Best WITF Podcasts (2025)

1
York County Astronomical Society Shares the Stars with the Public 22:36

5h ago22:36

22:36

The York County Astronomical Society (YCAS) is helping residents of all ages and backgrounds discover the wonders of the night sky—whether through the lens of a telescope or simply with the naked eye. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Beat the Heat: Summer Gardening Tips from Erica Jo 23:05

19h ago23:05

23:05

As Central Pennsylvania swelters under a July heat dome, many gardeners are left wondering how to care for their plants in extreme heat. Gardening expert and landscape designer Erica Jo joined The Spark to share essential tips for summer plant care, from watering techniques to fertilizing container gardens. One of her biggest takeaways: you still n…

1
The Spark Weekly 07.13.2025: Dam Removals and The Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement 43:06

2d ago43:06

43:06

Coming up on the Spark Weekly: With thousands of dams scattered across its waterways, Pennsylvania has a complicated relationship with its aquatic infrastructure. But a growing number of those dams—especially small, aging, and obsolete ones—are being taken down. And for good reason. Also, on the program The Pennsylvania State Police’s Bureau of Liq…

1
Inside Bethlehem’s National Museum of Industrial History 23:09

3d ago23:09

23:09

The story of American industry is deeply woven into the steel beams, machine tools, and echoes of labor found inside the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. On The Spark, host Asia Tabb spoke with museum curator Andria Zaia and historian Mike Piersa about the museum’s roots, its Smithsonian affiliation, and how it brin…

1
New Discoveries About Early Humans Offer Insight into Our Ancient Origins 23:05

4d ago23:05

23:05

On a recent episode of The Spark, Dr. Chrissy Senecal joined host Asia Tabb to uncover new and evolving discoveries about early humans—from our earliest ancestors in Africa to the impact of DNA inherited from long-extinct relatives like Neanderthals and Denisovans. The conversation explored groundbreaking insights into how humans evolved and what m…

1
Inside the Pennsylvania Science Olympiad 22:26

4d ago22:26

22:26

For students across the Keystone State, the Pennsylvania Science Olympiad offers more than just a test of knowledge—it’s a hands-on, high-energy academic experience that encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity in science, technology, engineering, and math. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/l…

1
Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts Promises Diverse Lineup, Big Economic Impact, and Accessibility for All 22:50

5d ago22:50

22:50

The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is returning this summer with a vibrant and inclusive lineup that organizers say will reflect the region’s artistic spirit while drawing visitors from far and wide. Executive Director Pamela Snyder Etters says this year’s event is bigger, more diverse, and more accessible than ever before. Support WITF:…

1
Harrisburg Fringe Festival Celebrates Bold, Unfiltered Art in Its Third Year 22:05

5d ago22:05

22:05

Now in its third year, the Harrisburg Fringe Festival has quickly become a vibrant celebration of bold, experimental, and uncensored art that’s energizing the capital city’s creative community. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

1
PA Liquor Control Enforcement Officer Shares the Realities Behind the Badge 22:08

6d ago22:08

22:08

The Pennsylvania State Police’s Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement (BLCE) is responsible for far more than checking IDs at bars or inspecting bottles at restaurants. Officer Kristyn Plowden, who works in the bureau’s Training and Recruitment Unit for the Central Section, joined The Spark to share the behind-the-scenes role BLCE officers play in p…

1
Art of the State Exhibition Celebrates 58 Years of Showcasing Pennsylvania’s Creative Talent 22:44

6d ago22:44

22:44

Now in its 58th year, Art of the State continues to serve as a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s rich and vibrant arts community. Hosted by the State Museum of Pennsylvania in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation, this annual juried exhibition features an impressive range of work—painting, photography and digital media, crafts, sculptu…

