A Place in the Conversation

Most conflict doesn't start big. It starts on a playground, goes home unresolved on the bus and lands in a principal's inbox the next morning. Perk Musacchio and Monica Reinhardt Gurney saw that pattern repeat itself throughout their careers in education and decided to do something about it. In this episode, Perk and Monica share how they co-authored three books and Perk developed the Peace Walk, a conflict resolution mat that gives children as young as kindergarten a structured, visual way to work through disagreements on their own. What started on a shower curtain became a tool that reduced after-school parent complaints, helped kids feel heard and taught them skills that most adults still haven't learned. Monica brings her background in school counseling and private practice to the conversation, focusing on how adult behavior shapes children's conflicts and why coaching parents and teachers is essential. Perk shares the classroom realities she witnessed over nearly 40 years in special education, including how unmet sensory needs, poor nutrition and sleep deprivation often show up as "challenging behavior." Together they talk about I statements, perspective-taking, the lost art of a real apology and why giving children choices makes them less likely to lash out. They also take an honest look at what happens when conflict resolution systems aren't sustained in schools. The skills disappear. And the kids notice. Their message applies well beyond the classroom. When people feel heard and have tools to work through disagreement, the conflict doesn't have to escalate. That's true at age 5 and at age 55. To learn more about Perk and Monica's books and the Peace Walk conflict resolution mat, reach out through A Place in the Conversation.

When a student can't access a school report card because it's online, or a parent can't apply for food assistance because the form requires a login, digital literacy stops being a convenience and starts being a barrier. Juan Tafolla is working to lower that barrier in the Kennett Square area, one workshop at a time. In this episode, Juan shares his work as Technology Education Coordinator with RSVP Volunteers, where he runs a digital literacy program serving Hispanic community members, seniors and anyone who needs a hand navigating the basics. His classes cover password management, email, Microsoft Word, Google Docs and online safety. They run five to six weeks, meet people where they are and end with something concrete: students who completed the first cohort walked away with their own laptops to keep. Juan talks about why patience is the whole job. He's seen well-meaning family members grab a phone and fix the problem in 30 seconds, which helps only for the moment. His approach is different. He shows people how to do it themselves, step by step, until it sticks. The conversation also touches on Wi-Fi access gaps in Chester County, how affordable connectivity programs through Comcast and Xfinity have helped, and why Juan sees civic engagement as the next layer of digital access. If you know how to get online, you can contact your elected officials, apply for government programs and vote more informed. Juan is also a recent Kennett High School graduate and one of the youngest candidates to run for Kennett Borough Council, bringing the same civic energy to his community that he brings to his classroom. Digital literacy workshops in Spanish are currently running at Mighty Writers in Toughkenamon through late December. English sessions are planned for early 2026. To register or learn more, reach out to Juan directly at [email protected].

For-profit prisons use 3rd grade reading scores to decide where to build their next facility. Jan Michener learned that and couldn't let it go. In this episode, Jan shares how that single fact shaped the work of Arts Holding Hands and Hearts (AHHAH), the organization she founded in 2013 to bring arts, literacy and mindfulness programs to youth incarcerated at the Chester County Youth Center. What started inside a detention center expanded into a county-wide literacy movement, including over 100 pop-up lending libraries throughout Chester County and a local chapter of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, which mails free, age-appropriate books to enrolled children from birth through age five. Jan talks about what it looks like to read with young children in a way that builds wonder and empathy, not just phonics. She describes story times at the Kennett Library where kids act out books, explore emotions and make grilled cheese sandwiches in honor of the story they just heard. And she's honest about what she sees on the other end of the literacy gap, where 85% of incarcerated youth are literacy deficient and 75% of incarcerated adults read below a 4th grade level. Her approach is consistent whether she's working with a toddler or a teenager on probation. She starts by creating a safe space. She asks what happened to you, not what did you do. And she treats every person in the room as someone worth seeing. AHHAH also produces original books featuring writing, poetry and art from incarcerated youth, and a documentary called Invisible No More. Jan leads a free weekly Yochi movement and meditation class at the Kennett Library on Wednesdays from 10 to 11 AM, open to all. To learn more, register a child for the Imagination Library or support a book drive, visit ahhah.org.

