Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast Wins “Best Local Podcast” from Lehigh Valley Style Readers

Posted On April 19, 2025 By lvwithlove In Award, Blog /  

The Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast has been named Best Local Podcast by readers of Lehigh Valley Style in the publication’s 2025 “Best of the Lehigh Valley” awards — marking the podcast’s second win, with its first honor coming in 2020.

Launched in 2018, Lehigh Valley with Love has become a leading local podcast by doing what it does best — telling the stories of the Lehigh Valley’s people, places, and pulse. Whether it’s sitting down with community leaders, walking through neighborhoods and festivals, or simply chasing a good story with a camera in hand, the podcast continues to evolve as a trusted voice for the region.

“We try to tell the kinds of stories you don’t always hear elsewhere, or at least not in the same way.” said George Wacker, host and founder. “And over the past year especially, we’ve really leaned into getting out into the community, not just recording episodes, but filming them, walking with our guests, and showing people what the Lehigh Valley looks like right now. There’s so much out there.”

Deeper Dives with Off The Record

In 2024, the podcast introduced Off The Record, a subseries co-hosted by Northampton County Commissioner Jeff Warren. It brings a more serious tone to discussions around mental health, incarceration and reentry, and regional development — without losing the podcast’s grounded, conversational feel.

Episodes in the Off The Record series include:

Watch the full series on YouTube: Off The Record Playlist

Community, Culture & Visual Storytelling

In addition to audio interviews, many episodes now include full video walk-throughs — giving audiences a more immersive look at life across the region. From parks and food trucks to holiday drives and music festivals, recent episodes highlight the breadth and depth of the Lehigh Valley:

🎧 Watch or listen to the full archive:

Powered by the Community

The podcast’s continued growth and recognition wouldn’t be possible without its loyal audience, generous guests, and the support of local sponsors. A sincere thank-you to:

  • Lehigh Valley Health Network
  • WDIY
  • Wind Creek Event Center
  • Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate
  • Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub
  • Banko Beverage Company

Interested in being on the show, or becoming a sponsor?
📧 Email info@lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com
🌐 Visit www.lvwithlove.com

 

Read More

Lehigh Valley Patio Palooza 2 presented by Banko Beverage Co.

Posted On April 14, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog, Contest /  

Hey Lehigh Valley!

Your favorite spring tradition is BACK! We’re once again celebrating the amazing patios and outdoor dining spaces that make our local bars, restaurants, and beer gardens the place to be when the weather warms up.

Welcome to Lehigh Valley Patio Palooza 2 presented by Banko Beverage Co., where you help crown the Best Patio in the Lehigh Valley for 2025!

🗳️ How it works:

  • Vote for your favorite patio below! (or at this link: https://bit.ly/PatioPalooza2)
  • Don’t see your spot? Write it in!
  • Show love to the bars and restaurants that keep your spring and summer vibes going strong by using #PatioPalooza
  • You might even win free swag from Banko Beverage Co. and other great local sponsors!

🎉 What’s next?
We’ll throw a party at the winning patio in early summer—details coming soon! (Check out what we did last year here: https://lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com/blog/patiopalooza)

🗓️ Voting runs from April 14 through May 31, 2025
📩 Questions? Email info@lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com

One vote per email address per day (duplicate entries will be removed)

Read More

Bethlehem Area School District Wins Record 14 State Awards for Communications

Posted On April 8, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

Bethlehem Area School District Wins Record 14 State Awards for Communications

This marks the most awards received by any school district in this year’s contest—as well as the most ever earned by Bethlehem Area School District in a single year.

BETHLEHEM, PA, April 2025 – The Bethlehem Area School District (BASD) is proud to announce it has received 14 awards at the annual Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA) Symposium “Excellence in Education Communications” contest.

PenSPRA’s annual contest highlights exceptional work in school communications across Pennsylvania, recognizing and honoring projects that inform, inspire, and connect school communities.

