Casey Krell (cfmv.org), the inspiring president of the Community Foundation in Youngstown, joins us for a heartfelt discussion on gratitude and generosity. Despite starting her marketing and public relations career, Casey found her true calling in the nonprofit sector, using his communication skills to support community causes. She shares the challenges and rewards of fundraising and how her career evolved into a mission of giving back and becoming a beacon of hope and change in the community.

We explore innovative philanthropic practices and the pivotal role of community foundations in shaping a better tomorrow. Listen as we explore how even small contributions can grow into significant support through endowed funds that can help individuals leave lasting legacies. You'll hear about impactful initiatives addressing food access issues and the transformative power of events like Giving Tuesday, which magnifies donations through matching contributions.

Join us for a lively discussion on local eats featuring Youngstown favorites like Bellaria and La Villa, and discover a unique twist—try spaghetti sauce on your pizza. We emphasize the importance of family traditions of giving, especially around Giving Tuesday, encouraging families to pick a cause close to their hearts. With insights from the Community Foundation Mahoning Valley and touching stories from the Autism Society, we celebrate the spirit of giving and the personal connections that make community philanthropy so meaningful.

Have you ever wondered how love can endure through the chaos of war? Join us in a heartfelt conversation with Vietnam veteran Butch Shood and his wife, Joyce, as they share their incredible love story that began on roller skates and survived the trials of Vietnam through the exchange of audio tapes. Their story, filled with resilience and devotion, offers a profound glimpse into the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, showcasing the strength of the human spirit during times of conflict.

We also bring you the gripping experiences of a Vietnam War truck driver, whose tales of navigating the dangerous roads of Saigon in a deuce and a half truck reveal the harsh realities faced by soldiers on the front lines. His accounts of tense convoy attacks and the camaraderie that was crucial for survival paint a vivid picture of the challenges and quick thinking required in the war zone. These personal anecdotes offer listeners a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War's impact on those who served, highlighting the tension and the bonds formed amidst adversity.

Reflecting on the broader lessons of military service, we explore the enduring values instilled in veterans, from the profound significance of the American flag to the emotional journey of returning home and transitioning to civilian life. With stories of pride, achievements, and the therapeutic power of storytelling, this episode celebrates the unique experiences and contributions of veterans like Butch and Harry, honoring their service with gratitude and admiration. Join us for a thoughtful exploration of the sacrifices and triumphs of those who have bravely served our country.

Unlock the secrets to a healthier and more vibrant you by tuning into our latest episode of the VIP Cafe Show! We're starting with Lucia Cerimeli, the visionary owner of Color Vanity Glam Medi Spa https://colorvanitybeauty.com/. Lucia's journey from a makeup artist battling skin issues to a holistic health advocate is inspiring. She reveals the innovative beauty and recovery treatments she's brought to Youngstown, making luxury accessible for everyone without breaking the bank. 

Get inspired by the transformative power of natural health and beauty solutions. We dive into the essential conversations about societal pressures and how holistic approaches can improve self-esteem for both men and women. You'll also hear success stories illustrating how embracing wellness early can help you sidestep the dreaded holiday weight gain. Discover how advanced body scans and fun fitness tools, like digital boxing and Pilates reformers, can make achieving your health goals enjoyable. 

And there's more! Our episode takes a heartwarming turn as we explore themes of resilience and authenticity. An unexpected encounter in Los Angeles brings forth valuable life lessons, and we delve into the importance of gratitude and risk-taking. Lucia shares her bold decision to open her spa in Youngstown, defying the odds and initial doubts. As the holiday season approaches, we highlight exciting promotions and new services to help you or a loved one step into the new year with renewed vitality. Don't miss out on this enlightening and motivational episode!

What happens when you mix an entrepreneurial spirit with a penchant for processes and systems? Join us in the cozy back room of Havana House for an insightful chat with Tim Petrey, CEO of HD Growth Partners, as he shares his journey from his family business to washing semi-trucks in college. Discover how these formative experiences laid the groundwork for his understanding of business systems and the importance of transferable skills like accounting. Tim's story highlights how these skills have been pivotal in his career, offering valuable insights for aspiring business owners and investors.