1
Connecting Kids to the Farm: PA Dairy and Agriculture Leaders Share Why Farm Education Matters 24:00

7d ago24:00

24:00

From the rich scent of homemade vanilla ice cream to the creak of wooden barn doors, farm life runs deep for Brittany Snyder and Charlene Espenshade—two Pennsylvania women working to make agriculture education more accessible for the next generation. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform…

1
Why Pennsylvania Is Removing Its Dams—And How It’s Helping Fish, Rivers, and Communities 23:30

7d ago23:30

23:30

With thousands of dams scattered across its waterways, Pennsylvania has a complicated relationship with its aquatic infrastructure. But a growing number of those dams—especially small, aging, and obsolete ones—are being taken down. And for good reason. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy info…

1
UPMC Nurse Practitioner Aims to Break the Silence Around Menopause and Perimenopause 16:01

8d ago16:01

16:01

As more women seek answers about the physical and emotional changes that come with aging, UPMC Nurse Practitioner Melissa Laidacker is helping lead the conversation through a new podcast series dedicated to menopause and perimenopause. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
The Spark Weekly 7.6.2025: The Peyton Walker Foundation and Braver Angels 42:34

9d ago42:34

42:34

Coming up on this week's edition of The Spark Weekly. David Blankenhorn, a Harvard graduate and cofounder of Braver Angels, has stepped down after nine years as President of the nonprofit organization he helped launch in response to America’s growing political polarization. also, on the program. More than a decade after the loss of 19-year-old Peyt…

1
Braver Angels: Braver Angels Cofounder Reflects on a Movement to Bridge America's Divide 24:43

11d ago24:43

24:43

David Blankenhorn, a Harvard graduate and cofounder of Braver Angels, has stepped down after nine years as President of the nonprofit organization he helped launch in response to America’s growing political polarization. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
The Bald Eagle’s Comeback in Pennsylvania 23:25

12d ago23:25

23:25

As Americans get ready to celebrate Independence Day, the bald eagle—a powerful symbol of freedom and the nation itself—continues to be a soaring success story in Pennsylvania. Once nearly wiped out due to pesticide use, bald eagles have made a remarkable comeback across the Commonwealth. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omn…

1
New Lancaster Museum to Explore Reconstruction Era and the Fight for Democracy 24:08

12d ago24:08

24:08

In the heart of downtown Lancaster, a new museum is preparing to open its doors — one that highlights a powerful, and often overlooked, chapter of American history. The Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy is set to open next spring, led by LancasterHistory, the organization behind the museum's development. Sup…

1
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat 23:12

13d ago23:12

23:12

As temperatures soar and heatwaves become more common in Pennsylvania, health experts are urging people to understand the dangers of extreme heat — and how to protect themselves and others. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

1
Mt. Gretna Chautauqua Preserves a 150-Year Legacy While Offering Fresh Summer Programming in 2025 23:05

13d ago23:05

23:05

Mount Gretna may be a small Pennsylvania town, but it’s home to something historically unique: the only remaining Chautauqua in the state. For more than 130 years, the Mount Gretna Chautauqua has championed the same four foundational pillars—arts and culture, education, religion, and recreation—that began with the movement’s founding in 1874. Suppo…

1
Peyton Walker Foundation Continues Life-Saving Mission with Free Heart Screenings, CPR Training, and AED Distribution 23:18

14d ago23:18

23:18

More than a decade after the loss of 19-year-old Peyton Walker to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the foundation created in her name is saving lives across Pennsylvania and beyond. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

1
Uncharted Lancaster’s Adam Zurn Publishes Debut Children’s Book 22:03

14d ago22:03

22:03

Local educator, historian, and adventurer Adam Zurn has taken his passion for Pennsylvania’s hidden history from blog to bookshelf. In his debut children’s book Canassatego and His Six Arrows, Zurn tells the powerful story of unity shared by the Onondaga chief Canassatego during the 1744 Treaty of Lancaster—a message that helped shape America’s ear…