BASD was recognized in a wide range of categories—spanning social media campaigns, video series, special publications, calendars, and the district’s Vision and Strategy Plan—during the 2024-2025 contest held at Penn State University in State College on March 20-21, 2025. The district earned two Awards of Excellence and multiple Awards of Merit and Honorable Mentions for its creative and effective communication efforts.

Awards of Excellence

Awards of Merit

Honorable Mentions

 

“Our team works hard to keep our families, staff, and community informed and engaged,” said Bethlehem Area School District Superintendent, Dr. Jack P. Silva. “These awards reflect the creativity, professionalism, and teamwork that drive our communications strategy.”

The full list of winners can be found at: https://penspra.com/contest-winners/

_____

 

About the Bethlehem Area School District

The Bethlehem Area School District is the 6th largest school district in Pennsylvania serving nearly 14,000 culturally and economically diverse students in 22 community-based schools. The district serves five municipalities: City of Bethlehem, Bethlehem Township, Hanover Township, Freemansburg, and Fountain Hill.  The district enjoys numerous community partnerships with universities, businesses, and arts providers that extend the schools’ rich curricular and co-curricular offerings.

 

About The Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA)

Chartered in 1969, PenSPRA is an organization of school public relations professionals whose goal is to improve educational communication and support student achievement through systematic, proactive, and responsible public relations programs.

Read More

Sunny Moon Sconery: Artisan Scones & Soft Pretzels at Slatington Farmers Market

Posted On March 7, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog /  

Sunny Moon Sconery: Artisan Scones & Soft Pretzels at Slatington Farmers Market

When we visited The Slatington Farmers Market, we kept hearing one thing over and over again: “You have to try the scones!” So, we made our way to Sunny Moon Sconery—and let’s just say, it did not disappoint. 🍪✨

Meet the Maker: Celia Strouse

At the heart of Sunny Moon Sconery is Celia Strouse, a graphic designer turned artisan baker. When the previous baker, Connie, decided to step away, Celia saw an opportunity to turn her passion for baking into a reality.

Fast forward to today, and she’s crafting handmade sourdough scones with rotating flavors every weekend, alongside gluten-free and vegan options. But the real treat? Every Saturday, she bakes sourdough soft pretzels that sell out in just a few hours! 🥨🔥

A Hidden Gem in Slatington Farmers Market

The Slatington Farmers Market is a vibrant hub full of local vendors, fresh food, and unique finds. Sunny Moon Sconery is a must-visit if you’re there on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Whether you’re a scone lover or a pretzel fanatic, Celia’s creations are worth the trip.

Watch Our Visit to Sunny Moon Sconery! 🎥

Where & When to Find Sunny Moon Sconery

Follow & Support Sunny Moon Sconery

Final Thoughts

We had an amazing time visiting Sunny Moon Sconery at The Slatington Farmers Market. The community, the atmosphere, and of course, the incredible scones and soft pretzels made this a stop worth sharing. If you’re ever in the area, make sure to swing by and grab a scone (or two)! 🎉

Have you tried Sunny Moon Sconery? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

 

 

Read More

Peeps Collab Deep Dive

Posted On February 23, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog, Video /  

At Lehigh Valley with Love, we love a good deep dive—especially when it involves something as iconic (and sugary) as Peeps! These fluffy marshmallow treats, made right here in Bethlehem, PA, have taken their brand way beyond the Easter basket with some of the wildest collaborations we’ve ever seen.

From Hello Kitty to Pepsi, Oreos to nail polish, Peeps has managed to hop into some truly unexpected places. Some of these collabs make perfect sense (Peeps-flavored coffee creamer? Sure!), while others left us absolutely shocked (Cauliflower Peeps?! Thankfully, that one was an April Fool’s joke).

In our latest Peeps Collab Deep Dive, we break down: 🐥 The strangest Peeps products we could find
🎨 Limited-edition Peeps fashion, beauty, and accessories
🏃‍♂️ The official Peeps 5K (because why not?)
🏨 And even a Peeps-themed hotel room right here in the Lehigh Valley

 

 

 

Read More

Lehigh Valley Valentine’s Day Cards

Posted On February 13, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog /  
Happy Valentine’s Day!!
From us to you!! 😍

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Lehigh Valley with Love (@lvwithlove)

Read More

Girl Scout Cookie Ideas with Brownie Troop 8795

Posted On January 24, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release, Video /  1

Brownie Troop 8795 in Bethlehem, PA, is kicking off cookie season with creativity, energy, and a love for all things scouting!

