Wilkes-Barre Connect

In this episode, host Dan Kimbrough discusses the Luzerne Learns to Work program with Shanie Mohamed and Alex Piehl from the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce. This innovative initiative aims to prepare high school students for successful careers in Northeast Pennsylvania. The program provides students with a blend of soft and technical skills training, as well as direct c

In this episode, we sit down with Romilda Crocomo, the County Manager of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Romilda provides a fascinating inside look at the role of a county manager, overseeing the day-to-day operations of a large and diverse county with over 1,500 employees. Romilda shares her unique career path, from practicing law in the private sector to becoming a public servant d

In this episode, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Mayor Lombardo the City of Pittston to discuss the city's revitalization efforts and community engagement. Mayor Lombardo shares the importance of effective communication, highlighting initiatives like a quarterly newspaper to keep residents informed. Our conversation explores Pittston's historical context and the mayor's perso

In this episode of The Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Julie Sidoni from WVIA to discuss the critical importance of media literacy in today's information landscape. They explore the rapid changes in media consumption, the distinction between news and information, and the key differences between public and commercial media. Julie shares insights from

In this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Drew Popish, the Northeast Regional Director for Governor Josh Shapiro. They discuss Drew's journey into politics and the importance of youth engagement and diverse representation in advocacy. Drew shares how he initially had no plans to enter politics, but felt compelled to get involved to ensur

In this episode of The Wilkes Barre Connect Podcast, host Dan Kimbrough sits down with Jake Kelley of Mx. Kelley Queer Education LLC to discuss identity, inclusivity and authentic diversity in the workplace. Jake emphasizes the importance of understanding identities beyond surface labels and acknowledging marginalized communities' experiences. They discuss the challenges of inclusi

On this episode of Wilkes-Barre Connect, we discuss the Young Professionals Council and its role in bringing together young leaders in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Former Chair Rachel Stark and current Chair Mollie Boyd share how the group provides opportunities for professional and personal growth while giving back through service. From conferences to fundraising events, learn how Y

On this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, Jacqueline Escobar and our host Dan Kimbrough hold a discussion Connect Coference around barriers to Entrepreneurship and the challenges and opportunities for small business owners in our region. Business leaders like @ParkMultimedia's Dan Kimbrough share real stories of overcoming barriers like lack of funding and building commu

On this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast Zubeen Saeed and Susan Magnotta lead a discussion on workforce development and education in Northeast Pennsylvania. The conversation includes local professionals and covers career exploration, pathways to education, and opportunities to get students exposed to different careers at an early age. Show Notes - Junior Achievement i

On this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect Podcast, we hear from Maryanne Velez from the United NEPA Alliance and Vivian Williams from the Scranton Area Community Foundation. They discuss data on rising rents and the lack of affordable housing options. We also hear from college students and young professionals discussing concerns about remaining in the area after graduation. Solut