Feedback with Toni Reece

FEEDBACK is live at the Women2Women Confernece and Expo today at Alvernia University! W2W is celebrating its 15th Anniversary and this event is growing by leaps and bounds. Over 400 attendees, 50 exhibitors, students, women business owners with so many stories of entrepreneurship, courage and success. Toni talks to organizers, the OG of the origination of the event, sponsors, Alvernia Women's Council Partnership and the very successful duo and Keynote Speakers, the founder of the OCOA, a premium curly hair brand redefining beauty standards! Something for everyone on this segment of FEEDBACK!

The first hour of today's FEEDBACK is all about the word "nice". Toni has an intimate conversation with just the listeners to try to undersatnd that word. Nice is such an underrated term and Toni believes it needs to make a comeback! We dive into the differences of nice vs. loyalty, nice vs. courage and nice vs. necessary. What does "mice" mean to you!? Joining the second hour of FEEDBACK is the Executive Director and CEO of The Reading Public Museum, Geoff Fleming. The conversation explores not just the Museum's future but how this role inspires, challenges, and drives him to continue to champion this institution!

Today on FEEDBACK we are joined in our first hour by Kaylee Simcik, Principle of John Paul II Center for Special Learning. John Paul II has been making a meaningful impact by supporting students with diverse learning needs and helping them thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. Kaylee talks about how she stays inspired by her students, the works that they do and the pure joy they bring to each day. In out second hour we meet Dr. Elizabeth Bentz, Founder of O'Therapy Yoga, a space dedicated to healing, restoration, and the belief that wellness isn't just physical, it's emotional, mental, and deeply personal. Dr. Bentz walks about her journey and work to becoming a spiritual occupational therapist and the power of healing.

The Power of a Smile - More than Just Teeth! Dr. Eric Angstadt joins FEEDBACK in our first segment to talk about the power of a smile. He talks about the physical benefits of smiling, how it impacts our mental health and emotional relationships. Listen to Dr. Angstadt's show Tooth Talk - the show your teeth listen to, to learn all about the power of your smile. In our second hour, Comissioner Christian Leinbach joins us to talk about the ICE Warehouse in Upper Bern, the major changes in the rail industry effecting Berks County and the Housing Crisis. Comissioner Leinbach also spoke about the kickoff event celebrating the 275 years of Berks County history! Connection, experience, and stories that hold it all together. This is FEEDBACK!

Our first segment on FEEDBACK WEEU is all about your investments and what to do and think when the market is up! We are joined by Bill Van Sant, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Girard, a Univest Wealth Division and Lisa Ashcroft, Vice President and Wealth Trust Advisor of Girard, a Univest Wealth Division. Bill and Lisa breakdown what it means for your financial situation when the market is up, what you really own, what to do when you are sitting on cash and what to plan for as far as your investments, as you approach retirement from youth to end of life! I our second hour of FEEDBACK WEEU we are joined by the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA) and today they are discussing the problem of gambling addiction. Yvonne Strohman, Community Programs Specialist, and Mike Reese, Certified Recovery Specialist, both of COCA, talk about the education needed around gambling addiction, how it impacts our youths brain development, the signs to look for and where to get help. Also joining us in this discussion is Sherry, who is in long term recovery from problem gambling. Sherry, bravely, shares her story and the impact her addiction had on not only her family but the personal impact as well. Great conversation in this episode of FEEDBACK WEEU.

FEEDBACK WEEU continues spotlighting community organizaions. First up, Katherine Acosta and Elaine Lopez join us from Barrio Alegria. Barrio Alegria is dedicated to uplifting neighborhods through arts, culture, and community driven projects that create opportunity and inspire pride. From youth engagement to cultural celebrations, their work is rooted in connection, heritage, and hope for the future. Our second show spotlights a true gem in our community, The Miller Center for the Arts. We speak with Anthony DeMarco, V.P. of Advancement at RACC (Reading Area Community College) and Executive Director of the Miller Center and The Foundation of RACC and Megan Schappell, General Manager of the Miller Center as well as Director of Special Events for RACC. The Miller Center for the Arts has truly become what they call "The Stage for World Class Talent", from nationally recognized performers to unforgettable theatrical productions, this venue continues to elevate the arts experience in Berks County.

Joining us in the first segment of FEEDBACK is our very own Eric Weiss, Creative Director of WEEU 830 AM. Eric not only helps shape what you hear on the radio every day, but he’s also deeply involved in local theater, bringing stories to life both on the air and on the stage. Our second segment showcases Amy Stephen. Amy proves you don’t have to choose just one passion and that you can live boldly in more than one lane. Amy is a talented artist and a fierce roller derby competitor. Yes. You heard that right she is a very well-known artist, muralist, and a roller derby competitor. Only on FEEDBACK!

Today on FEEDBACK WEEU we have two special guests making a big difference. First up, Amy Ames, founder of Grace and Grit Beyond Beauty, a boutique dedicated to helping women and teens experiencing hair loss feel like themselves again. Our second guess is Tremayne Jones. Tremayne is a dedicated mental health leader and community advocate whose work has made a meaningful impact as founder of Betterview Counseling and Trauma Recovery.

This episode of FEEDBACK WEEU we are joined in our first hour by Jessica Warchal-King, educator, choreographer, and founder of JCWK Dance Lab, a creative space that explores joy, connection, wellness and understanding ourselves and the world better through movement. Our second hour is all about Medicare. Jessica Walb, Director of Health, Life and Financial Services, with Perfetto Insurance. Jessica breaks down the maze of Medicare, Medicare Supplements, enrollment information and so much more. If you are approaching 65 or have a loved one who is 65 or currently in a Medicare plan that is not working for them - this is the show for you.

