We are excited to welcome Leanna Spada, Executive Director of the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce in this episode. Leanna has a deep-rooted connection to Charleroi, where she was born and raised, and her work has significantly impacted the Mon Valley region. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California University of Pennsylvania, concentrating in Human Resource Management and a minor in Industrial Psychology, Leanna has built a diverse and accomplished career.

Leanna began her journey working in staffing for Sony Electronics and later operated a retail store for over five years. Following this, she spent 13 years as a licensed Insurance Agent in Pennsylvania. In 2018, she stepped into her current role at the Chamber, where she leads initiatives to foster community growth and collaboration. Her leadership extends beyond the Chamber, serving on the boards of Southwest Training Services and Life's Work of Western PA, and contributing to the Neighborhood Partnership Program Advisory Board, the Global Refugee Advisory Board, and the Athene Club. Leanna is also involved in various collaborations with chamber partners throughout the Mon Valley.

Join us as we dive into Leanna’s journey, her vision for the Mon Valley, and how she balances leadership, community service, and family life. This episode is co-hosted by Kelly Moore, she was a dynamic co-host on FROST Bites, bringing her insightful perspective and engaging style to each episode. Her ability to connect with guests and foster meaningful conversations added to the depth of the discussions.

cfs bank is a proud sponsor of this episode, committed to providing personalized financial solutions to the community. With deep roots in Western Pennsylvania, cfs bank focuses on empowering individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals.

We are grateful to our home, MINC Studios, where we bring these conversations to life. A special thanks to Amy Taylor, owner of MINC Studios, for her unwavering support and for providing the space where FROST Bites thrives.

In this episode of FROST Bites, we’re thrilled to sit down with one of our own, the incredible Al Marschke! Al is not just a valued member of the FROST Bites team working behind the scenes, but he's also a media industry powerhouse. With nearly four decades of experience in video production, photography, and broadcast, Al's journey from Erie, PA to building his own successful business, BluMars Media, is nothing short of inspiring.

We dive into his roots, from delivering newspapers at the age of 12 to his time at Edinboro and Gannon Universities, where he first ignited his passion for media. Al shares fascinating stories about his early jobs—pumping gas, fixing tires, and working as a prep cook—all while honing his craft in photography and video production. His career took off at WJET-TV in Erie, and he later joined WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh, where he thrived as a technical director for evening broadcasts.

Al’s experience in the broadcast world led him to launch BluMars Media in 1996, where he's been producing high-quality corporate and commercial videos, event photography, and directing IMAG productions ever since. In this conversation, he reflects on the power of curiosity, embracing change, and how these principles have driven his career forward.

We adore Al, and it’s easy to see why. Tune in to hear his story, learn from his wisdom, and get a glimpse of the heart and humor that make him such an integral part of our FROST Bites family.

Tanya Chaney, the owner of Chaney's Natural, has been a trailblazer in the massage and wellness industry for nearly 25 years. Starting her career as a nationally certified myofascial trigger point therapist, Tanya has continually expanded her expertise to offer a wide array of therapeutic options to her clients and community. Her dedication to learning and professional growth has seen her study under national and international leaders in the industry. Recently, Tanya traveled to Australia to learn the innovative Spinal Flow technique directly from its founder, Dr. Carli Axford. Spinal Flow is a cutting-edge somatic healing method designed to release blockages and stored physical, chemical, and emotional trauma from the spine. This technique aims to alleviate pain, dysfunction, and complacency, providing a holistic approach to wellness.

Services at Chaney’s Natural: At Chaney’s Natural, Tanya and her team of therapists offer a range of professional and customized massage therapy services. These include general wellness, Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point, myofascial release, pregnancy, and lymphatic massage techniques. Additionally, they provide reflexology and the Spinal Flow technique. Their detoxification services, such as far infrared sauna, ionic foot baths, and ear candling, can be coupled with any massage or performed as standalone treatments. These services aim to support overall health and well-being, helping clients achieve a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Beyond Massage Therapy: Beyond her hands-on work, Tanya is a published health writer and a passionate wellness enthusiast. She enjoys all things nature-oriented and is committed to her personal and professional development. Her dedication to wellness extends into her community involvement, where she serves on several boards, including the Mon Valley YMCA Board of Directors and the Mon Valley Alliance Board of Directors. Tanya also holds the position of President of Aquatorium Innovations, Inc., an organization that produces a fun and relaxing outdoor summer concert series.

Behind the Scenes: We extend a special thank you to Amy Taylor, owner of MINC Studios, where The FROST Bites Podcast calls home. Amy’s support and dedication to our vision have been instrumental in the success of our podcast.