Start Local

Hosted by Liam Dempsey, Erik Gudmundson, and Joe Casabona

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Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Start Local is focused on helping businesses and non-profits in and around Chester County, Pennsylvania, connect and grow together. Our aim is to bring together the many folks that make up our wonderful community in greater Philadelphia to share and learn from each other.

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60 recent

June 5, 2026Episode 971 hr 0 min

Protecting the Rights and Interests of Victims of Crime and Personal Injury with Basil Joy

When people suffer serious injury, abuse, or trauma – either through criminal acts or negligence – it can prove challenging to rebuild their lives. We sit down with Basil Joy, an attorney with Goldberg, Goldberg & Maloney, to discuss his work representing victims of crime and personal injury. Basil explains how attorneys help clients pursue justice, accountability, and restitution. Basil reflects on his legal career and how that shapes his work advocating for and protecting the rights of victims. Chatting about a number of nonprofits, we also discuss the value of supporting local communities through board involvement.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSGoldberg, Goldberg & MaloneyWebsiteLinkedInFacebookYouTubeBasil Joy on LinkedInBasil's commencement speech (2013) on YouTubeLocal NonprofitsCrime Victims’ Center of Chester CountyGateway HorseworksFox Chase FarmSafe Harbor of Chester CountyChester County Fund for Women and GirlsChester County Bar AssociationAdditional LinksPink | Marked FoundationUnite for HERFox RothschildUnruh Turner Burke & FreesSuitsupplyConcordville CleanersVillanova University Charles Widger School of LawRelated EpisodesAdvocating for Local Communities: Law and Volunteerism with Rob JeffersonSetting the Example and Leading from the Front with Greg NardiSupporting Victims of Sexual Violence and Other Crimes with Christine ZaccarelliTranscriptThe full episode transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

May 22, 2026Episode 961 hr 0 min

Championing and Fostering the Future of Transportation with Derrick Herrmann

With transportation touching nearly every aspect of daily life, advancing technology is rapidly changing how we get around our local region. We sit down with Derrick Herrmann, Chief of Transformational Technology at PennDOT, to explore how the agency is preparing for a future that includes AI-powered traffic systems, automated vehicles, EV charging infrastructure, drones, and advanced air mobility. Derrick walks us through PennDOT’s role in regulating emerging transportation technologies, supporting first responders, and using real-time data to improve roadway safety and reduce congestion – and so much more.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSPennsylvania Department of TransportationWebsite: pa.gov/agencies/penndotCareers with PennDOT: pa.gov/agencies/employment/penndotPennDOT’s upcoming ~$100million of EV charger funding: pa.gov/evcommunityOpen data platform: data-pennshare.opendata.arcgis.comGIS layers for PennDOT: gis.penndot.pa.gov/onemapPennStart: pennstart.orgAdditional LinksAV RideBeta TechnologiesDrone 814GovernmentJobs.comPennsylvania SPCAState Employees Combined Appeal (SECA)Transportation OrganizationsAASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials)ITS AmericaFederal Aviation Administration (FAA)NASEO (National Association of State Energy Officials)National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)PAVE (Partners for Automated Vehicle Education)Pennsylvania Turnpike CommissionRIDC of WestmorelandTransportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC)Pennsylvania UniversitiesBucknell UniversityCarnegie Mellon UniversitySafety21 at Carnegie Mellon UniversityLarson Transportation Institute at Penn StateHarrisburg UniversityLocal Bands and ArtistsThe Menzingers – Tasker-Morris StationThe Wonder Years – A Raindance in TrafficThe Starting Line – IslandCarly CosgroveTigers JawBalance and ComposureTitle FightBike RoutesAugust Burns RedModern BaseballSweet PillmewithoutYouKid DynamiteGrayscaleValenciaMan OverboardHandgunsRelated EpisodesAdvocating for Sustainable Transportation with Tim PhelpsTranscriptThe full episode transcript will be posted here as soon as it is available.

May 8, 2026Episode 9546 min

Connecting Communities and Building Partnerships with Caitlin Ganley and Jennifer Bilotta

Access to high-speed internet is pivotal to enabling local communities access to the value that the internet can provide in the digital age. We sit down with Caitlin Ganley, Senior Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Comcast, and Jennifer Bilotta, VP, Communications at Comcast, to explore how one of the region’s largest employers approaches connectivity, community partnerships, and customer experience across Chester County and beyond. Caitlin and Jenn walk us through the challenges of expanding broadband infrastructure into underserved areas, Comcast’s efforts to provide low-cost internet access to those in need, and the company’s role in supporting local nonprofits. We also discuss AI, innovation, and and some exciting offerings from Comcast. OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSComcastWebsite: xfinity.comXfinity Internet EssentialsProject UpJob opportunities with Comcast: jobs.comcast.comCaitlin Ganley and Jennifer BilottaCaitlin Ganley on LinkedInJennifer Bilotta on LinkedInLocal NonprofitsLCH Health & Community ServicesWomen’s Resource Center (WCS)Chester County Food BankUnited Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New JerseyChester County Chamber of Business & IndustryCharles A. Melton Arts & Education CenterOscar Lasko YMCA and Childcare CenterAdditional LinksPennsylvania Broadband Development AuthorityDigital Alliance of Chester CountyOpa TavernaCarlino’sRelated EpisodesAddressing Health Needs of Underserved Communities with Ronan GannonTranscriptThe full episode transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