Why They Love Scouting
When we visited Troop 8795, the scouts shared what they love most about being a Brownie. From making new friends to learning exciting skills and going on adventures, these girls are building memories that will last a lifetime.

Crazy Cookie Ideas
We couldn’t resist asking them about their dream cookie flavors, and their ideas were as creative as they were delicious! From pizza-flavored cookies to rainbow-sprinkle explosions, Troop 8795 showed us their fun side with plenty of cookie-inspired imagination.

How to Support Troop 8795
You can make this cookie season unforgettable by supporting these local scouts! Here’s how:

Every cookie purchase helps scouts like those in Troop 8795 continue to grow, learn, and dream big. Whether you’re craving Thin Mints, Tagalongs, or Samoas, you’ll be supporting an amazing cause with each bite!

Order today, and don’t miss out on the sweetest way to support local scouts!

Read More

Lehigh Valley with Love Media at The Greater Lehigh Valley Young Professionals Council’s Leadership Summit

Posted On January 16, 2025 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

We’re excited to announce that George Wacker, founder of Lehigh Valley with Love Media, will be a panelist at the Young Professionals Council’s Leadership Summit on February 21, 2025, at DeSales University!

As part of the “Building Your Personal Brand” breakout session, George will share insights from over a decade of experience in media and storytelling. With more than 15 million video views and 8 million podcast downloads, Lehigh Valley with Love Media has been recognized regionally and nationally for creative and impactful work that connects businesses, nonprofits, and communities with their audiences.

This is an amazing opportunity to learn how to leverage storytelling, build a personal brand, and make an impact. We’re proud to contribute to this event and share some of the strategies and lessons we’ve learned along the way.

Click to learn more about the event and secure your spot: 📅 2025 Leadership Summit Details: https://bit.ly/3O1D1TR

Read More

2024 in Review: Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast Hits 2.7 Million Downloads!

Posted On December 29, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

As 2024 draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to celebrate an incredible year for the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast. This year, we reached an extraordinary milestone: 2.7 million hits across all of our episodes, showcasing the power of community storytelling and local connections.

With 47 episodes in 2025, we’ve shared countless stories that celebrate the heart of the Lehigh Valley and beyond. From exclusive celebrity interviews like Tony Danza, to exploring local landmarks such as The Sayre Mansion and The Dery House, to diving into community-focused initiatives like New Bethany Ministries’ Turkey Drive and Festival Unbound, our podcast covered an incredible breadth of topics this year.

Thanks to your support, we connected with people from all walks of life, sharing the stories that make the Lehigh Valley truly special.

Be sure to visit www.lvwithlove.com for updates throughout 2025!

Highlights from 2024

We’re proud of every episode we released this year, but here are a few that truly stood out:

  • Tony Danza: Standards & Stories – Tony joined us to share insights from his career and his one-man show at SteelStacks, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at his life in entertainment. Listen / Watch here.
  • New Bethany Ministries Turkey Drive – We highlighted the incredible work of New Bethany Ministries in supporting our community during the holiday season. Listen / Watch here.
  • Festival Unbound with Touchstone Theatre – A deep dive into this vibrant annual festival celebrating creativity and community. Listen / Watch here.
  • Lafayette College Arts Tour – Exploring the rich arts culture on campus with exclusive insights. Listen / Watch here.
  • Toured The Sayre Mansion – An exclusive look at this historic gem in Bethlehem. Listen / Watch here.
  • Learned to Swim with Goldfish Swim School – A fun and educational episode about fostering water safety. Listen / Watch here.
  • Toured The Dery House in Catasauqua – Discovering the history and beauty of this iconic property. Listen / Watch here.
  • Celebrated 90 Years at Shankweilers Drive-In – A nostalgic dive into America’s oldest drive-in theater. Listen / Watch here.

