Lancaster Connects

Jeff Giagnocavo, Ben McClure
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

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.

  1. 5d ago

    The Real Cost of Bad Sleep and Why Gardner’s Is Making Better Sleep Easier This Labor Day - Episode 261

    In this episode, Ben and Jeff explore the real cost of bad sleep and why finding the right mattress is about more than simply finding a great price. With Labor Day being one of the biggest mattress-shopping periods of the year, they discuss Gardner’s Mattress & More’s FREE • FREE • FREE event, featuring FREE Sales Tax, No Interest. No Money Down. Financing Through 2030, and a FREE Gift With Purchase. The conversation also covers common mattress-shopping mistakes, signs it may be time for a replacement, and why expert guidance can make finding the right mattress easier. Ben and Jeff also debate whether online mattress shopping has made the process more convenient—or more confusing—and why experiencing a mattress in person still matters. If you’ve been putting off better sleep, this episode is a reminder that what you sleep on every night deserves attention. Don’t just shop the Labor Day Sale. Come experience FREE • FREE • FREE at Gardner’s Mattress & More. ???? 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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    The Real Cost of Bad Sleep and Why Gardner’s Is Making Better Sleep Easier This Labor Day - Episode 261

  2. Aug 24

    The Scoop on Nikki’s Custard: Catching Up with Nicole Dannehl - Episode 260

    In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Dannehl, Owner & CEO of Nikki’s Custard, to explore how her Midwestern roots and lifelong love of frozen custard inspired her to build a woman-owned, family-run business in Lancaster, PA. Nicole shares her journey from raising three children and building careers in educational and healthcare fundraising and construction management to turning her passion for frozen treats, creativity, and community into a business in 2022. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, family, and following a lifelong passion.  ???? Connect with Nicole Dannehl:   ✅ Website: https://www.nikkiscustard.com/  ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikkiscustard/  ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkiscustard/  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    The Scoop on Nikki’s Custard: Catching Up with Nicole Dannehl - Episode 260

  3. Aug 17

    Exploring Lancaster's Hidden Past with Adam Zurn - Episode 259

    In this episode, we sit down with Adam Zurn, founder of Uncharted Lancaster, to explore the fascinating intersection of history, folklore, and adventure. Adam shares how he uncovers forgotten stories, local legends, and hidden places throughout Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, bringing the region's rich past to life through immersive storytelling, treasure hunts, guided explorations, and kayak tours to the ancient Safe Harbor petroglyphs along the Susquehanna River. A technology education teacher with more than two decades of experience, Adam discusses his passion for preserving local history, his work with historical organizations, and the inspiration behind his books, which span Revolutionary War history, ghost stories, hidden landmarks, and children's literature. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or simply curious about the stories hiding in plain sight, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on discovering the remarkable history and mysteries of your own backyard.  ???? Connect with Adam Zurn:   ✅ Website: https://unchartedlancaster.com/   ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unchartedlancaster/  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    Exploring Lancaster's Hidden Past with Adam Zurn - Episode 259

  4. Aug 10

    Chasing the Dream with Cody Tyler - Episode 258

    In this episode, we sit down with singer, songwriter, and musician Cody Tyler to explore the roots of his authentic Appalachian sound and the stories that shape his music. Growing up in the foothills of Appalachia with deep family ties to coal country and the Rust Belt, Cody shares how his heritage influences his songwriting and why his style goes beyond traditional "red dirt country." We also discuss the legendary artists who inspired him—including Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, The Allman Brothers Band, and Sturgill Simpson—and how he and his band have crafted a road-tested, multigenerational sound that resonates with audiences everywhere.   ???? Connect with Cody Tyler:   ✅ Website: https://www.codytylermusic.com/  ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codytylermusic  ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codytylermusic  ✅ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@codytylerofficial  ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/codytyler  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    Chasing the Dream with Cody Tyler - Episode 258

