Search a title or topic

Over 20 million podcasts, powered by 

Player FM logo

WITF Podcasts

show episodes
 
Artwork

1
The Spark

WITF, Inc.

icon
Unsubscribe
icon
icon
Unsubscribe
icon
Daily
 
When people come together and talk about really interesting topics, great questions spark better understanding and opportunities for new ideas to form. On The Spark from WITF, host Asia Tabb starts conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.
  continue reading
 
Artwork
 
Smart Talk is a daily, live, interactive program featuring conversations with newsmakers and experts in a variety of fields and exploring a wide range of issues and ideas, including the economy, politics, health care, education, culture, and the environment. Smart Talk airs live every week day at 9 a.m. on WITF's 89.5 and 93.3.
  continue reading
 
Artwork

1
Grapple

Keystone Crossroads

icon
Unsubscribe
icon
icon
Unsubscribe
icon
Monthly
 
From small towns to big cities — Grapple gives voice to people living and working in distressed communities. Through personal narratives and long-form storytelling, you hear conversations that tell the story of America’s profound economic and social changes — including how distressed communities have changed over time, what they’re grappling with today, and how they’re redefining themselves. Grapple’s first season takes you to a series of communities across Pennsylvania that were once vibran ...
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
Dr. Tia Jackson-Truitt, Director of Staff & Community Engagement at the Penn Museum, joins us to talk about the Museum’s annual Kwanzaa celebration and the meaningful partnerships with local communities, artists, performers, and Black-owned businesses that make the event possible. also on the program... Christmas is one of the busiest times of the …
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) This episode brings together two moments of community significance across Pennsylvania. First, we look at history in the making in Lancaster, where Jaime Arroyo has been elected the city’s first Latino mayor, winning 85% of the vote ahead of his January 5, 2026 inauguration. We discuss what this milestone means in a city where more than …
  continue reading
 
Asia spotlights two powerful stories rooted in service, culture, and community. (00:00:00) One guest shares a remarkable personal connection to the Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development, which celebrates its 90th anniversary next March. Seventy-four years ago, Schreiber (then the Easter Seals Society) helped correct a severe speech impediment,…
  continue reading
 
Expecting a baby is stressful under the best of circumstances, but financial uncertainty can make it even harder. Ali Groves, Associate Professor at Drexel Dornsife School of Public Health and Research Chair of the mothers and Infants Cash Coalition, has spent years studying how cash transfers can improve reproductive and maternal health outcomes. …
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA, Emily Previti of PA Capitol Star, Carter Walker of Votebeat PA, and Jordan Wilkie of WITF share their favorite stories of 2025 in this special year in review journalist roundtable. (00:22:28) Crohn’s disease is part of a larger group of illnesses called inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Crohn’s disease is a ch…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) In this compelling episode, we sit down with two leaders whose impact spans very different worlds but shares a common thread of purpose. Legendary Special Olympian and advocate Loretta Claiborne reflects on her extraordinary journey of resilience, inclusion, and lifelong advocacy for athletes with intellectual disabilities. (00:22:30) Th…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) SNAP benefits are coming back—but is that actually good news for everyone? We’re talking about what the return of SNAP really means, especially for expecting mothers who were hit hard by cuts and confusing policies. Who’s being helped, who’s still struggling, and what can families realistically expect going forward? (00:22:27) We’re also…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) In this episode, we uncover two remarkable stories where tradition and place intersect in unexpected ways. First, we turn to the quiet legacy of Hollywood icon Jimmy Stewart, whose deep pride in his Indiana, Pennsylvania roots led to the creation of a humble yet powerful museum honoring his life as an actor, WWII hero, family man, and gl…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Hop on the Magic School Bus for an interplanetary adventure, both on stage and in the real world. In this episode, we look at The Magic School Bus Live! a new musical adaptation that sends Ms. Frizzle and her class hurtling through the solar system when a field trip goes delightfully off course. As our local NPR/PBS station, we explore w…
  continue reading
 
