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:

• Mental Health: Episode 1
• Mental Health: Episode 2
• Reentry
• Warehouses

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:

• Green Pond Packaging – walking through a public park while unpacking warehouse development
• A Tour of The Sayre Mansion – go back in history in Bethlehem
• New Bethany Turkey Drive – on-the-ground look at local support during the holidays
• Festival UnBound – a blend of music, storytelling, and community transformation
• Arts at Lafayette College – exploring creative spaces and student expression
• Dance Dance Revolution in Whitehall – a nostalgic twist on community connection
• A Ride-Along with Oogie’s Ice Cream Truck – scoops, smiles, and small-town charm
• A Walk in the Woods at Camp Fowler – take a stroll!
• Kaleidoscope Collective – an artistic and entrepreneurial take on community
• Kathy Olson’s Jeopardy! Journey – local brainpower with a national twist

🎧 Watch or listen to the full archive:

• Main YouTube Playlist
• YouTube Podcast Playlist
• lvwithlove.com — the hub for episodes, video, and more

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