1
Gamut Theatre Group Brings Classic Stories to Life with a Modern Twist 22:25

15d ago22:25

22:25

In the heart of downtown Harrisburg, Gamut Theatre Group is doing more than just putting on plays — it’s reimagining the way stories are told and connecting them to the community it calls home. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

1
The Spark Weekly 6.29.2025: SWAN and Health Coverage at Risk for Small Businesses 42:19

16d ago42:19

42:19

As Congress considers what could be the most significant Medicaid cuts in U.S. history, experts are sounding the alarm about the far-reaching consequences—especially for small businesses and rural communities. Also, on the program. For children affected by parental incarceration, the trauma can be deep, isolating, and difficult to express. But in L…

1
Small Changes, Big Savings: Expert Shares Tips to Cut Your Energy Bill This Summer 8:32

17d ago8:32

8:32

With summer temperatures climbing and heat waves becoming more frequent, energy bills can quickly get out of hand. But there are simple, affordable ways to stay cool without breaking the bank. Dan McCunney, Senior Communications Manager at NRG Energy, joined The Spark to share expert tips on how to lower energy usage while staying comfortable indoo…

1
Harrisburg Nonprofit Leader Wins NPR’s Sunday Puzzle 19:14

18d ago19:14

19:14

Harrisburg’s own M. Travis Dinicola had his public radio dreams come true when he was selected as the winner of NPR’s Sunday Puzzle segment on Weekend Edition. A long-time listener, public media volunteer, and nonprofit fundraiser, Dinicola represented Central Pennsylvania on the national airwaves with enthusiasm and humility. Support WITF: https:/…

1
Journalist Roundtable: Pennsylvania Budget Deadline Nears as Lawmakers Fight Over Skill Games 21:49

18d ago21:49

21:49

As Pennsylvania's June 30 state budget deadline approaches, lawmakers in Harrisburg remain at odds—especially over the controversial issue of whether to tax so-called "skill games." On this week’s Journalist Roundtable, The Spark explored the state budget standoff with Spotlight PA reporters Katie Meyer and Stephen Caruso, who outlined the widening…

1
Heat Dome Triggers Scorching Start to Summer Across Pennsylvania 20:36

18d ago20:36

20:36

As summer kicks off, much of the East Coast — including Pennsylvania — has already endured a punishing stretch of extreme temperatures, thanks to what meteorologists are calling a "heat dome." According to ABC 27 Meteorologist Dan Tomaso, the phenomenon is a classic — but intense — example of high-pressure systems trapping heat across large regions…

1
Pennsylvania Safety Experts Urge Caution on Roads This Summer 21:56

19d ago21:56

21:56

As vacation season heats up, safety officials are reminding Pennsylvanians to travel smart, buckle up, and never drive impaired — especially with increased traffic expected around the July 4th holiday. In a recent conversation on The Spark, Kelly Whitaker with the Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project (PA TIPP) outlined critical safety tip…

1
Experts Warn Medicaid Cuts Could Devastate Small Businesses and Rural Healthcare 21:58

19d ago21:58

21:58

As Congress considers what could be the most significant Medicaid cuts in U.S. history, experts are sounding the alarm about the far-reaching consequences—especially for small businesses and rural communities. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Parts of Susquehanna River Near Harrisburg Deemed "Not Fit" for Swimming or Fishing Due to High Bacteria Levels 22:21

20d ago22:21

22:21

The Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association (LSRA) has sounded an alarm for outdoor enthusiasts this summer: several locations along the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg are currently unsafe for recreational activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing due to dangerously high levels of E. coli and other bacteria. Support WITF: https://www.wit…

1
How Social Media Use Is Impacting Teen Mental Health, According to Experts 23:35

20d ago23:35

23:35

As conversations around mental health and social media continue to intensify, one expert says there’s growing evidence that screen time—especially among teens—is doing real harm. On The Spark, WITF’s Asia Tabb spoke with Dr. Yann Poncin, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, about what research is revealing and how families can respond. Support WITF…