Historian Chrissie Senecal joined The Spark to explore how people throughout history have understood comets and meteors, especially long before modern science could explain what was happening in the sky. With the Geminid meteor shower lighting up December skies and holiday traditions top of mind, the conversation tied celestial events to seasonal s…
  continue reading
 
In this episode, we dive into three critical conversations shaping Pennsylvania’s political, economic, and public-health landscape. (00:00:00) First, Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA joins us to discuss her reporting on the use of taxpayer dollars for security upgrades at Governor Josh Shapiro’s private residence. She explains what her investigati…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) We explore a growing challenge facing millions of Americans: the nationwide doctor shortage that’s making routine appointments harder to get, especially in rural and underserved communities. (00:23:02) Cumberland County athletes rallied at Ace Pickleball Club in Enola, PA, pushing through a nonstop 48-hour pickleball match to break a wor…
  continue reading
 
This episode weaves together the wonder of winter—from the skies above to the houseplants on your windowsill. (00:00:00) We explore how ancient cultures interpreted comets and meteors before the Scientific Revolution, just in time for the annual Geminid meteor shower and the stories surrounding the Star of Bethlehem. (00:22:28) Then we bring things…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Pam Miller, UPMC Tobacco Cessation Health Educator talks with Asia Tabb about the myths and misconceptions around smoking and vaping. (00:22:03) Dan Tomaso talks with Asia about this week's weather forecast, plus what we can expect this coming winter. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for pr…
  continue reading
 
In this festive episode, we explore the magic behind American Music Theatre’s 2025 Christmas Show, celebrating the sights, sounds, and spirit of the season. We also spotlight Pennsylvania’s Blue Ribbon School awardees, honoring outstanding achievement and educational excellence across the state. Plus, we take a journey through the State Museum’s Am…
  continue reading
 
Chesapeake Bay officials elected Gov. Josh Shapiro to lead a regional agreement to help clean and restore the waterway. he first-term Democrat will take the reins at a tumultuous time for the forty-year-old partnership. Gov. Josh Shapiro says he’s going to break Pennsylvania from its history of taking a BACKSEAT to Chesapeake Bay conservation. The …
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Chesapeake Bay officials elected Gov. Josh Shapiro to lead a regional agreement to help clean and restore the waterway. he first-term Democrat will take the reins at a tumultuous time for the forty-year-old partnership. Gov. Josh Shapiro says he’s going to break Pennsylvania from its history of taking a BACKSEAT to Chesapeake Bay conserv…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Chad-Alan Carr is the new Mayor of Gettysburg, after his November election win. Carr defeated incumbent Rita Frealing in the May Democratic primary by a few dozen votes. Carr, an at-large member of the Gettysburg Borough Council, campaigned on improving transparency in the mayor’s office and delegating certain authorities to the Borough …
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Justina remained stuck on probation. Not because she posed any safety risk, but because she couldn’t afford the last $500 of restitution she owed. Despite finishing jail time, rehab, and community service, her probation kept restarting every six months due to the unpaid balance. Without a driver’s license following her DUI conviction, sh…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) We are joined once again by Catherine Lawrence of Midtown Scholar and Travis Kurowski of York College to recommend some holiday book selections for you and your loved ones! (00:22:26) A letter signed by 237 faith leaders from diverse religious traditions across Pennsylvania will be delivered to state lawmakers urging them to pass compreh…
  continue reading
 
