How Alexander Labs Is Building AI in the Lehigh Valley

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Guests:

  • Kostas Hatalis Ph.D – Co-Founder, Alexander Labs; Developer of GoCharlie
  • Paul Gosselin – Co-Founder, Alexander Labs

In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker sits down with Paul Gosselin and Kostas Hatalis of Alexander Labs, an AI incubator based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, that’s putting the Lehigh Valley back on the innovation map.

You’ll hear how this growing team is not only building on-premise AI systems and custom large language models, but doing it all from the region that produced the world’s first commercial transistors — long before the rise of Silicon Valley.

From community collaboration and tech talent to data privacy and enterprise-level solutions, Alexander Labs is working to make AI accessible, secure, and proudly local.

To learn more or get in touch, visit: https://alexanderlabs.ai

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https://youtu.be/onsjG6-KPBQ

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🧠 Episode Recap

Alexander Labs and the Future of AI in the Lehigh Valley

“We built the first transistor here.”

Kostas Hatalis opens with a bold statement: the Lehigh Valley isn’t just a place with warehouses — it was the original Silicon Valley. The region manufactured the world’s first commercial transistors in the 1940s, and yet few in tech today give it credit. That legacy is exactly what inspired Alexander Labs, an AI incubator based in Allentown that’s trying to bring innovation back home.

From Empty Space to AI Lab

Paul Gosselin, co-founder of Alexander Labs, walks us through how the project started — with an empty room, a few whiteboards, and a wild idea. Paul had been running software companies when he met Kostas, a Lehigh Ph.D. who had already built his own large language model. They talked, they brainstormed, and soon they realized: “We need to create a lab. One that brings the community in and builds something real.”

That idea became Alexander Labs — an incubator not just for AI startups, but for a smarter, more connected Lehigh Valley tech ecosystem.

Meet GoCharlie: AI Built in Allentown

One of Alexander Labs’ most exciting projects is GoCharlie, a next-generation AI assistant that can write, analyze, and support business operations. But what makes it special isn’t just what it does — it’s where and how it was built.

GoCharlie’s models are developed right in Allentown using an approach Kostas calls “small language models.” Instead of billion-dollar infrastructure, these models run on a single GPU or CPU, making them affordable, fast, and customizable for real businesses.

In a world where companies send sensitive data into massive black-box systems like ChatGPT, GoCharlie offers something better: AI you can understand, control, and host locally.

On-Prem AI and the Power of Local

Alexander Labs is also building its own on-prem data center — allowing businesses to plug in directly and run GoCharlie inside their own walls. Paul calls it GoPrem — and it’s already helping companies avoid relying on Silicon Valley giants for AI tools.

“We’re really focused on enterprise,” he says, “but it’s more than that — we’re helping companies get their data in order, whether structured or unstructured, so they can actually use AI meaningfully.”

Cost, Control, and Trust

Throughout the conversation, privacy and autonomy come up again and again. Alexander Labs isn’t just building AI — they’re building trust. Kostas explains how big tech companies are scraping public data to train their models, while businesses are becoming increasingly wary of handing over proprietary information.

That’s why localized, on-premise AI is such a key differentiator. “You can’t just trust Microsoft or Google with everything,” Paul says. “We can offer the same kind of power — but right here in the Valley, with local partnerships and control.”

Making the Lehigh Valley a New Kind of Tech Hub

Despite the region’s rich tech history, the Lehigh Valley hasn’t been part of the AI conversation — until now. Alexander Labs is trying to change that. With support from Ben Franklin Technology Partners and other local initiatives, they’re helping seed the next wave of innovation.

“We’re trying to build culture here,” Paul says. “It’s not easy. But if we can keep talented students and young founders in the Valley, we can build something real.”

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, the conversation shifts to the future of AI. Kostas explains that the next wave isn’t just smarter chatbots — it’s AI agents: autonomous systems that can do real work across tools like Slack, Zoom, and WordPress. “If it’s a task that can be done remotely, AI is coming for it,” he says.

But for Alexander Labs, the goal isn’t replacing people — it’s empowering them. By creating scalable, local-first AI, they’re making sure small businesses can keep up — and even outpace the giants.

Final Takeaway

This episode isn’t just about AI — it’s about ownership. It’s about building technology that serves local communities, respects data privacy, and creates opportunity where it’s needed most. Alexander Labs is betting that the next big thing in tech doesn’t have to come from California — it can start in Allentown.

And if they’re right, the Lehigh Valley may just become the first Silicon Valley all over again.

E-Bikes, Raves, FEAT, and Sokols: A Few of Our Favorite Things

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Guests:

  • Jackie Bzura – Bicycle Motor Works
  • Megan Lysowski – FEAT (Fostering Equitable Access to Transportation)

In this episode of the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast, host George Wacker talks with Jackie Bzura of Bicycle Motor Works and Megan Lysowski of FEAT—Fostering Equitable Access to Transportation. They discuss how a grassroots effort to provide e-bikes to those in need grew into a nonprofit with community partnerships, real impact, and a 90s-themed fundraiser to help fund their next set of bikes.