1
Whitaker Center Marks 25 Years of Science, Art, and Community Impact in Harrisburg 23:11

21d ago23:11

23:11

The Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts is celebrating a major milestone — 25 years of engaging the Central Pennsylvania community with its unique blend of science, art, and education. We spoke with President and CEO Mary Oliveira, who reflected on the center’s legacy and shared how it’s planning for the future. Support WITF: https://www.witf.…

1
Protecting Reporters: Safety, Press Freedom, and Public Trust 23:26

21d ago23:26

23:26

Journalists have long risked their safety to report the news — but in today's political and digital climate, that danger is only growing. Whether on the frontlines of protests or facing online harassment, reporters are increasingly “in the line of fire” in more ways than one. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/l…

1
How Music, Mentorship, and Mental Health Support Are Changing Lives for Lancaster Children at SWAN 24:02

22d ago24:02

24:02

For children affected by parental incarceration, the trauma can be deep, isolating, and difficult to express. But in Lancaster, a unique nonprofit is helping those children find their voice — through music. Scaling Walls a Note at a Time (SWAN) was founded in 2011 by violinist and educator Diana Vuolo to serve children impacted by the incarceration…

1
The Spark Weekly 6.22.2025: Stella Boheme and Erica Jo Shaffer 43:12

23d ago43:12

43:12

When Stella Boheme received the first physical copy of her debut book, Read Like a Queen, she was overcome with emotion. “Oh my gosh… the word that just comes to mind for me is surreal,” she said in an interview on The Spark. “It went from an idea that I had to start writing and every step of the way it just felt like, am I really doing this? And w…

1
Journalist Roundtable: York County Teen Convicted in Shooting Death of 12-Year-Old 25:55

24d ago25:55

25:55

On this week’s edition of Journalist Roundtable, the focus turned to a deeply troubling and emotionally charged case that’s raised pressing questions about youth violence, accountability, and the juvenile justice system in Pennsylvania. A 15-year-old York County teen was recently convicted of third-degree murder in the shooting death of a 12-year-o…

1
Inside the World of All-Star Cheerleading 24:03

25d ago24:03

24:03

What began as a childhood curiosity led to a lifelong career for Season Daugherty, a cheerleader-turned-executive who’s been part of the competitive cheer world for decades. She now works with Varsity Spirit, one of the largest cheerleading organizations in the country. In a recent interview, Daugherty took us behind the scenes of All-Star Cheerlea…

1
Remembering Homer C. Floyd 22:25

26d ago22:25

22:25

Homer C. Floyd, who led the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) for over 40 years, passed away on June 9 at the age of 89. Widely regarded as the “Dean of Civil Rights in Pennsylvania,” Floyd leaves behind a monumental legacy of civil rights advocacy, policy reform, and unwavering dedication to fighting discrimination. Support WITF: http…

1
Rainy Season Challenges Local Gardens: Gardening Tips from Erica Jo 22:53

27d ago22:53

22:53

As Central Pennsylvania faces one of its soggiest seasons on record, gardeners are feeling the effects—and wondering how to keep their plants thriving. On a recent segment of The Spark, WITF’s resident gardening expert Erica Jo returned to share timely tips and tricks for navigating rain-soaked soil, fungal threats, invasive pests, and more. Suppor…

1
Cumberland County Historical Society Receives Gift to Fund Museum Director Position 12:40

27d ago12:40

12:40

The Cumberland County Historical Society (CCHS) is celebrating a transformative gift that will fund a long-vacant museum director position, thanks to the generosity of longtime supporters Pat and Ron Ferris. The newly endowed position ensures that the organization can better care for its vast collection, curate compelling exhibitions, and deepen co…

