The Spark

What began with opening a family home to wounded soldiers has grown into one of Pennsylvania's leading veteran support organizations. In this episode, Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors co-founder Helen Sajer reflects on two decades of helping veterans in crisis, inspired by gratitude for her son's military service. Joining her is Dennis Leonard, a combat veteran who lost both legs in Iraq and whose life was transformed through the nonprofit's support. Their stories offer a powerful look at compassion, recovery, and the enduring bonds of the veteran community.

Later in the episode Lisa Landis Fickes, Director of Development and Communications at Mission Central, joins us to explore the incredible work happening behind the scenes at one of the nation's leading humanitarian aid organizations. From disaster relief and medical equipment programs to volunteer engagement and global partnerships, Lisa shares how Mission Central mobilizes resources to respond to crises both near and far.

What does it take to run a humanitarian organization that serves millions of people around the world from right here in Pennsylvania?

In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Landis Fickes, Director of Development and Communications at Mission Central, to explore the incredible work happening behind the scenes at one of the nation's leading humanitarian aid organizations. From disaster relief and medical equipment programs to volunteer engagement and global partnerships, Lisa shares how Mission Central mobilizes resources to respond to crises both near and far.

We welcome Melissa from the Mid-Atlantic Reptile Expo, an event dedicated to supporting the reptile hobby through education, community engagement, and responsible animal care. Melissa shares how the expo brings together families, hobbyists, and reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels, featuring more than 100 tables of reptiles and opportunities to learn from experienced breeders and keepers. We discuss the importance of ethical breeding practices, responsible reptile ownership, and how building connections within the reptile community helps ensure a sustainable future for the hobby. Whether you're a longtime reptile enthusiast or simply curious about these fascinating animals, this conversation offers valuable insights into the mission and impact of the Mid-Atlantic Reptile Expo.

In this episode, we explore the rich history and founding of Lititz, Pennsylvania, with Cory Van Brookhoven, President of the Lititz Historical Foundation. A third-generation Lititz historian, Cory has led the Foundation since 2013, authored four books on Lancaster County history, and written more than 300 local history articles. He shares the fascinating story of Lititz's origins, dating back to 1742 and the early influence of the Moravian Church, including the historic visit of Count Nicholas Louis von Zinzendorf to the area. History enthusiasts and Central Pennsylvania listeners alike will enjoy this engaging look at the people, events, and heritage that shaped one of the region's most treasured communities.

NPR’s popular Podcast Challenge is expanding in a new direction with the launch of the Senior Podcast Challenge, a nationwide storytelling competition designed for adults age 65 and older. In this episode, we discuss the inspiration behind the challenge, how seniors can participate, and why NPR is encouraging older Americans to share their unique voices and life experiences. From stories of love, family, health, and finances to reflections on the past and hopes for the future, the challenge offers a platform for meaningful personal storytelling. Tune in to learn how listeners can get involved and hear how this innovative project aims to capture the wisdom, memories, and perspectives of a generation with stories worth preserving.

Join us for a conversation with Haley O'Brien, Community Impact Reporter at WITF, as she shares some of the compelling stories she's covering across Central Pennsylvania and gives us a look at projects currently in the works. Haley discusses the people, communities, and issues shaping the region, from local government and public health to community development and unique Pennsylvania stories. With a passion for multimedia storytelling and connecting audiences to their communities, Haley offers an inside look at how local journalism uncovers the stories that matter most. It's a fascinating behind-the-scenes conversation for anyone interested in news, storytelling, and the issues impacting Central Pennsylvania.

What began with opening a family home to wounded soldiers has grown into one of Pennsylvania's leading veteran support organizations. In this episode, Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors co-founder Helen Sajer reflects on two decades of helping veterans in crisis, inspired by gratitude for her son's military service. Joining her is Dennis Leonard, a combat veteran who lost both legs in Iraq and whose life was transformed through the nonprofit's support. Their stories offer a powerful look at compassion, recovery, and the enduring bonds of the veteran community.

As Sandi’s Breads celebrates its 20th anniversary, founder and co-owner Sandi joins The Spark to share the story behind one of central Pennsylvania’s most distinctive bakeries. For two decades, Sandi’s Breads has milled whole grains fresh on-site for every loaf and pastry, long before artisan baking became a mainstream trend. Sandi discusses craftsmanship, traditional European baking techniques, the evolving appreciation for whole grains, and what it takes to build a values-driven business that serves both its customers and community.

We explore Mothers on the Move (MOM), a Penn State College of Medicine-led initiative founded by Dr. Vida Abedi to support first-time mothers and their families through partnered dance, social connection, and community engagement. Joined by community leaders Priscilla Fias and Janeen Christ, the program aims to reduce isolation, strengthen family bonds, and create a supportive network for new parents. Learn how local fundraising efforts made the first free pilot program possible, the role dance plays in promoting well-being, and how Central Pennsylvania communities are coming together to help families thrive.