FEAT is a Bethlehem-based nonprofit providing electric bikes, safety training, and gear to people in the Lehigh Valley who need reliable, affordable transportation. The idea came together through Bicycle Motor Works and expanded with the support of Chris Briggs of Bethlehem eBike, who played a key role in bringing the initial team together and helping shape the program from the ground up. With leadership from community advocate Megan Lysowski, FEAT has grown into a fully active nonprofit.

EVENT PAGE: www.bicyclemotorworks.com/event-list

FEAT page: www.featpa.com/

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https://youtu.be/CpIFveEnMTY

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Episode Recap

Pedaling for Change: How a Grassroots Effort Became a Community-Driven E-Bike Movement

Partnering with organizations like Café the Lodge and the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, FEAT identifies individuals who would benefit most from access to an e-bike. Using a one-to-one model—one person, one bike—they equip recipients with more than just wheels. Each person receives the tools and training they need to ride safely and confidently, including gear like locks, air pumps, and backpacks.

The organization officially became a nonprofit under the fiscal sponsorship of Humanitarian Social Innovations in early 2024. That milestone has allowed FEAT to grow its fundraising efforts and expand community outreach.

One of their first major fundraisers is happening on April 5: Rave Revival – Pedaling for Change, a 90s-themed dance party at Sokols in South Bethlehem. The event features DJ Brad Scott, glowsticks at the door, and plenty of nostalgia-fueled energy. Tickets are $15 at the door or online at bicyclemotorworks.com under the Events tab.

All proceeds will go directly toward placing another e-bike with someone in need, as identified by FEAT’s outreach partners. With the rising cost of transportation and growing demand for affordable, eco-friendly alternatives, FEAT is helping to bridge the gap—one bike at a time.

To learn more about FEAT or get involved, visit featpa.com.

Susan Wild on Public Service, Politics, and the Future of the Lehigh Valley

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Guests:

  • Susan Wild – Former U.S. Congresswoman, Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District

In this episode of Off the Record with Lehigh Valley With Love, hosts George Wacker and Northampton County Commissioner Jeff Warren sit down with former U.S. Congresswoman Susan Wild to discuss her time in office, the current state of politics, and the future of the Lehigh Valley. From advocating for lower prescription drug prices to ensuring the Lehigh Valley gets the attention it deserves on the national stage, Susan shares insights from her career and what comes next.

Watch Episode

https://youtu.be/DAfVHJVY_PQ?si=uqXa167FCrF-SHAW
 

 

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Episode Recap

Life After Congress & Future Plans

Susan Wild reflects on her six years representing Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District and shares how she’s still deeply involved in advocating for local organizations and causes. While she has not yet made a final decision about running for office again, she emphasizes the importance of supporting Democratic candidates who can challenge Ryan Mackenzie in the next election.

“I think it’s really important that somebody run on the Democratic side who can beat Ryan Mackenzie… If it’s not me, I will be getting behind whoever the strongest Democratic candidate is.”

Advocating for Community Resources

Wild discusses how the Lehigh Valley has historically been overshadowed by Philadelphia and Pittsburgh when it comes to securing federal funding. During her tenure, she made it a priority to ensure that the Lehigh Valley received its fair share of resources.

“We’re the third largest and fastest-growing region in Pennsylvania, and I made it my mission to bring millions of dollars back to the Lehigh Valley.”

She also highlights the critical need for continued support for local organizations, especially as political shifts at the national level could lead to funding challenges for nonprofits, education, and healthcare.

Lowering Prescription Drug Costs

One of Susan’s proudest accomplishments was her work on lowering the cost of prescription drugs, particularly insulin. She explains how she came to realize the severity of the issue through conversations with constituents and how it became a legislative priority.

“I made it my mission to push for reduced drug prices, and we finally made breakthroughs through the Inflation Reduction Act. Insulin costs have come down, and we’re continuing to negotiate lower prices for other life-saving medications.”

The Problem with Modern Politics

The conversation shifts to the broader political landscape, where Wild discusses how modern political figures are more focused on gaining attention than governing. She criticizes the influence of money in politics and how viral moments often dictate fundraising success.

“Some of the craziest things we’ve seen—like people suggesting we put Donald Trump on a $250 bill—are done for attention because they know it will bring in donations.”

She also highlights the challenges of being a moderate politician in today’s political climate, where bipartisan efforts often go unnoticed compared to the more extreme voices on both sides.

The Lehigh Valley’s Future

Looking ahead, Wild expresses optimism about the Lehigh Valley’s growth but warns about the challenges of urban sprawl and warehouse expansion. She stresses the importance of balancing economic development with responsible planning.