In this episode, Martha Serio, case manager at YoungMoms, shares how her work with pregnant and parenting teen girls has reshaped the way she understands community support, resilience, and holistic care. Drawing from her transition into social work and her daily experience walking alongside young immigrant mothers, Martha reflects on how consistent guidance, education, and compassion can open meaningful opportunities for girls navigating early motherhood. From connecting teens to prenatal care and housing resources to supporting GED completion and hosting workshops on financial literacy, CPR, and parenting, Martha explains how YoungMoms addresses the whole person through eight dimensions of wellness. She also explores the importance of trauma-informed care and the deep trust built between case managers and the young women they serve. Throughout the conversation, Martha highlights the essential role of volunteers, mentors, and donors in sustaining this work while acknowledging the ongoing challenges many immigrant families face. Her message is hopeful and practical, inviting listeners to recognize the strength of these young mothers and consider how they, too, can be part of a supportive and compassionate community. Highlights from the episode: • Personalized case management for pregnant and parenting teen girls • GED support, housing assistance, and health care navigation • Workshops covering financial literacy, parenting skills, and emergency preparedness • Trauma-informed care for immigrant young mothers • The vital role of volunteers, mentors, and donors • How to support YoungMoms through donations or volunteering To learn more, volunteer, or make a donation, visit the YoungMoms website or contact Martha directly at [email protected].

In this episode,Peter Doehring, founder of the Kennett Ability Network and Kennett Outdoors, shares how his daughter Margot and his family’s journey reshaped the way he thinks about inclusion, community participation, and access to the outdoors. Drawing from his experience as a parent, educator, and advocate, Peter reflects on how small, thoughtful changes can open meaningful opportunities for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. From adaptive biking and volunteering around town to hiking trails, beach paths, and ski trips, Peter explains how access to outdoor spaces and community programs can foster connection, confidence, and belonging. He also explores how language, awareness, and everyday interactions shape how welcoming a community truly feels, and why inclusion must move beyond physical access to program design and participation. Throughout the conversation, Peter highlights the progress Kennett Square has made as a community while acknowledging the practical challenges that remain. His message is ultimately hopeful, calling listeners to notice who is around them, remove barriers where they can, and recognize that inclusive communities are stronger, richer, and more human for everyone. Highlights from the episode: • Creating meaningful volunteer opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities • Adaptive biking, hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation access • How inclusive language and everyday interactions shape belonging • Progress and remaining challenges in community-based inclusion • Practical ways individuals and organizations can open doors to participation

Health starts long before we enter a doctor’s office. In this episode, Rana Sakr, MD, a physician and public health advocate, explores what it really means for a community to be healthy, beyond medicine. Drawing on her work with the Center for Contemplative Studies and her public health studies at West Chester University, Rana shares how social factors like language access, transportation, education, and community design all influence well-being. She discusses the importance of health literacy, mental health support for youth, and the need to make trusted information easier to find. The conversation also highlights how local spaces like libraries and parks can become hubs for connection, awareness, and healing. Together, the hosts and Rana reflect on how collective effort and open dialogue can move a community toward health equity, belonging, and shared resilience. Highlights from the episode:         • What defines a healthy community beyond medical care         • The role of social determinants like access, environment, and literacy         • Why mental health support for youth is a growing priority         • How health literacy empowers families and reduces stigma         • The challenge of finding trustworthy health information online         • Libraries as neutral, public hubs for community health education         • The importance of collective, cross-sector collaboration for lasting impact

