Lancaster Connects

Hosted by Jeff Giagnocavo, Ben McClure

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251

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Lancaster Connects brings together local charities, local heroes, and local businesses to showcase the best of what Lancaster, PA has to offer so that in 2021 and beyond – our local neighbors and friends may thrive, be more productive, and live happily and generously. The Lancaster Connects Podcast is hosted weekly by Gardner's Mattress & More co-owners Ben McClure & Jeff Giagnocavo, and can be viewed on numerous streaming services as well as listed to on your favorite podcast platforms.

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June 15, 20261 hr 1 min

The Truth About Credit Repair Featuring Kevin Faulkner - Episode 250

In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Faulkner, founder of 3B Credit Health, to discuss his journey from overcoming personal credit challenges to building a thriving credit education and restoration company. Kevin shares how he launched 3B Credit Health in 2020 with nothing more than an iPhone, a $50 printer, and a commitment to helping others achieve financial success. Rooted in small-town values and a personalized approach, his company has helped more than 1,000 clients improve their credit, purchase homes, and create stronger financial futures through customized 3B Credit Success Plans. Tune in to hear Kevin’s inspiring entrepreneurial story, practical credit insights, and advice for anyone looking to take control of their financial future.???? Connect with Kevin Faulkner: ✅ Website: https://3bcredithealth.com/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinfaulkner3b ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.faulkner.353 ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinfaulknertexas/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

June 8, 20261 hr 1 min

Beyond the Vacation: Creating Family Memories Through Travel Featuring Monica Forte - Episode 249

In this episode, we sit down with Monica Forte, owner of Making Magical Vacations Travel, to explore how her 37 years in the travel industry have helped countless families and travelers create unforgettable vacation experiences. Monica shares how she and her team of Magical Specialists help clients maximize their time, save money, and get the absolute most out of every trip — whether it’s a dream family getaway, a magical destination vacation, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Tune in as Monica explains the difference between a “magical” vacation and a “tragical” one, and why personalized travel planning can make all the difference. If you’re ready to travel smarter and stress-free, this episode is packed with expert insights and inspiration for your next getaway.???? Connect with Monica Forte: ✅ Website: https://makingmagicaltravel.agency/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-forte-2619241b/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmvacationstravel Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

June 1, 20261 hr 7 min

Upgrade Your Sleep We'll Fuel Your Summer - Episode 248

In this episode, Ben & Jeff discuss how upgrading your sleep can help you stay refreshed, energized, and ready to enjoy the summer season. The conversation explores the importance of quality rest, key factors to consider when shopping for a new mattress, and how better sleep can support overall wellness and daily performance. Tune in for practical insights on enhancing comfort, improving recovery, and making smart choices when investing in better sleep.Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster County — we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small, David vs. Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

May 25, 20261 hr 2 min

Lancaster’s Favorites: The Businesses We Love & Why Your Vote Matters - Episode 247

In this episode, hosts Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo team up as Lancaster’s local “dynamic duo” to break down the LNP Reader's Choice Awards — what they are, why they matter, and how community support can make a real impact on local businesses like Gardner's Mattress & More. The guys share why voting in local awards helps spotlight trusted businesses, strengthens the local economy, and builds stronger community connections. They’ll also share their official voting link for the mattress store category: https://lnpmediagroup.voterfly.com/category/11525/mattress-store Plus, Ben and Jeff dive into some of their favorite local businesses around Lancaster and discuss the people, products, and experiences that keep them coming back.???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

May 18, 202658 min

Answering the Call: The Future of Blue Rock Fire Rescue Featuring Duane Hagelgans - Episode 246

In this episode, Duane Hagelgans shares his decades of experience in the fire service and his ongoing commitment to community safety. As Fire Commissioner for Blue Rock Fire Rescue—an organization he helped establish in 2011—Duane discusses the department’s role serving six miles of Manor Township and Millersville Borough, as well as the current campaign to build a new station for its dedicated volunteers. With an impressive 48-year career, including his retirement from Lancaster City in 2011, Duane offers valuable insights into leadership, emergency response, and the evolution of fire services. He also reflects on his work shaping future professionals as a professor and program coordinator of emergency management at Millersville University.???? Connect with Duane Hagelgans: ✅ Website:https://www.bluerockfire.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Blue-Rock-Regional-Fire-District/100064674767355/# Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