“We need to ensure that we don’t turn the Lehigh Valley into just another suburb of Philadelphia. Growth is great, but it has to be done in a way that maintains our region’s character.”

Passing the Torch to the Next Generation

As the discussion wraps up, Wild talks about the need for younger voices in politics and her desire to mentor future leaders.

“If I decide not to run, it will be because I believe in mentoring and passing the baton. We need more young people in politics, and we have to give them the support they need.”

She shares her vision of creating an initiative in the Lehigh Valley to educate and engage young people in public service, whether through running for office or getting involved in advocacy work.

Peeps Collab Deep Dive

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

 

 

 

Reentry in the Lehigh Valley: Breaking Barriers & Building Second Chances

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Guests:

  • Dr. Michael Pittaro – Director of Corrections, Northampton County
  • Jose Rivera – Community Engagement Coordinator, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley
  • Attorney David D. Ritter – Criminal Defense Attorney, Kitay Law Offices

Reentry after incarceration is a process that affects all of us, whether we realize it or not. Did you know that 65% of people released from prison end up reoffending? Or that defendants who can’t afford bail often spend 90 to 180 days behind bars before their case is even resolved? These barriers make successful reintegration nearly impossible, but there are solutions—like expanding mental health and drug courts, addressing pre-trial detention challenges, and improving job opportunities for returning citizens.

In this episode of Lehigh Valley with Love, we dive deep into the realities of reentry with experts and those who have lived through the process. Our guests share their firsthand experiences and insights on what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to change.

Thank you to Dr. Joseph Roy for his invaluable help producing this episode!

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Blog: The Realities of Reentry – A Recap of the Podcast

Understanding Reentry
Reentry is the process by which formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society after serving their time. While release from prison might seem like the end of a sentence, for many, it marks the beginning of another battle—finding employment, securing housing, and avoiding recidivism.

Jose Rivera, Community Engagement Coordinator at United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, explains how reentry was once a non-existent term. Instead, individuals were labeled “ex-cons” or “felons,” limiting their opportunities. While the language has evolved, the systemic barriers remain overwhelming for many returning citizens.

The Challenges of Reentry
Dr. Michael Pittaro, Director of Corrections for Northampton County, highlights the recidivism rate of nearly 65% in the U.S., emphasizing that many individuals return to the same communities where they faced prior struggles. Without intervention, they encounter the same environments, influences, and hardships that led to their incarceration.

Attorney David Ritter sheds light on pre-trial detention and bail reform, explaining that individuals can spend 90 to 180 days in jail before their trial simply because they cannot afford bail. This extended detention causes job loss, housing instability, and financial hardship, making reintegration even more difficult after release.

Another major obstacle is the role of parole and probation officers. Some officers serve as mentors, helping individuals access resources, while others take a more punitive approach, increasing the likelihood of reoffending. Rivera stresses that a supportive parole officer can make all the difference in successful reentry.

Employment and Housing: Critical Factors in Reentry Success
Securing employment after incarceration is a major challenge. Dr. Pittaro explains how background checks and job applications with felony-related questions create barriers, despite Pennsylvania’s “Ban the Box” initiative. While this law prevents employers from immediately disqualifying applicants based on criminal history, employers still have access to background checks and often reject qualified applicants.

Housing is another pressing issue. Many landlords deny applications from formerly incarcerated individuals, making it difficult to secure stable living conditions. Even those who find employment struggle with rising housing costs and parole restrictions that limit where they can live. David Ritter emphasizes that parole conditions often require a stable address, but without accessible housing, securing parole itself becomes an obstacle.

Solutions That Are Making a Difference
Despite the challenges, several initiatives in the Lehigh Valley are making strides toward improving reentry outcomes:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A tool used in reentry programs to help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns.
The Reentry Coalition: A network of organizations collaborating to support individuals reentering society.
Specialty Courts (Drug Court & Mental Health Court): Programs aimed at rehabilitation rather than incarceration, diverting nonviolent offenders toward treatment-based solutions.
One-Stop Reentry Centers: Efforts are underway to establish centralized locations where individuals can access job training, mental health services, housing assistance, and legal aid in one place.
While these programs are promising, expanding housing access, providing employer incentives, and improving parole officer training remain key priorities in reducing recidivism.

Final Thoughts
Reentry is not just about the individual—it’s a community issue. When individuals successfully reintegrate, crime rates decrease, families remain intact, and communities grow stronger. However, employment barriers, housing restrictions, and punitive parole policies must be addressed to create long-term success.

This episode of Lehigh Valley with Love underscores the need for policy changes, stronger community support, and a shift in public perception—from punishment to rehabilitation.