Small acts of service can ripple across a whole town. In this episode, Emily Baroni, a long-time volunteer and troop leader in the Kennett area, shares how Girl Scouts are helping girls build confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging. From inclusive outreach troops that connect Spanish-speaking families to first-time camping adventures and local service projects, Emily shows how the program creates real opportunities for growth. She highlights how girls mentor one another, lead community projects, and form partnerships with local organizations like the Kennett Library and food cupboard. Projects have ranged from creating a makerspace sewing initiative and a board game cart to raising $26,000 for scholarships. Whether they’re camping, learning new skills, or volunteering, these girls are discovering what it means to make a difference close to home. Highlights from the episode:         • Inclusive outreach troops that connect Spanish-speaking families and reduce barriers to participation         • Locally run programs that strengthen the Kennett and Unionville-Chadds Ford communities         • A library sleepover, makerspace sewing project, and board game cart encouraging creative connection         • Outdoor learning challenges that build confidence and curiosity         • Scholarship fundraising and mentorship that sustain long-term engagement         • How to join or volunteer through Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

What if healing division started with something as simple as sitting down together? In this episode, we meet Elizabeth Moro, former congressional candidate, author of The Civil Graces Project, and owner of the Centreville Café & Marketplace, whose lifelong passion for hospitality has evolved into a movement for connection. From her Pennsylvania childhood as one of twelve siblings to her campaign trail conversations across five counties, Elizabeth shares how the table has always been a place for dialogue, dignity, and discovery. She reflects on the power of shared meals to bridge differences, the inspiration behind her “Mondays with Moro” gatherings, and why she believes civility begins with presence. Whether you’re a community leader, a conversation starter, or someone craving genuine connection, this episode invites you to pull up a chair and rediscover what it means to make space, for each other and for grace. Highlights from the episode: • How Elizabeth’s run for Congress inspired The Civil Graces Project • The story behind Centreville Café & Marketplace as a hub for dialogue • Why she believes hospitality can heal division • Lessons from her “Mondays with Moro” community gatherings • The deeper meaning of the table as a place for listening, learning, and belonging

Sometimes, the smallest plot can grow the biggest connections. In this episode, we sit down with Steve Denno, manager of the Kennett Community Garden, to explore how a shared green space has become a hub for diversity, friendship, and giving back. From its humble beginnings inspired by the novel Seedfolks to its current 72-plot layout, the garden brings together neighbors of all ages and backgrounds—each contributing not only plants, but also stories, culture, and care.   Steve shares how the garden donates 1,000 pounds of produce each year to local food cupboards, teaches kids about the growing cycle, and provides a rare place where strangers become collaborators. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just curious about community building, this conversation will inspire you to dig in—literally and figuratively.   Highlights from the episode: The story behind Kennett’s community garden and its expansion How shared gardening fosters cross-cultural friendships The garden’s role in local food donation and education Why a plot of soil can be a powerful antidote to isolation

Mentorship isn’t just about advice. It’s about consistency, care, and meeting people where they are. Loretta Perna, director of the WIN and Hermanitas programs at Kennett High School, has spent decades doing just that. In this conversation, Loretta shares how she went from business school and acting to becoming a mentor, advocate, and lifeline for hundreds of students navigating life after high school.   She reflects on the power of small encouragements, the importance of listening to what students actually need, and how the support of a community helped keep her program alive. From personal pivots to public advocacy, Loretta’s story is a reminder that it only takes one person to change a life and a whole community to keep that change going.   Highlights from the episode: How the WIN and Hermanitas programs support students and families What it means to be a mentor when parents can’t always show up Loretta’s unexpected path from acting to education The role of repetition, presence, and long-term commitment in building trust Why investing in scholarships helps more than just one student