Unravel the transformative power of generosity and gratitude in building a resilient company culture. Through the story of an ambitious individual who turned setbacks into stepping stones, we delve into how mentorship and a strong sense of purpose can lead to unexpected success, even amid challenging times like the pandemic. The conversation underscores the significance of creating a contagious company culture that not only withstands adversity but thrives because of it, ultimately driving growth and fostering resilience in individuals and the organization.

We also explore the profound impact of meaningful client relationships. By working with clients who value openness and change, businesses can create a positive cycle of mutual success. Tim shares insights into how personal motivations, especially for second-generation entrepreneurs, can propel one toward success by overcoming adversities and pushing beyond boundaries. Finally, we wrap up practical networking tips for LinkedIn, emphasizing its role as a powerful tool to connect with Tim and the HD Growth Partners team while expressing heartfelt gratitude to our listeners and participants for their unwavering support.

Curious about the transformative power of urban development? Join us on the VIP Cafe Show for an enlightening conversation with Eric Holm, the visionary Executive Director of Youngstown Jubilee Urban Development. We kick off the episode with our co-hosts Debbie Larson and Greg Smith, who shed light on the unique role of a Discussion Master at the local Toastmasters club, fostering open and engaging dialogues on various topics. Eric takes center stage to share his inspirational journey from a successful career in tech to a newfound passion for classical architecture and urban restoration. His love for Youngstown's historic pre-1940s architecture and the community's unwavering spirit form the foundation of Jubilee's mission.

In the second part, we spotlight the remarkable efforts to revive the iconic South High School, a landmark in Youngstown. Discover how alumni and community members can make a lasting impact through various naming rights and volunteer opportunities. Learn about the historical significance and stunning design of the school's auditorium, crafted by Charles Owsley, and its potential as a vibrant community hub once restored. We wrap up with heartfelt reflections on high school experiences, emphasizing the deep sense of nostalgia and community spirit driving these revitalization efforts. Don't miss this captivating discussion on preserving Youngstown's rich architectural heritage and fostering a stronger, more connected community.

What if you could transform life's messiest moments into laugh-out-loud stories? On this episode of the VIP Cafe Show, we have the pleasure of chatting with Sharla Haun, a seasoned lawyer-turned-humor coach who teaches business professionals to find the funny in life's most stressful situations. Sharla takes us on her journey from a 25-year legal career to teaching English composition with a comedic twist at the University of Akron. We hear about the creative assignments she gave her students, the humor that blossomed from them, and how even those who didn't consider themselves funny learned valuable humor skills.

We also get a sneak peek into Sharla's upcoming book, "Have Fun With Your Faults," which promises to help readers turn their most cringe-worthy moments into comedic gold. Sharla shares her insights on the power of self-reflection, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how embracing our stories can unlock unexpected creativity. Additionally, we dive into stand-up comedy, discussing the importance of storytelling, the nerve-wracking first performance, and the critical distinction between 'punching up' and 'punching down.' Join us for an engaging conversation highlighting how self-acceptance and humor can transform our flaws into our greatest strengths.

How does one go from higher education to becoming the first black female cider owner in Ohio? Meet Hannah Ferguson, the dynamic force behind Dope Cider House and Winery in Youngstown. After facing a tough job market and battling depression, Hannah discovered her passion for wine-making right in her mom's apartment, starting with just 10 gallons of Riesling and Shiraz. Join us as she shares her remarkable story of resilience, creativity, and the journey from academia to cider crafting.

In this episode, we explore the entrepreneurial spirit that propelled Hannah to success. Hear about the unique challenges she faced while establishing her cider house, and how she pivoted from a winery to a cider house after recognizing local market preferences. Discover the creative freedom she enjoys in crafting diverse flavors, the adventures with lesser-known grape varieties, and the continuous learning process in the beverage industry. Hannah also reveals the trials of experimenting with fruit wines, particularly the colorful challenges posed by strawberry wine.

