The Spark

How can parents and educators better understand the way children learn? On this episode of The Spark, Heather Strunk, Head of School at The Janus School, discusses how recognizing students’ individual strengths and challenges can lead to more effective support both at home and in the classroom.

Drawing on her experience working with students with learning differences, Heather explores why academic struggles are sometimes mistaken for a lack of effort, what parents should look for when a child is having difficulty, and how conversations with children can reveal challenges that grades alone may not show. She also shares practical guidance on working collaboratively with teachers, knowing when to seek additional evaluation, and helping students build confidence, independence, and self-advocacy skills.

The Appalachian Trail is more than a hiking path. It’s a source of adventure, challenge, community, and unforgettable stories. On this episode of The Spark, we explore life on and beyond the trail with three guests deeply connected to the Appalachian Trail experience: Michael Slade Lindgren, co-founder and brewer at Lindgren Craft Brewery; Julie Queen, manager of the Appalachian Trail Museum and a 2016 AT thru-hiker; and Lee “All Good” Keegan, a 2023 AT thru-hiker and Central Pennsylvania educator who has logged more than 4,500 backpacking miles on long-distance trails around the world.

The conversation highlights the culture of thru-hiking, the lessons learned from months spent on the trail, and the enduring connections hikers form with each other and the places they visit. Guests share personal stories of perseverance, trail community, and the ways hiking can foster confidence, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.

Many people think OCD is just about cleanliness or organization, but the condition often shows up in less obvious ways. In this episode of The Spark, licensed counselor Chelsea Goody, LCPC, LPC, owner of Goody Counseling Services in Hanover, helps listeners recognize the OCD symptoms that frequently go unnoticed.

Chelsea specializes in treating OCD and anxiety disorders using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD. She discusses common signs such as repetitive checking, constant reassurance-seeking, intrusive doubts, and the feeling that it’s impossible to move forward without complete certainty.

The conversation also explores misconceptions families often have about OCD, what effective treatment actually looks like, and how individuals can find specialized support. With a style that is direct, practical, compassionate, and often humorous, Chelsea makes complex mental health topics accessible while offering valuable insights for those living with OCD, anxiety, or supporting a loved one.

What happens when two women with opposite political views choose friendship over division? In this episode of The Spark, we meet two Bloomsburg residents, both named Karen, whose unlikely friendship became a powerful example of constructive dialogue in a polarized America.

Karen Cotter, a retired social worker and mediator, and Karen Ward, a retired state police officer and conservative Trump supporter, first connected through Braver Angels in 2018. Despite their political differences, they discovered shared life experiences, built trust, and developed a friendship that has endured through multiple election cycles. Their story gained national attention when they were featured on a 2020 Guardian podcast exploring whether friendship can survive political disagreement.

The Karens discuss how respectful listening, finding common ground, and relationship-building have helped them navigate difficult conversations on hot-button issues. They also share how their involvement with Braver Angels has equipped them with practical skills for bridging divides, strengthening communities, and fostering understanding across differences.

In this episode of "The Spark", we speak with two different shops, that focus on creating fun third spaces:

 Asia sits down with the owners of Pop’s Culture Shoppe, a locally owned game store built on the belief that games are about much more than entertainment.

Julian and Anja share how their backgrounds in comics, education, art, science, and preservation inspired them to create a space where people can gather, play, learn, and connect. Since opening in 2012, Pop’s Culture Shoppe has become a true "third space" for its community, offering something increasingly rare in today’s world: meaningful, face-to-face connection.

The conversation explores the value of locally owned game stores, the importance of storytelling and imaginative play, and how shared experiences around a game table can build friendships across generations and backgrounds. From fostering creativity to creating a sense of belonging, this episode highlights why community spaces like Pop’s Culture Shoppe matter now more than ever.

Dungeons & Dragons has grown from a niche tabletop role-playing game into a worldwide cultural phenomenon. In this episode, Asia explores why the game continues to captivate players across generations and how collaborative storytelling creates lasting connections.

Joined by representatives from Lancaster Troll Market, the conversation dives into the evolution of D&D, the power of imagination and shared adventure, and the unique way tabletop gaming bring people together. We discuss the importance of community gathering spaces where players can step away from screens, build friendships, and immerse themselves in creative worlds.

Whether you're a longtime Dungeon Master, a curious newcomer, or simply interested in the role that games play in fostering connection, this episode highlights how role-playing games create belonging, encourage creativity, and strengthen local communities.