May 11, 20261 hr 7 min

2026 Memorial Day Preview at Gardner's Mattress & More - Episode 245

In this episode, Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo preview the 2026 Memorial Day event at Gardner’s Mattress & More, focusing on how upgrading your sleep can help you feel more energized all summer long. The conversation covers why quality rest matters, what to consider when choosing a new mattress, and how holiday promotions can make better sleep more attainable. Tune in for practical tips on boosting comfort, supporting overall wellness through sleep, and making the most of limited-time savings.Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

May 4, 20261 hr 2 min

Meet Drew Bleil, Lancaster’s Newest Sleep Science Coach - Episode 244

In this episode, we meet Drew Bleil, Sales Manager at Gardner’s Mattress & More and Lancaster’s newest sleep science coach. Drew shares how over a decade in the mattress industry has shaped his passion for helping people improve their health, recovery, and daily performance through better sleep. He talks about his thoughtful, no-pressure approach to working with customers, why personalized sleep solutions matter, and what people often get wrong when choosing a mattress. We also dive into Drew’s life outside the showroom—from his background as a classically trained pianist to his love of roller coasters and all things Star Trek—offering a well-rounded look at the person behind the expertise.???? Connect with Drew Bleil: ✅ Website: https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/ ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gardnersmattressandmore Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

April 27, 20261 hr 24 min

More Than a Brewery: Inside One of Lancaster’s Most Unique Experiences Featuring Sam Allen - Episode 243

In this episode, we sit down with Bube’s Brewery Dining and Entertainment owner Sam Allen, who shares his four-decade journey of restoring and reinventing one of America’s last remaining lager-era breweries. A Penn State graduate with backgrounds in business and psychology—and a deep passion for theatre—Sam took ownership in 1982 and transformed the historic site into a one-of-a-kind destination blending dining, culture, and immersive entertainment. He reflects on preserving heritage while innovating for modern audiences, and how storytelling, hospitality, and history come together to create unforgettable experiences.???? Connect with Sam Allen: ✅ Website: https://bubesbrewery.com/ ✅ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bubesbrewery ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bubesbrewery ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BubesBrewery/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

April 20, 20261 hr 3 min

Changing Lives One Note at a Time: The Next Chapter of SWAN Featuring Diana Vuolo - Episode 242

In this episode, we’re joined by Diana Vuolo, Founder and Executive Director of SWAN: Scaling Walls a Note at a Time. A professional violinist trained under the legendary Dorothy DeLay, Diana has performed at Carnegie Hall and alongside renowned orchestras such as The Philly Pops and the Saint Louis Symphony. With more than 40 years of teaching experience, she brings a deep passion for music and mentorship to her work. In 2011, she founded SWAN to support children impacted by trauma, using music as a pathway for healing, connection, and growth—integrating mentoring and mental health care to help young people build resilience and find their voice.???? Connect with Diana Vuolo: ✅ Websites: https://swan4kids.org/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-vuolo-64002047/ ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swan4kids_pa/ ✅ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/SWAN4kids/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net

April 13, 20261 hr 0 min

More Than Insurance: Helping Families & Businesses Sleep at Night Featuring Brian Mahon - Episode 241

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Mahon, founder of Igloo Insurance, an independent agency dedicated to providing transparent and practical risk advice for business owners and families. Based in Lititz, Pennsylvania and working out of Middletown, Brian shares his expertise in cyber liability insurance and why it’s becoming essential in today’s digital landscape. Beyond his professional work, Brian offers insight into balancing entrepreneurship with family life as a husband and father of two (soon to be three), while also pursuing his MBA at Penn State Harrisburg. He also discusses his commitment to community service through his roles on the boards of the Manheim Township Public Library Foundation and Referral Partners Plus, highlighting the importance of giving back and building strong local networks.???? Connect with Brian Mahon: ✅ Websites: https://www.iglooins.com/ ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmmahon/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brianmmahon ✅ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/Igloo-Insurance/61576235800018/ Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects! This is the show about small business and small charity success in Lancaster county - we showcase the battle on Main Street, big vs. small David vs Goliath, and bring you the best of what makes Lancaster so great. ???? Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://StreamYard.CastAhead.net ➡️ Get your FREE copy of Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo's book - "Sleep Better" https://gardnersmattressandmore.com/sleep-betterLIVE SHOW PODCAST & REPLAYS: ???? Connect with Lancaster Connects:✅ Official: https://lancasterconnects.com/ ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LancasterConnects ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lancaster-connects✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancasterConnectsLancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead: https://CastAhead.net