These episodes, among many others, exemplify the diversity and richness of stories we’re privileged to share with our listeners. Your engagement—from sharing episodes to leaving comments—helped make this possible.

Monthly Highlights

  • Social Media Reach: 500K+ monthly average.
  • Podcast Listenership: 225K+ monthly hits average.

We use S3Stat to verify our numbers. 

Thank You to Our Partners

Our achievements this year wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing partners:

  • WDIY – Supporting local radio! Link
  • Wind Creek Event Center – Hosting incredible events! Link
  • Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate – Connecting us to our community. Link.
  • Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub – Fueling our team with great food and energy. Link
  • The Coop Sports Bar & Kitchen – Fueling our team with Dinosaur Eggs. Link
  • Banko Beverage Company – Helping us keep the conversation flowing. Link
  • Lehigh Valley Health Network – Keeping us healthy! Link

Thank you for believing in our mission and helping us bring these stories to life.

Looking Ahead to 2025

For more updates, episodes, and ways to connect with us, visit our website: www.lvwithlove.com.

We’re already planning for an even bigger and better year ahead, and we want YOU to be part of it! Whether you have a story to share, a business to spotlight, or an idea for collaboration, we’d love to hear from you. Fill out this form to get involved: https://forms.gle/3AXv59fdXrVirXke9.

Are you interested in being a guest on our podcast? Share your story with us by filling out our guest form here: https://forms.gle/V6czQLymPp1B31GW8.

Join the Conversation

Stay tuned for more incredible stories in 2025, and thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to another amazing year of connecting, sharing, and loving the Lehigh Valley!

Read More

Spotlighting Pale Fang with Tape Swap Radio

Posted On December 23, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog /  

It’s always a thrill to contribute to local creative projects, and we were excited to provide drone footage for Tape Swap Radio’s feature on Pale Fang. The footage captures the unique energy and atmosphere that complements the band’s vibe perfectly.

Tape Swap Radio continues to elevate the Lehigh Valley music scene with projects like this, and being part of their work is an honor. If you’re into discovering new music and creative visuals, don’t miss this one!

🎥 Check out the feature here:
https://www.tapeswapradio.com/news/pale-fang

Read More

On The Jokes by Jo Podcast

Posted On December 23, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

Recently, I had the opportunity to join Jo on the Jokes by Jo Show podcast, where we dove into the humor and heart of the Lehigh Valley. We talked about everything from running a local media company to what makes the Valley such a vibrant place to live and laugh.

The conversation was full of funny moments, genuine insights, and a lot of love for the local community. Being a guest on Jo’s show was an absolute blast, and I’m excited to share this collaboration with you!

🎧 Listen to the full episode here:
https://jokesbyjo.com/jokes-by-jo-show/joking-our-way-through-the-lehigh-valley-with-love

Read More

Lehigh Valley with Love Featured in The Keystone Newsroom as a Top Pennsylvania Instagram Account

Posted On December 12, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

At Lehigh Valley with Love, we’re all about celebrating the best of our community—from quirky events and local businesses to mouthwatering food and those little moments that make the Lehigh Valley so unique. That’s why we’re thrilled to share some exciting news: we’ve been featured in The Keystone Newsroom’s article, “Pennsylvania Instagram Accounts to Help You Ditch the Doomscrolling”!

Here’s what they had to say about us:

“If something cool and/or quirky happens in the Lehigh Valley, or even if it’s just Lehigh Valley adjacent—like comedian Pete Davidson rocking a Lehigh Athletics sweatshirt courtside at a basketball game—you’ll find it on Lehigh Valley With Love. Their coverage of Lehigh University students throwing the goal post in a river after the Mountain Hawks’ recent win over Lafayette was award-worthy. ”

Being recognized as a source of positivity and connection in our community means the world to us. It’s a reflection of the amazing people, places, and stories that make the Lehigh Valley such a vibrant and fun place to live. We’re grateful to all of you—our readers, followers, and supporters—for letting us share these moments with you every day.