1
ABC27’s Dan Tomaso on What’s Next for Central PA Weather 11:46

28d ago11:46

11:46

After weeks of persistent rain, cloudy skies, and cooler-than-normal temperatures, it looks like Central Pennsylvania is finally on the cusp of a dramatic weather shift. Meteorologist Dan Tomaso joined The Spark this week to explain what’s been driving the recent soggy stretch and what we can expect as we head into mid-June. Support WITF: https://w…

1
Starman Tarot Returns: Davide DeAngelis on Bowie, Cosmic Messages, and the Remastered Deck 24:44

28d ago24:44

24:44

In a world that’s transformed since 2018, artist and designer Davide DeAngelis felt called—by something beyond himself—to return to Starman Tarot, the vibrantly metaphysical deck he originally created in collaboration with the late David Bowie. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Stella Boheme’s Debut Book Read Like a Queen Blends Tarot and Performance 22:14

28d ago22:14

22:14

When Stella Boheme received the first physical copy of her debut book, Read Like a Queen, she was overcome with emotion. “Oh my gosh… the word that just comes to mind for me is surreal,” she said in an interview on The Spark. “It went from an idea that I had to start writing and every step of the way it just felt like, am I really doing this? And w…

1
New Novel “Great Black Hope” Explores Race, Identity, and the Fragile Promise of the American Dream 22:12

28d ago22:12

22:12

On the latest episode of The Spark, Rob Franklin—writer, educator, and creative force—joined us to discuss his buzzed-about debut novel, Great Black Hope. The book, which was released June 10, is already drawing critical acclaim for its raw and resonant portrayal of identity, addiction, and Black excellence. “It’s super exciting and gratifying, esp…

1
The Spark Weekly 6.15.2025: PA Cares and LGBTQ+ Youth 43:18

30d ago43:18

43:18

In Central Pennsylvania, LGBTQ+ youth are navigating increasingly complex and often dangerous environments at home, in school, and in their communities. Advocates Amber Roadcap, Executive Director of the LGBT Center of Central PA, and Hope Dehnert, a local LGBTQ+ youth advocate and researcher, joined The Spark to speak candidly about the challenges…

1
500 Years of Anabaptism: Reflecting on a Global Faith Movement Rooted in Reformation-Era Dissen 22:42

1M ago22:42

22:42

This year marks the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement, a religious tradition born during the Protestant Reformation that has since spread across the globe. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

1
Journalist Roundtable: Rite Aid’s Collapse 22:29

1M ago22:29

22:29

Once a dominant player in the American pharmacy world, Camp Hill-based Rite Aid is now struggling to survive after filing for bankruptcy for the second time. With hundreds of stores slated for closure, the company’s downfall marks a dramatic turn for one of Pennsylvania’s most recognizable corporate names. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support…

1
Creating Safe Spaces: Advocates Say LGBTQ+ Youth in Central PA Need More Than Tolerance—They Need Active Support 23:13

1M ago23:13

23:13

In Central Pennsylvania, LGBTQ+ youth are navigating increasingly complex and often dangerous environments at home, in school, and in their communities. Advocates Amber Roadcap, Executive Director of the LGBT Center of Central PA, and Hope Dehnert, a local LGBTQ+ youth advocate and researcher, joined The Spark to speak candidly about the challenges…

1
Harrisburg’s Juneteenth Celebration Honors Legacy, Uplifts Local Black Businesses 23:45

1M ago23:45

23:45

The City of Harrisburg is gearing up for one of its biggest Juneteenth celebrations yet — and for organizer Dr. Kimeka Campbell, it’s about more than festivities. It’s about honoring history, building community, and reclaiming economic power. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
Lancaster VegFest Marks 9th Year with a Mission That’s Bigger Than Food 22:33

1M ago22:33

22:33

What started as one woman’s personal mission to advocate for animal welfare has blossomed into one of the most anticipated community events in Lancaster. The 9th annual Lancaster VegFest took place this past weekend, drawing thousands of attendees and over 140 vendors to celebrate plant-based living, sustainability, and inclusivity. Support WITF: h…

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