  5. Aug 3

    Furnishing Hope Across Lancaster County featuring Pashk Sokoli - Episode 257

    In this episode, we sit down with Pashk Sokoli, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Furniture Mission, to explore how furnishing a home can transform lives. Pashk shares the organization’s mission of providing free essential furniture to veterans, refugees, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. Through a dignity-centered approach that empowers clients to choose their own furnishings, the Pennsylvania Furniture Mission is creating spaces where people can rebuild, heal, and thrive. Tune in to learn how community partnerships and compassion are helping turn empty houses into welcoming homes. ???? Connect with Pashk Sokoli and The Pennsylvania Furniture Mission:   ✅ Website: https://pennsylvaniafurnituremission.org/  ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pennsylvaniafurnituremission/  ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennsylvaniafurnituremission/  ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennsylvania-furniture-mission-536966276/  ✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PennsylvaniaFurnitureMission/videos  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    Furnishing Hope Across Lancaster County featuring Pashk Sokoli - Episode 257

  6. Jul 27

    Talking Lancaster County Real Estate with Christina Diehl - Episode 256

    In this episode, we’re joined by Christina Diehl, a trusted real estate professional with 16 years of experience helping clients make confident, informed decisions. As a lifelong Lancaster County resident and the 2026 President of the Lancaster County Association of Realtors®, Christina brings a unique blend of local expertise, industry leadership, and investor perspective to every conversation. She shares valuable insights on buying and selling homes, building equity, and using real estate as a long-term wealth-building tool. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply looking to better understand today’s market, this episode offers practical guidance to help you navigate your real estate journey with clarity and confidence.  ???? Connect with Christina Diehl:  ✅ Website: https://lancasterhomegirl.com/  ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LancHomegirl  ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lancaster_homegirl/  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    Talking Lancaster County Real Estate with Christina Diehl - Episode 256

  7. Jul 20

    A Conversation with Public Historian Eric Schubert - Episode 255

    In this episode, we’re joined by Eric Schubert, a Lancaster-based public historian, board member of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County, and forensic genealogist whose work has been featured on Good Morning America, People Magazine, and other national outlets. Eric shares his passion for uncovering overlooked histories and preserving the stories that shape our communities. We also discuss the W. Miller Barbour Lecture Series, which he co-organized with Abigail Sholes to restore the legacy of W. Miller Barbour (1908–1957), an Elizabethtown College alumnus, human rights pioneer, and National Urban League leader whose advocacy for economic justice and housing equality helped pave the way for the civil rights movement. ???? Connect with Eric Schubert:  ✅ Website: https://espublichistory.wordpress.com/  ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ESGenealogy/   ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esgenealogy  ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-schubert-773695159/  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    A Conversation with Public Historian Eric Schubert - Episode 255

  8. Jul 13

    From Dairy Farm to Dream Homes, A Conversation with Tom DeLong - Episode 254

    In this episode, Thomas DeLong shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm in Southern Lancaster to building a successful career in real estate. Before becoming a licensed Realtor with Life Changes Realty Group, Tom explored a wide range of careers, including stunt driving, youth ministry, project management, retail banking, and investments. These diverse experiences shaped his unique perspective and passion for helping others. Tom discusses how his background in banking and investments gives his clients an advantage when navigating the financial side of buying and selling real estate. He also shares the importance of building trust, embracing career changes, and bringing energy and enthusiasm to every client relationship. Whether you're interested in real estate, considering a career pivot, or looking for practical insights on home buying and selling, this conversation offers valuable lessons and inspiration. ???? Connect with Tom DeLong:  ✅ Website: https://www.lifechangesrealtygroup.com/tomdelong  ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomdelong.realtor?igsh=b292c3pzMHcxdXVu  ✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-delong-8bb801112/  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-better LIVE 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/LancasterConnects Lancaster Connects is produced by Chris Stone at Cast Ahead:  https://CastAhead.net

    From Dairy Farm to Dream Homes, A Conversation with Tom DeLong - Episode 254
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5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Giagnocavo, Ben McClure
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    262
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Lancaster Connects
  • Show Website
    Lancaster Connects