NPR Chief Economics Correspondent Scott Horsley joins the podcast for a conversation about the stories shaping the U.S. economy and how those developments affect every day Americans. With decades of reporting experience, including covering the White House during both the Obama and Trump administrations, Horsley offers insight into economic trends, public policy, inflation, employment, and the challenges facing communities across the country. We also discuss the evolving role of journalism and what it takes to explain complex economic issues in a way that resonates with listeners.

Internationally acclaimed guitarist and composer Jesse Cook joins the podcast ahead of his November 21 performance at Tellus360 in Lancaster. Known for blending flamenco, world music, jazz, and Latin influences into a distinctive sound, Cook has built a global following through decades of touring and award-winning recordings. In this conversation, he reflects on his musical journey, the inspirations behind his latest work, what keeps his live performances fresh, and what audiences can expect when he takes the stage at Tellus360. Plus, we explore how music can connect cultures and create unforgettable concert experiences.

On The Spark, we’ll talk about how Lancaster is becoming a place for new theatrical works to take shape, with a special benefit featuring award-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Known for musicals including Godspell, Pippin and Wicked, as well as film projects such as Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt, Schwartz came to support Prima Theatre’s efforts to develop new plays, musicals and concerts while making those experiences accessible to more people. 

As artificial intelligence reshapes the digital world, many families are rethinking how they share photos, milestones, and personal memories online. In this episode, we explore the growing concerns around privacy, data ownership, and social media, and discuss how families can stay connected while maintaining greater control over their personal content.

Joining the conversation are OurFamily+ co-founders Billy and Rachel, who share the inspiration behind creating a private family-sharing platform designed to help people preserve memories and foster meaningful connections without relying on traditional social media. Billy, a software engineer, writer, and media preservationist, and Rachel, a software engineer and artist, discuss the challenges modern parents face when balancing convenience, connection, and privacy.

They are joined by Shelley and Ashley, two OurFamily+ users who offer personal perspectives on how families across generations navigate sharing family moments in today's digital landscape. Together, the guests explore the decisions parents make when posting about their children, the impact of AI on online privacy, and practical ways families can remain connected while protecting what matters most.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on the latest advances in breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. In this episode, UPMC breast surgeon Dr. Matthew Pierotti discusses why early detection remains one of the most powerful tools in improving outcomes, with localized breast cancer having a five-year survival rate of more than 99%.

In a world where music, movies and television are just a click away, a growing number of Gen Z consumers are rediscovering physical media. From vinyl records and CDs to DVDs, Blu-rays, film cameras and even VHS tapes, these formats are finding a new audience among young people who grew up with streaming. On The Spark, we’ll talk with Bob Rehak, a scholar of film, media and popular culture, about what’s behind this renewed interest and why some consumers are choosing tangible collections over digital access.

Could a historic Central Pennsylvania home really be the “Scariest House in America”? On this episode, we explore the story of Fox Manor, a former nursing home turned family residence in Lower Paxton Township that was featured on HGTV’s Scariest House in America. Homeowners Greg and Erin share the eerie history of the 1860s Victorian property, from unexplained footsteps and slamming doors to strange household incidents that have fueled claims the house may be haunted. We also discuss the competition hosted by Retta, in which frightening homes from across the country vie for a $150,000 renovation from designer Alison Victoria. Plus, we look at the dramatic finale, where the winning home receives a transformation from “frightening to fabulous.” Join us for a conversation about historic preservation, paranormal tales, and what it’s like to see a local home showcased on national television.

After a spring conversation about a fresh staging of Henry IV, Part 1 in Lancaster, we reconnect with director Justin Hopkins and actor/fight director Dan Griffin as they prepare for Henry IV, Part 2. Now producing independently, the team discusses the next chapter in Prince Hal’s journey, the challenges and opportunities of launching an independent production, and how the themes of Shakespeare’s history play resonate with modern audiences. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at bringing Henry IV, Part 2 to the stage and continuing an ambitious Shakespearean story in Lancaster.