In this heartfelt episode of A Place in the Conversation, co-founders Nancy and Nick Everhart sit down with Cat Stenta, Director of Community Engagement at Kennett Library, to explore what it means to truly belong. From neighborhood Halloween parades and women’s lacrosse leagues to environmental film festivals and quiet support groups, Cat shares how she has spent her life creating space for others—sometimes by accident, often on purpose. Together, they reflect on the evolving needs for connection across life stages, the power of listening, and the importance of safe spaces for both joy and grief. Cat opens up about her Quaker upbringing, the influence of her mother’s activism, and how her own journey through divorce led to a new kind of community care. Highlights from the Episode: How libraries act as modern-day community hubs for both newcomers and lifelong residents The surprising impact of starting a women’s over-35 lacrosse team—and why joy matters Supporting others through life transitions like divorce by simply holding space Cat’s passion for environmental advocacy through Trail Creek and Wild & Scenic Film Festival The invitation to be “the person who welcomes someone in”—and why that role is sacred If you’ve ever felt unsure of where you belong or wondered how to start something meaningful, this episode offers encouragement, laughter, and real-life wisdom on building community one brave invitation at a time.

In this deeply moving episode, A Place in the Conversation welcomes Tyra Reeves and Lynn Brown, founders of Just My Reflection: The Jordan Michael Reeves Foundation. They share their personal journey through loss, grief, and their mission to bring mental health awareness and suicide prevention resources to the community. Highlights from the Episode: • Turning Grief into Action: Tyra shares how the loss of her son, Jordan, led her to start Just My Reflection as a source of support and hope for others struggling with mental health challenges. • Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health: Lynn discusses the importance of normalizing conversations about suicide, depression, and emotional struggles, especially in communities where these topics are often stigmatized. • Creating Safe Spaces for Healing: Learn about the Just My Reflection wellness group, where individuals can come together to process grief, share experiences, and access mental health resources in a judgment-free environment. • Reaching the Youth: The conversation explores the challenges of providing mental health support to young people, the barriers to accessing help, and how the foundation is working to build connections with schools and families. • A Message of Hope: Tyra and Lynn emphasize that "It's okay to not be okay" and that no one should have to suffer in silence. They share resources, personal insights, and ways to seek support. Join us for this heartfelt discussion about the power of community, the importance of mental health awareness, and honoring Jordan’s memory by helping others find light in their darkest moments.

In this episode, A Place in the Conversation explores the deep connection between music, faith, and community. Hosts Nancy Nicewonger and Nick Everhart sit down with Nick Goble, a musician and member of the Kennett Square community, to discuss how his journey in music led him to rediscover faith and belonging. Highlights from the Episode: • Music as a Spiritual Journey: Nick shares how his love for music, not religion, first brought him into the church, and how it eventually deepened his faith. • Finding Community Through Worship: Moving from Ohio to Kennett Square, he reflects on how music helped him build meaningful relationships and connect with others. • The Role of Music in Worship: From improvisation to contemporary praise songs, Nick discusses how different styles of music impact spiritual experiences and why certain sounds resonate more deeply with different generations. • Faith, Growth, and the Role of Church: The conversation explores what draws people into faith communities and how churches can create welcoming spaces that meet people where they are. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion about the transformative role of music in personal and collective faith journeys.

In this episode, Nancy Nicewonger and Nick Everhart sit down with Rana Sakr, Director of Health Literacy at the Kennett Library, to explore her journey from medical doctor to community health advocate and how she is empowering individuals to take control of their healthcare decisions through education. Highlights from the Episode: • From Medicine to Health Literacy: Rana shares how her experience as a medical doctor and certified diabetes educator led her to a passion for health education and community outreach. • The Power of Knowledge in Healthcare: She discusses the importance of providing individuals with trusted health information to help them make informed medical decisions. • Building a Welcoming Community: Rana reflects on her journey from Lebanon to the U.S., her experiences living in various places, and how Kennett Square has become home for her family. • Bridging the Gap Between Patients and Doctors: She offers insights on how both medical professionals and patients can foster better communication and understanding in healthcare settings. Join us for this inspiring conversation about the role of health literacy in improving patient outcomes, fostering connection, and making healthcare more accessible for all.