April 17, 2026Episode 9439 min

Preparing Young People to Flourish in the Workplace with Stephanie Gambone

In classrooms across the country, students are learning to become the leaders of tomorrow. We chat with Stephanie Gambone, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Southeastern Pennsylvania, to better understand how her organization supports local young people as they prepare to enter the workplace as adults. As JASEPA celebrates its 75th anniversary, we explore the programs the JASEPA delivers in Coatesville, Downingtown, and elsewhere across the Delaware Valley.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSJunior Achievement of Southeastern PennsylvaniaWebsite: southeasternpa.ja.orgCareers with JA SEPA: southeasternpa.ja.org/about/career-opportunitiesVolunteer: southeasternpa.ja.org/volunteerLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/junior-achievement-southeastern-paFacebook: facebook.com/JASoutheasternPAInstagram: instagram.com/ja_phillyStephanie Gambone on LinkedInAdditional LinksForum of Executive WomenPhiladelphia 250The Fund for Women and Girls: Empowering Change in Chester CountyPodcastsCrime Junkie PodcastBooksSimply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They Are Too Much by Cynthia ErivoThe Next Level Nonprofit: Build a Dream Team + Increase Lasting Impact by Chris LambertRelated EpisodesSpearheading Advocacy, Programs, and Grants for Women and Girls with Cheryl BrubakerTRANSCRIPTThe full episode transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

April 3, 2026Episode 9348 min

Playing, Teaching, and Building a Career in Music with Dave Mattock

Music carries an intangible, immeasurable value – shaping how we connect, express ourselves, and experience the world around us. In this episode, we sit down with Dave Mattock, owner of Mattock School of Music and a working jazz pianist, to explore what it really means to build a life in music. Dave shares his journey from college professor to opening his own school of music, reflecting on the challenges he faced learning to run and grow a business. We talk about the many paths available to aspiring musicians, the importance of mentorship and community, and how a vibrant local arts scene strengthens the region for everyone.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSDave MattockWebsite: davemattock.com/musicYouTube: youtube.com/@davemattockjazzInstagram: instagram.com/davemattockmusic/Facebook: facebook.com/share/17j9Jhduwu/?mibextid=wwXIfrBandcamp: Music | Dave MattockKnucklebox on BandcampKnucklebox on SpotifyMattock School of MusicWebsite: mattockschoolofmusic.comFacebook: facebook.com/MattockSchoolofMusicAdditional LinksKennett Jazz & Funk FestIf Not for MusicPhiladelphia Trusted AdvisorsCanine Partners for LifeLocal Music VenuesKennett FlashAndréa’s Jazz CaféSlow HandWill’s + Bill’s BreweryThe NomadSpence CaféThe Creamery of Kennett SquareKennett LibraryArtists to ExploreBrad MehldauJason LindnerMike LeDonneJohn MedeskiLionel LouekeEsperanza SpauldingKokayiMiho HazamaHiatus KaiyoteAlarm Will SoundRelated EpisodesTraining Service and Companion Dogs with Kirstin DownieTRANSCRIPTThe full episode transcript will be publish on our website as soon as it is available.

March 20, 2026Episode 9241 min

Unlocking Profit and Joy Through Peer Groups with Hendrik-Jan Francke

Business owners and leaders face many challenges, questions, and hurdles. Leaders at smaller businesses and organizations often address these issues alone. In this episode, we speak at length with Hendrik-Jan Francke, owner of Bright Orange Thread, to explore how peer groups can aid business owners and leaders to unlock both profit and joy in their work. Hendrik-Jan shares how these structured learning environments give leaders the space to step away from daily operations, think more strategically, and learn from the experience of others. We also discuss how the right group dynamic – shaped by thoughtful facilitation, diverse perspectives, and mutual trust – can lead to better decision-making, stronger leadership, and more fulfilling growth for both the leader and the business.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSBright Orange ThreadWebsite: brightorangethread.comCareers: brightorangethread.com/careersRemote job shadow: brightorangethread.com/remote-job-shadow-programLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bright-orange-threadFacebook: facebook.com/brightorangethreadPeer GroupsASCENDSCCCC RoundtableAdditional LinksTaste Local EatsNew London Counseling CenterRelated EpisodesEmpowering High Performing People and Teams with Bob CoxChanging Careers and Building a Local Business with Jason FellerTRANSCRIPTThe full episode transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