The Lehigh Valley’s Dance Dance Revolution

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Guests: Members of the Whitehall Dance Dance Revolution Community

In this episode of Lehigh Valley with Love, we step into the rhythm of the Lehigh Valley’s Dance Dance Revolution scene. Visiting Dave & Buster’s in Whitehall, PA, we meet the passionate players who gather every Thursday night to combine music, movement, and community. From newcomers to seasoned players with decades of experience, this group proves DDR is more than a game—it’s a lifestyle.

Links

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Episode Recap:

Dance Dance Revolution might seem like a relic of the early 2000s, but for the Whitehall DDR community, it’s anything but. Every Thursday night, this group gathers at Dave & Buster’s to celebrate their love for the game, from Eurobeat music to challenging footwork. In this episode, hosts George Wacker and Jeff Warren explore what keeps this community moving.

Finding Connection through DDR
The episode opens with stories from players like Chris, who has been playing DDR for 20 years, and Emily, who joined the scene to make new friends. For many, DDR is more than a game—it’s a way to connect, improve, and push themselves. “Everyone here is supportive,” Chris shares. “No one’s judging you, no matter your skill level.”

The Comeback That Never Left
DDR may have dipped in popularity over the years, but the community insists it never really went away. Alex reflects on the joy of seeing new players discover the game: “Watching kids’ faces light up the way mine did when I first played is what makes it all worth it.”

Exercise, Music, and Fun
For Angeline, DDR is the perfect mix of cardio, movement, and rhythm. “It’s not just a video game—it’s a workout. It’s good cardio, and the music is amazing,” she explains. From Eurodance to classic tracks like Butterfly, the soundtrack is a big part of the draw.

An Open Invitation
The community at Dave & Buster’s is open and welcoming to everyone. “If you’re on the fence, just try it,” Tony encourages. “When I started, I was horrible, but the most important thing is to have fun and push yourself.”

Looking Ahead
With events like a major tournament planned at the Philadelphia Round1 in June, the DDR scene in Pennsylvania is growing stronger. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the Whitehall group invites you to join the fun every Thursday night.

episode transcript

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

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

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

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

 

Conversations with Amy Jo Burns, Shelley Noble, and Meg Shaffer: A Preview of SOTA’s Author Events

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For more information and tickets, visit sotapa.org/lwta.

Tour The Sayre Mansion in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

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Third Street Alliance’s 27th Annual Bistro on March 25, 2023

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2022 Lehigh Valley Holiday Lights Map

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.

SUBMIT YOUR HOLIDAY LIGHTS DISPLAY AT THIS LINK

Click here for the map or view below!

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

– Personal Residences are FREE

– Businesses are $50 (Payable via PayPal or Venmo)

– 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.

Lehigh Valley with Love Holiday Spectacular LIVE

Listen to the music only here.

Join hosts George Wacker and Phil Reese on December 7, 2021 as they warm their chestnuts by the fire with some super special musical guests live or recorded including:

Puddles Pity Party
Eljuri
Hannah Gill
Pepperwine
Gangstagrass
Ryan Tennis
Corinne Mammana
Jon Worthy
Carver Commodore
and more!

Listen to the Podcast Version here.

Want to give away stuff? (email us at info@lehighvalleywithlovemedia.com)

https://linktr.ee/lvwithlove

Eman Jarrah for Lehigh County Judge | Getting to Work in the Lehigh Valley

In our final political podcast of … well for now, we are honored to have on fellow Moravian College grad, Emmaus resident, and farmland preservation champion, Eman Jarrah.

Oh, yeah, she’s running for Lehigh County Judge! Vote on May 18th.

From her website: “Eman Jarrah is a Lehigh Valley native who was born and raised in Allentown, Pennsylvania.  She is a graduate of Dieruff High School, Moravian College, and The University of Dayton School of Law.  A long-time Deputy County Solicitor, she has spent most of her career advocating for the community’s most vulnerable consumers.  She manages difficult situations with compassion for the individuals involved but with a respect for the application of the law.  A typical day is one where she assists in coming up with a creative solution to a challenging scenario.  She cares about her community and is committed to its positive growth.”

Check out Eman Jarrah’s website.

Our featured local non-profit this week is New Bethany Ministries!

Thank you to our partners:

Burke Insurance Agency 

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

and our Season Featured Partner, Venture X


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– Subscribe to the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast.

– Want to be a guest on the Lehigh Valley with Love Podcast?


Watch the video episode here or below 

Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting Video Featured in LA Times

The 2020 Virtual Bethlehem City Christmas Tree Lighting, a Lehigh Valley with Love Media project, was recently featured in the LA Times.

The article highlighted Bethlehem and surrounding Lehigh Valley areas’ holiday fansticness. We’re beyond proud to have been a part of this project that showcases one of the most beautiful cities in the United States!

Take a look at the video and read the article!

Oh and Facebook video here…