In this episode of A Place in the Conversation, Nancy Nicewonger and Nick Everhart talk with Kate Wickersham of LCH Health and Community Services about the vital role LCH plays in supporting the Kennett Square community. Key Highlights: LCH’s Mission & Growth – Founded in 1973, LCH has expanded from social services to healthcare, behavioral health, and community support. Beyond Healthcare – LCH connects patients to food, housing, and transportation resources. Strong Partnerships – Works with local organizations to build a support network. New Initiatives – Launching an on-site pharmacy and offering chiropractic care for chronic pain. Advocacy & Accessibility – Kate shares her personal journey and the importance of healthcare for all. Listen in to learn how LCH is building a healthier, more connected community.

In this episode, Nancy Nicewonger and Nick Everhart sit down with Pastor Ace Wright-Riggins, interim pastor of First Baptist Church of Kennett Square and mayor of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, to discuss the transformative power of connection, belonging, and community-building. Key highlights from the episode: • How bridging divides—whether racial, cultural, or ideological—creates opportunities for authentic connection and growth within diverse communities. • The importance of shifting from “serving others” to “being community,” fostering shared ownership and mutual respect across differences. • Insights into the intersection of faith and politics, and how affirming the humanity of all individuals can drive transformation. • The role of a Place in the Conversation in supporting existing initiatives and creating bridges between groups, building stronger, more inclusive communities. Discover how meaningful connections can break down barriers and transform communities, one conversation at a time.

In this episode, Nancy Nicewonger and Nick Everhart sit down with Lou Florence, a Kennett Library staff member, to explore how pollinator gardens and environmental initiatives are transforming the local community. Key highlights from the episode: • The Meadowitos Project, a volunteer-driven initiative placing pollinator gardens throughout the borough to support biodiversity and educate the public. • How native plants create resilient habitats, even in small spaces, and their vital role in combatting climate change impacts. • The library's Seed Library and how it encourages community members of all ages to grow their own plants, fostering connection and curiosity. • The broader impact of these initiatives, restoring fragmented ecosystems and building community bonds through shared environmental stewardship. Discover how a simple garden can spark big change in both nature and community.

In this episode, Nancy Nicewonger and Nick Everhart sit down with Edie Burkey and Joan Holliday to discuss the vision behind the Kennett Community Grocer, a groundbreaking community-owned grocery store designed to bring people together and promote healthy living. Highlights from the episode: • The unique mission of the Kennett Community Grocer: A co-op model connecting local farms and food producers to the community. • The importance of inclusivity in the store’s design and offerings, ensuring it feels like home for everyone in Kennett Square. • The role of food as medicine and how the grocer will promote healthier eating habits and reduce reliance on processed foods. • Plans for a community gathering space, dubbed the "Supper Club," fostering conversations and connections over shared meals. Join us for the conversation, where we explore the power of food to unite a community and support a more inclusive, healthier future.

In the first episode of Season 2 of the A Place in the Conversation podcast, Nancy Nicewonger, Lead Facilitator at A Place in the Conversation, and Nick Everhart reflect on the podcast's journey and its future. They honor the legacy of Dan Nicewonger, whose passion for meaningful discussions and storytelling shaped the foundation of this series. What to expect in this episode: Insights into how Dan's vision continues to guide the podcast. Stories of impactful conversations with community members and nonprofits. Plans to bring more voices from the Kennett Square community to light. This heartfelt conversation celebrates the power of connection, the importance of sharing untold stories, and the drive to keep the podcast alive.

In this episode, Dan & Nick make A Place in the Conversation for Luke Zubrod and Burt Rothenberger to discuss Housing Affordability. Luke works for Square Roots Collective and serves on the Kennett Borough Planning Commission. Burt first became interested in Housing Affordability through his work with Westminister Presbyterian Church. Luke and Burt serve on the Southern Chester County Council on Housing Affordability. Join us for a great conversation about ensuring everyone can call SCC home.

Nick and Dan make A Place in the Conversation to speak with Bryan Tuk of Groove Kennett Square. Bryan shares his passion for drumming and the mission of Groove Kennett Square. He also discusses a new project, Jazz Vesper Services. These services help create space for quiet reflection and give people an opportunity to pause and find peace in a very busy world. Join us for a special conversation about finding your passion and turning it into your life's work.