Check Out the Full Article

 

Read More

Lehigh Valley Holiday Lights Map 2024

Posted On November 1, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog /  2

Would you like everyone on the internet to know where your Christmas / Holiday light display is? Well, we’re putting together a map for everyone to enjoy and we want your residence or business to be a part of it.

If you’re sure, then please submit your information below to be included in our Lehigh Valley Holiday Lights Map presented by Banko Beverage Co.

Don’t forget to enter the WZZO Holiday Lites Photo Contest Tour when you’re done, for a chance to win some prizes! 

SUBMIT YOUR HOLIDAY LIGHTS DISPLAY AT THIS LINK

MAP IS BELOW OR AT THIS LINK

We’re excited to see some of the most interesting, traditional, and fun holiday displays throughout the Lehigh Valley area (and beyond)

  • The Map will publish as soon as we have 10 submitted houses.
  • Adding to the map is FREE
  • We are looking for a presenting sponsor as well!

By Submitting your light location, you’re agreeing for us to use it on our public Google Map.

We will NEVER share or sell your information.

Thank you to our sponsors:

WDIY 88.1 | The Coop Sportsbar & Kitchen | Michael Bernadyn with RE/MAX | Wind Creek Event Center | Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub | Banko Beverage Co.

Read More

Bethlehem Christmas Tree Toss to Benefit Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley Set for December 14, 2024

Posted On October 31, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog, Press Release /  

The Bethlehem Christmas Tree Toss for Charity Brings the Cheer on December 14, 2024, at 11 a.m.

The Lehigh Valley tradition raises money for Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley

BETHLEHEM, PA (December, 2024) – More Miles Automotive, in collaboration with Lehigh Valley with Love Media, proudly announces the annual “Peter Kearns Memorial Christmas Tree Toss” benefiting Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 11 a.m.

The event will take place at More Miles Automotive, 1458 Stefko Blvd., Bethlehem, PA.

This cherished tradition, rooted in a friendly challenge between the late Peter Kearns and Mike DeCrosta, has become a festive and meaningful event since its start in 2002. What began as a quirky contest has transformed into a well-loved celebration of the season.

After concluding in 2013 upon Kearns’ retirement, the event made a triumphant return in 2015 due to popular demand. Each year, community members gather for a day filled with joy, laughter, and goodwill.

The ‘Peter Kearns Memorial Christmas Tree Toss’ brings together holiday fun with charity, supporting Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley through donations. Participants of all ages are invited to toss Christmas trees for distance, with prizes for top throws and a chance for children to join in with smaller trees. Giveaways and refreshments are available for attendees throughout the event, with special appearances by holiday favorites!

A $5 donation per throw is encouraged, and all contributions are welcomed. Donations can be made at the event or by mailing a check payable to Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley ℅ More Miles Automotive, 1458 Stefko Blvd., Bethlehem, PA.

Join us for a lively day of festive competition and goodwill as we gather to give back to our community.

Donation Link: www.turningpointlv.org/get-involved/donate/

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/F4cnorkz4tmskU6g/

Read More

12-Foot-Tall Skeleton Crawl and Halloween Decoration Tour 2024

Posted On September 3, 2024 By lvwithlove In Blog /  

Do you have a Halloween decoration or a 12-Foot-Tall Skeleton in the greater Lehigh Valley?

Want to add it to our public map?

Send us a photo or video and join in the 12-Foot-Tall Skeleton Crawl presented by Banko Beverage Co., a newish Lehigh Valley tradition!

Get your Bar / Restaurant on the Map and let people know where to stop in as they take the tour.

Thank you to our sponsors: Michael Bernadyn with RE/MAX | Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub | WDIY 88.1FM | Wind Creek Event Center

SUBMIT YOUR DECORATION HERE

VIEW THE MAP AT THIS LINK OR BELOW

** Submitting your address will allow us to place it on the public map for people to use to visit Halloween decorations throughout the Lehigh Valley. **
** Please don’t submit information for someone else; only your personal information. **

Read More