March 6, 2026Episode 9152 min

Growing and Evolving a 50-Year Family Feed and Farm Store with Jim Cracas

Whether it’s feeding a family pet or planting a backyard garden, many people in our community turn to local stores that help them care for the things that matter at home – and on the farm. We sit down with Jim Cracas, owner of Pickering Valley Feed and Farm Store in Exton, Pennsylvania, to talk about running a family business that has served Chester County for over 50 years. Jim shares how the store has grown from its roots serving local farmers to helping today’s pet owners, gardeners, and farmer owners. We also discuss the role his store plays in the community, from hosting pet adoption events to building long-standing relationships with customers and employees. Jim’s story offers a glimpse into what it takes to keep a local business strong over time.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSPickering Valley Feed & Farm StoreWebsite: pickeringvalleyfeed.comFacebook: facebook.com/pickeringvalleyfeedInstagram: instagram.com/pickeringvalleyfeedAdditional LinksAll 4 Paws RescueAngel’s RetreatMain Line Animal RescueBrandywine Valley SPCATranscriptThe full episode transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

February 20, 2026Episode 9048 min

Baking for Growth with Sarah Holland

When the pandemic lock-downs were in full swing, so many dove into sourdough as a way to explore something new. We catch up with Sarah Holland, owner of Good Girls Bakery. Sarah dives deep into how she experimented with sourdough as the launchpad for her own bakery. She walks us through starting her own business and how she has expanded her products and grown her business. She talks about crafting a welcoming environment for customers and an equitable workplace for her employees. From her bakery in Eagleview Town Center in Exton, Pennsylvania, Sarah offer insights into her focus on business opportunities and growth.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSGood Girls BakeryWebsite: goodgirlsbakery.comInstagram: instagram.com/goodgirlsbakeryy/Facebook: facebook.com/goodgirlsbakeryyAdditional LinksGrowing Roots Farmers MarketsMalvern Farmers MarketDowningtown Farmers MarketStove & CoChester County Food BankLindenhof FarmThe Artisan ExchangeIrieVedaThe Restaurant School at Walnut CollegeHangry Bear CreameryRelated EpisodeFighting Food Insecurity Locally with Andrea YoundtCrafting Ice Cream, Culinary Creations, and Community with Melinda ShawTRANSCRIPTThe full transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

February 6, 2026Episode 8943 min

Setting the Example and Leading from the Front with Greg Nardi

At a time when the country’s laws and legal systems are much debated, access to justice and a fair, effective legal system are as critical as ever. In this episode, we sit down with Greg Nardi, Executive Director of the Chester County Bar Association, to explore how the organization serves both its attorney members and the wider public. Greg walks us through the Bar Association’s dual role as a professional membership organization and a community resource, including pro bono legal services, civics education, and grant-making through the Chester County Bar Foundation. We discuss how fostering connection among attorneys leads to a more effective and humane legal system, how legal education supports access and equity, and why long-standing institutions like the Bar Association continue to matter in Chester County today.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSChester County Bar AssociationWebsite: chescobar.orgFacebook: facebook.com/chestercountybarassociationLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/chester-county-bar-associationInstagram: instagram.com/chestercountybarAdditional LinksPennsylvania Bar AssociationLegal Aid of Southeastern PennsylvaniaSenior Law CenterCrime Victims’ Center of Chester CountyDomestic Violence Center of Chester CountyFriends Association for Care and Protection of ChildrenWestside Community CenterGateway HorseWorksHome of the SparrowHousing Partnership of Chester CountyWills for HeroesChester County History CenterFounding ForwardFourBlockRelated EpisodesRecording and Teaching Local, National, and Global History with Conor HeppConnecting People that Can Help with People that Need Help with Chris SaelloTRANSCRIPTThe full transcript for this episode will be posted to our website as soon as it is available.

January 23, 2026Episode 8844 min

Organizing Volunteers to Make a Difference in the Community with Michele Moll

With so many nonprofit organizations working diligently to address the multiplicity of needs facing our community, there is a steady need for local volunteers to lend their support to their neighbors. We catch up with Michele Moll, Executive Director of RSVP Volunteers. Michele details the litany programs and services that RSVP Volunteer deliver across Chester County and beyond. We talk about how Michele, her colleagues, and their army of volunteers work to tackle local challenges in education, community support, and senior wellness.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSRSVP VolunteersWebsite: rsvpmc.orgVolunteer Enrollment Form: rsvpmc.org/volunteer-enrollment-formDonation: rsvpmc.org/donateUpcoming golf classic: rsvpmc.org/golf-classicFacebook: facebook.com/RSVPvolunteerTwitter: x.com/RSVPVolunteersInstagram: instagram.com/rsvpvolunteerLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/rsvp-volunteerAdditional LinksMichele's story at the West Chester Story SlamEdge of CinemaShoplandia by Jim BreslinLongwood GardensTranscriptThe full transcript will be posted as soon as it is available.