We all face seasons of transition and change. Navigating those well requires us to discern our current realities and healthy next steps. Join Dan, Ronny Russell, and Jim White as they discuss seasons of transition and making wise decisions. Jim shares some of the wrestling that went on as he thought about retirement. He speaks about family, job, calling, and personal desires. Discerning the next steps in a way that honors each area requires wisdom.   Loves Grove Church, Stanfield, NC

Sacred Artist Neilson Carlin joins Nick & Dan. Neilson “is a professional artist with 25 years of experience as a teacher and painter.” He offers classes through the Carlin Academy of Fine Art in Kennett Square. Neilson also specializes in commissioned sacred and devotional art.  After two decades in the commercial and gallery art markets, a conversion to Catholicism prompted Neilson to commit his career to working for the Church. Neilson was commissioned by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to paint an image of the Holy Family for use during the 2015 World Meeting of Families. Neilson Carlin Carlin Academy of Fine Art

On today’s podcast, Dan turns hosting and interview duties over to his good friend Ronny Russell. Ronny takes the opportunity to interview Dan, asking questions about his cancer diagnosis and the seven-year cancer journey. Ronny’s insightful questions and Dan’s openness provide a glimpse of how one person has learned to “live with cancer.” To read more of Dan’s story, The Journey Continues. For deeper lessons learned along the journey, Caring Conversations. _________________________________________ Retirement vs Refirement with Ronny Russell A Place in the Conversation Daniel Nicewonger's Blog Live Again Ministries    

Harold Naylor from Good Neighbors Home Repair joins Nick and Dan. Good Neighbors believes “everyone should have a safe place to live.” They build partnerships within the community to provide critical home repairs for those in need. “From fixing a leaking roof to broken windows or a worn-out furnace, our vision is for all people in our communities to live in a warm, safe, dry and healthy home.”  Good Neighbors Home Repair

What happens when there is a break between what religious leaders say and what they do? Join Dan, Nick, and Tim as they share pieces of their spiritual journey and the struggles that came when teaching differed from action. Letting go of the ego and releasing hurt and pain from the past are all first steps in pursuing a growing spiritual life. Tim, Nick, and Dan share openly and honestly about their journey.

It is possible to have conversations with people who think differently than you and be able to have those conversations gracefully, gently, calmly, and depart friends.  When we do this, we allow people to bring the full expression of who they are into a conversation. We have the opportunity to learn from each other and how we grow together. We can do all this, and part friends. Join Nick & Dan as they are joined by Rev. Annalie Korengel and Father Chris Rogers for a conversation about how they step into relationship with the LGBTQ community.  Rev. Annalie Korengel - Unionville Presbyterian Church Father Chris Rogers - St. Patrick Parish - Courage Apostolate

The Podcast was disrupted due to life events.  Nick and Dan share what has been going on and talk about plans for the future. If you have ideas for a quest or want to be a guest on A Place in the Conversation, you can reach Dan at [email protected].  

Partners Creating Community co-founders Kristen Webber and Brian Dodd join Nick and Dan to share their work.  Partners Creating Community is the bridge linking three innovative, not-for-profit community organizations in an initiative designed to expand opportunities for our neighbors with intellectual differences.  Partners Creating Community’s goal is to offer a holistic approach to serving individuals of all abilities. This approach includes a safe and stimulating farm home, meaningful work that meets real community needs, and educational and vocational programs that provide opportunities for Contributors to become more active and engaged members of their communities.    

AI seems to be a "hot topic" these days. How are we to understand it? What is really taking place, and how much is truly changing right now? If you struggle to fully understand the depths of AI, you are not alone. Into the void of clear understanding are voices speaking about AI as the best thing since sliced bread, or the end of society as we know it. It is important for us to do the work of increasing our understanding of what is truly happening right now. Even more important is the question, "How do we help our children navigate this new reality?" Join Dr. Chris Wells, Luke Zubrod, and Dan Nicewonger as we explore navigating the world of AI.