Broadway comes to Lancaster this holiday season with Elf the Musical, and local audiences are in for a treat. Ben Fankhauser, who plays Buddy the Elf, said performing at the Fulton Theatre has been a special experience. “I have fallen in love with the Fulton Theater and I hope that Lancaster residents realize that they have a Broadway-caliber perfo…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM), and the call to action is "All in for National Epilepsy Awareness Month.” (00:21:59) Pediatricians are speaking often and openly with parents who are anxious about the safety of vaccines amid changing federal policies (00:33:48) Dan Tomaso and Asia Tabb speak about what weather we can…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Buddy the Elf takes on New York City in Elf the Musical at The Fulton Theatre. Asia speaks with Broadway star Ben Fankhauser and Director/Choreographer Maura Newberry Greer. (00:22:14) The Pennsylvania Public Relations Society (PPRS) marked its 75th anniversary on November 8, with a celebration in Cumberland County. This year’s celebrati…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Susquehanna Art Museum presents If Herr Street Could Talk, the homecoming exhibition of award-winning abstract artist and Harrisburg native, Alteronce Gumby. (00:21:47) Franklin and Marshall College have announced a major initiative designed to make the Lancaster-based private school more affordable. Under the program known as Commonweal…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Move Past Plastic founder Tamela Trussell says her organization exists to help communities better understand the growing dangers of single-use plastics in the region. “The heart of our mission is to be a resource for understanding the complexities and potential harms of single-use plastic,” she said, noting that the group works with part…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) We are joined by 2 officials of the Lancaster County Community Foundation, CEO Sam Bressiand Executive Vice President Tracy Cutler, as well as Robin Stauffer, Executive Director of the High Foundations to talk all things ExtraGive. (00:22:16) Penn State Dickinson Law Prof. Stanley Brand, a Distinguished Fellow in Law and Government, will…
  continue reading
 
((00:00:00)) Elizabethtown College is transforming history education with its Public Heritage Studies program, led by director Jean-Paul Benowitz. This immersive, community-driven approach takes students beyond the classroom into Pennsylvania’s rich cultural landscape, preparing them for careers in archives, museums, and historic sites through hand…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) This Giving Tuesday, The YCSPCA want you to know how you can give compassion to those who need it most, our favorite furry friends. (00:22:14) Move Past Plastic (MPP) is a grassroots organization in Central Pennsylvania. They are a collective of individuals, businesses, and organizations working to mitigate the toxic impacts of plastic t…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) President and CEO Mary Quinn talks about the 18th Annual Pursuit of Justice Purse Auction, featuring designer purses in a live and silent auction. Proceeds benefit the YWCA Legal Programs. (00:22:48) Nov. 19 is National Women's Entrepreneurship Day (Women's Entrepreneurship Day Organization) and November is National Entrepreneurship Mont…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Located across the river from downtown Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania Regional Ballets launches this year's Nutcracker season. (00:21:54) The 34th Annual Will Huffman Toy Train Expo is "gathering steam" and bringing traditions to hundreds of children and families across Central Pa. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See o…
  continue reading
 
Horticulturalist Erica Jo Shaffer reunites with Scott and brings him a "tasty treat" as they talk about fall lawn and garden cleanup as well as care for mums and Christmas trees. Dr. Amanda Cheromiah, Executive Director at the Center for the Futures of Native Peoples at Dickinson College discusses the initiative dedicated to advancing the understan…
  continue reading
 
During today's Journalist Roundtable we look more in-depth on some stories that have flown under the radar. We're joined by Katie Meyer and Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA, the online statewide news service, and Brett Sholtis, who reports for the Philadelphia Inquirer. All three are veterans of WITF's newsroom. Also, after a float depicting the gate to th…
  continue reading
 
Shila Ulrich, CEO and Zach Zook, Chief Strategy Officer at the Central Pennsylvania Foodbank discuss food insecurity in Central Pennsylvania as the holiday season approaches. Mystery and thriller author David Baldacci to discusses the Wish You Well Foundation that he founded with his wife as well as his latest release "Nash Falls" and its upcoming …
  continue reading
 
Horticulturalist Erica Jo Shaffer reunites with Scott and brings him a "tasty treat" as they talk about fall lawn and garden cleanup as well as care for mums and Christmas trees. Dr. Amanda Cheromiah, Executive Director at the Center for the Futures of Native Peoples at Dickinson College discusses the initiative dedicated to advancing the understan…
  continue reading
 
Today is Veterans Day – a day to honor all those who have served in the United States Military. First up, our guest is: (00:00:00) Major General Michael E. Wegscheider is the Division Deputy Adjutant General-Army for Pennsylvania's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and was the General of the 28th Infantry Division. He’ll talk about the DM…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) More than 15 hundred people have died as the result of domestic violence in Pennsylvania over the past ten years. Many more people are living in abusive relationships or homes. Domestic violence is more than physical violence against someone. Often it can be emotional or financial abuse directed at someone. Domestic violence is a scourge…
  continue reading
 