In this episode, we celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Emeritus Hazel I. Jackson, a pioneering educator who spent nine years fighting racial and gender discrimination before becoming one of Lancaster’s most influential teachers. As the first Black educator in the School District of Lancaster, Jackson dedicated more than four decades to empowering students through education and community service. We explore how her perseverance led to a school being named in her honor, the impact of the Hazel I. Jackson Foundation, and its ongoing mission to remove barriers for students through scholarships, educational programs, community initiatives, and a centennial campaign aimed at inspiring the next generation. This is a story of resilience, justice, and the lasting power of one person’s commitment to opening doors for others.

What happens when a personal health concern sparks a thriving business? Katie and Eric Roering, founders of Lancaster, Pennsylvania-based Fontana Candle Company, set out to create non-toxic candles after traditional candles caused headaches. What began as a small operation in their home has grown into a nationwide manufacturing business with a 22-person team and customers across the country.

WildHeart Ministries is making a lasting impact in Harrisburg's Allison Hill neighborhood through affordable housing, community development, and neighborhood revitalization. In this episode, we sit down with Tannon Herman, co-founder and executive director of WildHeart, to discuss the nonprofit's newly launched affordable housing project and its mission to rebuild, restore, and revive one of the city's most historic communities.

More than 220 miles of the Appalachian Trail weave through Pennsylvania, winding across mountains, valleys, and streams—and right through the heart of central PA. This iconic footpath stretches 2,197 miles from Georgia to Maine, challenging hikers from all walks of life to take part in one of the most grueling and inspiring outdoor adventures in the country.

This week, The Spark team set out to meet some of these determined “thru-hikers” by offering a little surprise comfort along the way—what trail veterans fondly call “Trail Magic.” Armed with a cooler full of cold drinks, fresh fruit, and snacks, we set up at a parking area just off Interstate 81 in Lebanon County near the Swatara Rail Trail, a well-known access point for hikers passing through.

What happened next was nothing short of magical.

The Spark ‘Meeting Hikers of the Appalachian Trail’ got second place in the Radio II Podcast category for the Keystone Media Awards.

As summer wraps up in Pennsylvania, Asia Tabb sits down with Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary of Tourism Anne Ryan for a postmortem look at how the Commonwealth handled a busy summer filled with major events, festivals, and visitors. They discuss what went well, the challenges along the way, the economic and tourism impacts across the state, and what Pennsylvania learned from the experience. It's a chance to assess the results of the preparation efforts discussed earlier this year and explore what the season ultimately meant for Pennsylvania's communities, businesses, and tourism industry.

Dauphin County Coroner Graham Hetrick is calling for stricter regulation, and potentially a statewide ban, on kratom, a widely available substance he says has been linked to deaths in central Pennsylvania. Sold in gas stations and convenience stores with few restrictions, kratom has sparked growing concern among public health and medical professionals. On this episode of The Spark, we examine what kratom is, why some people use it, the health risks associated with it, and the debate over regulation. Experts in addiction medicine, toxicology, and emergency care join the conversation to discuss the science, public safety concerns, and what Pennsylvanians should know about this controversial substance.

Dauphin County Coroner Graham Hetrick is calling for stricter regulations, and potentially an outright ban, on kratom, a widely available but largely unregulated substance sold in convenience stores and gas stations across Pennsylvania. Hetrick says the drug, which has opioid-like effects, has been linked to local deaths and poses serious health risks, including seizures, liver failure, and, in some cases, death. He is urging parents to be aware of its availability and calling on state lawmakers to take action.

Joining the conversation are Dr. Sara Kawasaki, Division Director of Addiction Services at Penn State College of Medicine, and Dr. Robb Bassett, Associate Medical Director of the Poison Control Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and an expert in emergency medicine, medical toxicology, and addiction medicine. Together, they discuss what kratom is, why it remains controversial, the potential benefits and risks associated with its use, and what increased regulation could mean for public health and safety in Pennsylvania.

This episode features Rev. Jim Grossnickle-Batterton and Rebekah Priest, organizers of PeaceFest: Forging Peace & Cultivating Justice Together, a family-friendly community event taking place September 19, 2026, in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Representing local Church of the Brethren congregations, Jim and Rebekah share the vision behind PeaceFest and the importance of fostering peace, justice, and community engagement in today's world.

Harrisburg Opera Association is launching its first complete season in more than 20 years, marking a major milestone in the organization's evolution toward a multidisciplinary arts festival serving Central Pennsylvania. Artistic and Executive Director Tami Swartz joins us to discuss the exciting 2026 season, which includes the free outdoor concert Opera in the Park: Battle of the Sexes featuring Broadway, television, and film star Rachel York, a new visual arts and therapeutic program, and the world premiere of The Velveteen Rabbit, a children's opera by composer Michael Gamon.