Nick and Dan sit down with Sara Dickens-Trillo of Mighty Writers. Sara shares the vision of Mighty Writers and how COVID caused a shift in their focus that has helped shape the way Mighty Writers serves the community. A great conversation that highlights the need for us to be aware of changes within the community and have the courage to make changes to serve the needs that exist. To learn more: https://mightywriters.org/chester-county/

The Emergent Abundance Farming Collective cultivates community, teaches gardening, provides food for people in need and so much more. Join Dan and Nick as they create a Place in the Conversation for Julia and Elisheva to share their passion for working as part of the Emergent Abundance Farming Collective.  Learn more: emergentabundance.com Join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/EmergentAbundanceFarming 

What does one do when a day at the beach leads to one of life's biggest disruptions? How are you to respond when you are suddenly living a "new normal?" Join Nick and Dan as Monica shares about the disruption that struck her family. Monica's vulnerability and honesty help us understand the struggle in a very real way. Learning to celebrate small victories sounds easy, but it can be one of the hardest things we train ourselves to do. To help prepare your family for life's disruptions, check out: Caring Conversations: Uncomfortable But Essential Questions To Help You Navigate Life's Biggest Disruptions

Pastor Williams has been a fixture at Second Baptist and within Kennett Square. He has been instrumental in starting Study Buddies, and Bridging the Community. His compassion and caring is evident to all who speak with him.  Reflecting upon 32 years of ministry within Kennett there is much to celebrate, and yet there remains work to be done. Pastor Williams shares wisdom gained by partnering to work for the common good of Kennett Square and Second Baptist. You will be challenged by what he has to share. Second Baptist Church - 132 S Willow St, Kennett Square, PA 19348 - (610) 444-0885 https://www.facebook.com/2ndBaptistKennettSquare  

Intergenerational conversations can be some of the most exciting and enlightening. Join Dan and Briella as they talk about life as someone who just graduated Kindergarten.  The energy and wisdom that Briella brings to the conversation are captivating. Chances are you will learn about a new game, Yeti in my spaghetti.  Briella highlights the importance of having real conversations with those who are different than we are. Get ready to enjoy an energy-filled exchange of ideas.

GUSTAVO CASTAÑEDA joins Dan and Nick to talk about his life and ministry. Gustavo serves as the Outreach Pastor and Willowdale en Español Pastor for Willowdale Chapel. His vision for an inclusive community where people from diverse backgrounds come together and work together for the common good drives much of what he does.  Gustavo's story is one of transition and faith. It will challenge and encourage you. Willowdale Chapel  

On this episode of A Place in the Conversation, Nick and Dan are joined by Carlos E. Vargas.  Carlos shares stories of struggle and success as he launched three unique restaurant venues. You will be inspired by his tenacity and the way Carlos looked at every opportunity as a time to learn and build his skills. The story of selling Kabobs off the back of a scooter captures the heart of what it means to be a visionary and to pursue your passion with every ounce of energy you have.    To help provide chicken for KACS you can reach Carlos at -  [email protected]   To learn more about Kennett Chicken and Kaboburritos  

Join us on “Behind the Badge” as Rev. Annalie Korengel shares about her role as a police chaplain. Rev. Korengel is the pastor of Unionville Presbyterian Church and also serves as chaplain for five police departments within our community. Annalie shares her journey to serving as a police chaplain and how she sees her role in working with many of our local police departments. Join Nick Everhart and Dan Nicewonger as they provide A Place in the Conversation to learn more about the role of a police chaplain.

Join us on "Across the Waters" as we explore the inspiring story of Yesenia Martinez, who made the courageous decision to move from Puerto Rico to the United States. Yesenia traveled from Puerto Rico to Kennett Square to interview for a position at JAM daycare. Once hired, she had to return home, get her children, pack all their belongings, and move to Kennett in time to start her new job. Her story is inspiring and challenging. There are lessons found throughout her experience for all of us, especially those in the position to hire quality people for business or organizational life. Join Nick Everhart and Dan Nicewonger as they provide A Place in the Conversation for Yesenia to share her story.