Could a historic Central Pennsylvania home really be the “Scariest House in America”? On this episode, we explore the story of Fox Manor, a former nursing home turned family residence in Lower Paxton Township that was featured on HGTV’s Scariest House in America. Homeowners Greg and Erin share the eerie history of the 1860s Victorian property, from unexplained footsteps and slamming doors to strange household incidents that have fueled claims the house may be haunted. We also discuss the competition hosted by Retta, in which frightening homes from across the country vie for a $150,000 renovation from designer Alison Victoria. Plus, we look at the dramatic finale, where the winning home receives a transformation from “frightening to fabulous.” Join us for a conversation about historic preservation, paranormal tales, and what it’s like to see a local home showcased on national television.

We sit down with Kyle A. Huffman, author, BMX historian, and founder of Lititz BMX, to discuss his new book, The Fireside Story of: Harry Leary. What began as the purchase of a single BMX collectible connected to legendary rider Harry "Turbo" Leary unexpectedly evolved into the discovery of the "Leary Locker," a treasure trove of memorabilia, stories, photographs, and forgotten pieces of BMX history.

Kyle shares how a simple curiosity became a years-long journey of research, community, and connection. Along the way, he built relationships with friends, family members, and fellow racers who helped uncover the man behind the BMX legend. He also opens up about the personal side of the story, revealing how the project arrived during a challenging chapter of his life and gave him a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

We welcome Anne Darling, co-founder and creative force behind The Farm at Catawissa Creek, a 131-acre regenerative farm in Catawissa, Pennsylvania. With a background in fashion design, wellness, yoga, and bodywork, Anne brings a unique perspective to the intersection of agriculture, natural living, and sustainable fashion.

Anne shares the story of how she and her husband, David, became stewards of their farm's forests, pastures, and waterways, and the philosophy that guides their commitment to regenerative agriculture and responsible land management. We explore how Merino sheep, laying hens, bees, and medicinal herbs work together to create a thriving farm ecosystem.

We’re joined by Dillon Beede, Director of Choral Activities and Chair of Music at Wilson College, to discuss the call for submissions for ArtsFest 2027, taking place April 5-9 at Wilson College in Chambersburg. This year’s theme, “ART IS... PRESENCE,” invites visual, performing, and literary artists, as well as arts educators, to share their work and engage the community through performances, workshops, exhibitions, readings, immersive experiences, and more. Dillon shares how ArtsFest has grown into a regional celebration of creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression, and explains how local artists and organizations can get involved before the November 15 proposal deadline. Learn more and submit a proposal at wilson.edu/artsfest.

We celebrate the 2026 Cumberland County Historical Society History Award recipients, recognizing the individuals, organizations, and projects that have made outstanding contributions to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of Cumberland County and the surrounding region.

We highlight honorees including Sherron Biddle, recipient of the Roger K. & Helen E. Todd Distinguished Service Award; the Patriot’s Path Committee, honored as Historian of the Year; Friends of Peace Church, recognized for historic preservation; and Don Paul Shearer, recipient of the Leadership in History Award. We also spotlight the J. Sherwood McGinnis, Jr. War, Peace, and Justice Project and Carmen James for their impactful community contributions.

Why is Gen Z embracing DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, vinyl records, and other physical media in the age of streaming? In this episode, we explore the surprising resurgence of physical formats among a generation raised on digital convenience. From concerns about losing access to favorite movies and music on streaming platforms to the appeal of ownership, collectability, and film preservation, physical media is becoming more than a nostalgic novelty. For many young consumers, building a collection is also a form of identity, community, and a welcome break from constant digital consumption.

Joining us is Bob Rehak, media scholar, author, and professor whose work examines media history, fandom, special effects, and transmedia culture. Drawing on decades of research and publications in film, communication, and media studies, Rehak helps unpack what this renewed interest in physical media reveals about the changing relationship between audiences, technology, and cultural preservation. Together, we discuss why tangible media still matters and what its comeback says about the future of entertainment.

We sit down with Tanya Weaver, CEO of the American Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA), and Brad Gebhart, AFCA’s Chief Relationship Builder, to discuss the organization’s mission of supporting children who have been orphaned, abandoned, or marginalized because of HIV/AIDS through no fault of their own. AFCA works alongside caregivers and local communities to provide critical medical care, educational resources, emergency relief, sanitation and hygiene support, and sustainable livelihood programs that create lasting change.

Tanya and Brad share the story behind AFCA, the organization’s impact across Africa, and how initiatives such as Climb Up and Vacation with a Purpose are empowering families and strengthening communities in Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Through powerful success stories and firsthand experiences, they highlight the life-changing difference that compassion, opportunity, and community support can make for vulnerable children and families around the world.