eight hours before being boxed away forever. Located in Dormont beside the historic Hollywood Theater, this unique bridal shop offers contemporary designer gowns at reduced prices through a thoughtful consignment model.

"The creation of a wedding gown is resource intensive," Hannah explains, highlighting the environmental benefits of choosing secondhand bridal wear. Unlike traditional boutiques where brides order dresses months in advance with uncertainty about the final product, Bridal Maven provides an immediate "what you see is what you get" experience. All 350+ dresses in their inventory are professionally dry cleaned, ready to go home, and representative of current styles from the past three years.

The shop attracts diverse customers – practical brides who recognize a wedding is just one day and prefer not to overspend, dedicated resale enthusiasts who already embrace sustainable fashion, and value-seekers with specific style requirements. Hannah's approach makes the experience accessible by listing dresses by street sizes rather than traditional bridal sizing (which she describes as "really silly" and outdated).

Hannah's journey from opera singer to bridal entrepreneur demonstrates how creativity and people skills translate across industries. Her passion for helping women find their perfect dress shines through in her dedication to creating a welcoming environment where brides feel supported, not pressured.

Discover how you can save money, reduce environmental impact, and still look stunning on your wedding day by visiting BridalMavenPGH.com or following @bridalmavenpgh on Instagram. Your dream dress might already be waiting for you – and the planet will thank you.

To learn more about Bridal Maven go to: 

https://www.bridalmavenpgh.com/

Bridal Maven

(724)716-8177