Bridging the Community has been active in Kennett Square for the past twenty-five years. They work to build partnerships between anyone willing to work on the potential that exists within our community. Bridging Meetings are opportunities for individuals, organizations, churches, and service groups to share their work and learn about the work of others with the wider community. The goal is to "build bridges" and increase collaboration among those who are focused on working for the common good.  Joan Holliday joins us to share the Bridging Story and how you can become involved. To learn more, visit: www.bridgingthecommunity.org You can reach Joan at: [email protected]    

Digital Access is something we may take for granted - until it is not available.  Guests Jim Mercante and Joan Holliday join us to talk about the importance of digital equity.  Helping ensure everyone has access to the internet, the devices needed to navigate it smoothly, and the digital literacy to know what to do. For those of us with consistent access to the digital world, digital equity might be something we have given little thought to. Jim and Joan help us see the bigger picture. To learn more, visit: Chester County Digital Alliance Joan Holliday; [email protected] Jim Mercante; [email protected]  

We each have our unique perspective of the world or of events taking place. Often, we assume those closest to us share our perspective. It does us well to stop and consider that others may have a different perspective. Nick and Dan are joined by Nancy and Rayann Nicewonger to discuss the many different perspectives surrounding Dan's diagnosis of stage IV colon cancer. You will hear how Dan, Nancy, and Rayann each had a unique perspective on their disruption and what it meant to move forward well. To learn more about Caring Conversations [email protected]  

Many of our conversations about worship are focused on personal preferences, what we enjoy, or comparing our congregation to those we long to be. What if there was another way? Dan and Dr. Christopher Wells believe there is. We believe each congregation has a unique set of worship norms that are based upon the communities theology, culture, and practice of worship. Discerning and then living into those worship norms can lead to worship renewal. Chris and Dan talk about their latest book that explains how a church can do just that. A Community at Worship

In this insightful conversation, participants explore the challenges of reconciling faith, spirituality, and scientific thinking in their personal and academic lives. They discuss the importance of community, the historical context of the faith-science divide, and share how open dialogue can foster understanding and inclusivity. Dan joins Dr. Nick Everhart and Dr. Christopher Wells as we explore different ways to navigate the relationship between faith and science.

Rev. Carin Bonifacino joins us to talk about the benefits of green burial. Carin shares how she became interested in green burial and helps us understand how it may fit into plans to celebrate our life or the lives of loved ones. To learn more about the green burial movement: https://greenburialpa.org/ You can reach Carin at - [email protected]

Effective transitional leadership is difficult. Ronny served Mission Baptist Church for 37 years. He had a vision for a smooth transition to the next pastor. Join Dan as he talks with Ronny and Jeremy about how they navigated the transition of leadership at Mission Baptist Church. Effective transitional leadership is possible if we are willing to work for it. https://live-againministries.org/ https://missionchurch.org/

Funeral Director Matt Grieco joins us to share how he ended up serving as a funeral director, the importance of pre-planning, and how funerals help us grieve. "A funeral helps us acknowledge our pain is real, our love unwavering, and that we yearn to heal."  https://www.griecofunerals.com/

Leah Reynolds returns to share her passion for photography. Leah has an eye for pictures and a gift for pairing images with words that make you think. Her Facebook page is filled with examples of her photography and words that will encourage as well as challenge you.

Dan and Ronny Russell talk about the difference between retirement and refirement. Listen as they share about finding value and making the most of life. Ronny is the executive director of Live Again Ministries.

Nick and Dan use one of Father Richard Rohr's meditations to guide their conversation about contemplation. Learning to discern the Spirit's invitation in our lives is essential if we are going to experience "life to the full." https://cac.org/daily-meditations/