Lancaster native Jesse Krimes has turned personal experience into a powerful artistic voice. While serving a prison sentence in his twenties, Krimes used art to process his experiences and reclaim his humanity. What began as a survival tool behind bars has grown into a career that has taken his work from makeshift materials in prison to major museu…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Reporters Carter Walker of Votebeat and Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA will join us to review the results of Tuesday's election, which includes the Mayoral Election in Harrisburg and the retention vote for three PA Supreme Court justices. (00:21:19) With an estimated 59 million unpaid caregivers in the U.S., many individuals find themsel…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) November 19 marks the anniversary of the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg. The Gettysburg National Cemetery is famous throughout the world today as the site of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered at the cemetery's dedication ceremonies four and a half months after the battle. (00:21:43) WITF Reporte…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Jesse Krimes is a multimedia artist whose work is now featured in the MET. He spoke with Asia Tabb at WITF's Premier Circle event last week. This is that interview. (00:31:26) Dr. John R. Haddad is the author of a new book, “Thrill Ride: The Transformation of Hersheypark.” Dr. Haddad is professor of American Studies and Popular Culture a…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Prodigy Spectrum Management is York's first and only facility housing homeless veterans and supporting them while they get back on their feet. (00:23:17) YWCA's Veterans Services provides a full range of employment readiness services to eligible homeless veterans seeking employment and self-sufficiency. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) 717 Vintage Fest features a selection of the region’s most established and up-and-coming vintage stores and independent vendors. Learn more about why we should shop vintage, the differences between vintage shopping and thrifting at other stores, and more. (00:21:57) Today marks the start of National School Psychology Week, and we celebra…
  continue reading
 
This week on The Spark Weekly we highlight two important conversations on Disabilities. At St. James Episcopal Church in Lancaster, a new three-day program called Encountering Disability is sparking dialogue about faith, inclusion, and the human experience. The event, running November 1–3, brings together community partners, advocates, and educator…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) As Pennsylvania voters prepare for next Tuesday’s elections, local journalists gathered to provide insights on the candidates, races, and issues shaping the ballot. The discussion featured Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Jade Campos, Tom Lisi, and Ashley Stalnecker of LNP/Lancaster Online. (00:22:17) On October 4, 2025, a local Braver…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) A new centerpiece now graces the Women’s History Garden at the Civic Club of Harrisburg: The Garden Goddess, a living tribute to generations of women who have shaped the community. (00:22:02) Nearly four decades after overcoming her own struggles with addiction, Bucknell University Professor Judy Grisel has dedicated her life to understa…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Every second counts when it comes to a stroke, says Lauren Swartz, Nurse Navigator with the UPMC Neurological Institute. Ahead of World Stroke Day, Swartz joined The Spark to remind listeners that knowing the warning signs—and acting fast—can save lives. (00:20:24) as spooky season approaches, historian Chrissy Senecal says that monsters…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) We learn about Roblox new initiative for parents that will help inform them on how to educate their children to interact safely online. (00:22:13) Adam Zurn shares local ghost stories with us in honor of Halloween week. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) Encountering Disability is a series of free events over three days focused on community health and public policy as well as community inclusion and spirituality. Asia speaks with keynote speakers Marisa Brown and Michael Gamel-McCormick, as well as Rev. David Peck who spearheaded the initiative. (00:22:04) Consumer Affairs recently publi…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month—a time to celebrate second chances and spread awareness about the thousands of animals waiting for homes. At the York County SPCA, the mission is clear: every pet deserves a loving, permanent home. (00:21:29) A new community resource is taking shape in Harrisburg — and it’s not your typical library. T…
  continue reading
 
(00:00:00) State College’s NPR station, WPSU, will continue broadcasting after all, following a new partnership agreement with Philadelphia’s WHYY. The plan, unanimously approved by Penn State trustees, allows WPSU-TV and radio to join WHYY without requiring a $17 million subsidy from the university, which was a sticking point in a previously rejec…
  continue reading
 
Loading …
Copyright 2025 | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | | Copyright
Listen to this show while you explore
Play