But it's not all business—Hannah reflects on the importance of mentorship, the impact of community support, and a memorable People's Choice award. In a fun rapid-fire segment, we get to know her personal favorites, from music to vacation spots. Finally, Hannah talks about her favorite creation at Dope Cider House, the cherished "diamond wine," and invites listeners to visit her establishment in downtown Youngstown. Don't miss this engaging episode brimming with inspiration, personal insights, and a taste of Hannah's favorite products.

What if you could transform your life from factory floors to motivational stages? Join us as we sit down with John Ruble, a dynamic consultant coach from Achieve Your Dreams, who has done just that. John shares his inspiring journey of how a single book, "The Art of Living" by Bob Proctor, ignited his passion for helping others achieve their goals. Listen as he discusses the importance of setting stretch goals and overcoming the "terror barrier" that often holds people back. You'll hear incredible success stories of clients, including a state representative and entrepreneurs who have expanded their businesses, illustrating the profound impact of mentorship on the path to ambitious dreams.

This episode also delves into the power of small, positive changes in daily habits and mindset shifts. John highlights strategies like waking up an hour earlier for study and shifting from an "I can't" to an "I can" attitude, particularly in resilient communities like Youngstown. The conversation takes a fun twist as Debbie and John share personal preferences and memorable experiences, from favorite pizza spots to childhood jobs at amusement parks. Debbie wraps up with an empowering message about continuously striving for more and not journeying alone. At the same time, John underscores the ongoing adventure of self-improvement and the critical role of a coach in achieving one's dreams.

What if a single act of kindness could change the course of your life? Join us on the VIP Cafe Show as we welcome April Mason, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and owner of the enchanting Christmas Cafe in Boardman, Ohio. Hosts Greg Smith and Debbie Larson kick things off by recounting Greg's recent trip to the magnificent Gaylord Opryland in Nashville before diving into April's extraordinary journey. You'll hear about April's early aspirations of acting in Los Angeles and the winding path that led her to unexpected life changes and personal growth.

April's story is a powerful testament to resilience and faith. From living in shelters to starting her first business with just $50, she shares her incredible journey through adversity, guided by a prophetic dream and bolstered by community support. Hear how a friend's generosity provided her with a fresh start in Georgia, emphasizing the transformative power of kindness. This episode is rich with touching moments, including the theft of her handmade gift baskets and how she turned every hardship into an adventure for her children.

Finally, bask in the magical ambiance of April's Christmas Cafe, a haven for people from all walks of life. Hear heartwarming tales of patrons finding joy and solace within its cozy walls, and stick around for a lively discussion on favorite foods and local recommendations. From debates about the best French fries in Youngstown to the charm of April’s cafe, this episode is a heartwarming and inspiring look at the power of determination, community, and a dash of holiday spirit.

Feel the pulse of Youngstown's jazz heartbeat as Jeff Green, president of Jazz in the Park, takes us on a melodious journey through the event's 31-year history. Wick Park comes alive in our conversation, echoing the soulful notes of generations of musicians and the laughter of families that have transformed this local celebration into a unifying force. We pay tribute to the seasoned artists whose legacies reverberate through the community and explore how this jazz fest has become a symphony of unity, joy, and artistic expression.

Imagine an event where the smooth allure of jazz meets the rich bouquet of fine wine. That's the vibrant scene we paint as we discuss the upcoming Jazz and Wine Fest at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater. We go behind the scenes, giving a nod to the musicians who pour their heart into every performance, and the unsung heroes like Cheryl who make these events possible. Dive into the eclectic blend of tunes and tastes awaiting at the amphitheater, and hear about the innovative ideas, like a barbecue battle, that add a flavorful twist to the experience.

As our episode winds down, we highlight the importance of community support and engagement with Jazz in the Park. Discover how you can get in tune with these cultural events through our website and social media, and join us in fostering young talent within the arts. We tease the possibility of an extended evening of jazz and wine on July 3rd, ensuring an experience that resonates beyond the final note. And, while we express our gratitude to Havana House for being a gracious host, remember that the true spirit of jazz lies in the connections we make and the support we show for the arts in Youngstown.