In this first episode of FEEDBACK, we are celebrating the power of music. Joining us is acclaimed soprano Toni Marie Palmertree, an artist whose voice and presence captivates audiences across stages and concert halls. Toni Marie shares her journey with us on FEEDBACK, a journey filled with discipline, dedication, and heart! Our second hour is all about love, loss, and the beautiful ways we keep people connected to our lives even after they are gone. Joining us is Dasha Lezark, author of the children’s book Dakota’s Walk. It’s a sweet story told through the eyes of a lovable Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

In our first hour we learn about Lizette Epps. Lizette’s story is about resilience, identity, leadership, and the courage that it takes to use your voice, even when the journey is not easy. Lizette is the Executive Director of Community and Economic Development at Alvernia University and best-selling and award-winning author of Our Voices; Little Stories Through a Latina Lens. Lizette’s passion is to help you be “seen”. Our second hour is for all of you who have an idea for a product, a business or want to mentor others based on your years of experience in business. Our guests are Michelle Hnath and Jim Hong, Entrepreneurs and more for Berks LaunchBox. Berks LaunchBox is a hub for entrepreneurship, innovation and hands-on learning, offering resources, mentorship and guidance to help people turn ideas into reality.

First up on this edition of FEEDBACK WEEU is Rockstar Roller Derby! Melissa, aka Merdermaid, Tamrin aka Loki and Crystal aka Sassy joins us to talk about the women’s flat track exhibition roller derby league that brings high impact athletics, and community to the rink. They are not just skating, they are empowering, entertaining, and giving back to their community. Our second hour is all about wellness! We are talking to Lisa Kahres, owner of Bee Fit and Healthy - a wellness center dedicated to helping people move better, feel stronger and live healthier every single day! Lisa shares so much information that you as a listener can do today!

Alexa Freeman, Creator of Berks Nostalgia, joins us in our first hour of FEEDBACK WEEU. For nearly a decade, Alexa has been documenting the rich and often overlooked history of Berks County - using writing, photography, videography and even drone footage to bring the past to life for a new generation. In our second hour we speak to renowned musician and composer, Jill Haley. Jill is a remarkable oboist, English horn player, pianist, and composer. Jill has spent time as an Artist in Residence in ten National Parks, creating original compositions inspired by the natural beauty she experiences while living in these parks. Jill also gifts us with samples of two of her compositions that were inspired by those residencies.

First up on this episode of FEEDBACK WEEU are guests Christine Nepple, Clinical Director and Yomari Salvatore-Rivera, Program Supervisor of Tower Health, Street Medicine. Street Medicine is dedicated to bringing healthcare directly to people experiencing homelessness or extreme vulnerability. The program meets patients where they are, whether that’s on the streets, in shelters, or encampments, providing medical care, resources and compassion to those who might otherwise go without. In our second hour on FEEDBACK WEEU we welcome Linda Kelleher, City Clerk, City of Reading. Linda brings a wealth of experience, insight, and dedication to the work she does, and her contributions have made a meaningful impact on people and communities she serves. She is a feisty woman who has in her fingers in many pots!

This episode on FEEDBACK WEEU focuses on belonging and not quitting. Our first hour we talk about something that is subtle but essential - belonging. Most of us know instantly when we don’t belong. We feel it in rooms, in conversations, in the way people look past us, or through us. We share stories that have been brought to our attention painting different scenarios that impact our sense of belonging and offer our opinions on where the accountability lies. The second episode of FEEDBACK we speak to Theron Cook, an award winning muralist, brand strategist, and founder of Don’t Quit Ominiversity and TCA Don’t Quit Foundation. He speaks passionately about the power of communication and storytelling within a community through visual arts. His philosophy is simple, but powerful: Don’t Quit!

Today on FEEDBACK WEEU - In the first hour we spoke to Minerva Ocasio, better known in the community as Minnie! Her mission is to transform trauma into strength, to empower others through movement, creativity, and leadership, and to help people truly stand in their power. The second hour of FEEDBACK our guest was Attorney Scott Hoh of Resolution Law Group. Scott shared important information about Estate Planning and cracked a few bad jokes too!

On this edition of FEEDBACK, out first hour we spoke to Dallan Yoh, Director of Membership for the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance and Scott Gardner, Owner, Retro Fitness. Scott shares his journey of being an intern to owning the business. He is real, passionate, and dedicated to both his members and his community. Our second hour is dedicated to the “helpers”. The quiet ones who just jump into situations to help. We talk about helper burnout, sometimes feeling invisible, yet always willing. . .to help.

Have you ever experienced homelessness or housing insecurity? Have you ever helped someone during a Code Blue night? Alyssa Bushkie, CEO of Opportunity House joins us in our first hour of FEEDBACK. Alyssa helps us understand what Code Blue means when it is in action and how much support is needed to provide a warm, safe night to sleep when the weather is too cold. Our second hour is a conversation with Ebony McNeil, Founder and Executive Director of The Forge, a men’s organization focused on growth, accountability, and healing. Two powerhouse people doing work that matters in this edition of FEEDBACK WEEU.

This episode of FEEDBACK finds us on location at Classic Harley Davidson at the 11th Annual Blankets of Hope Chili Fest, featuring Chef Tim’s award-winning chili! This is a fun episode that spotlights members of the Berks County community who are passionate about doing work that matters. Listen to conversations that are not promoting or asking for anything other than explaining how this community collaborates and supports those in need!

Let’s talk about the “P” words. Period poverty is the topic today in the first hour of FEEDBACK. Period poverty is real. It’s quiet. It’s hidden. For thousands of girls and women in our own communities, it means missing school, missing work, or making impossible choices between food, rent, and basic hygiene. Meet Suzanne Cody, Co-Founder of Help a Girl Out and learn how one tiny organization is collecting over 80,000 products for girls and women in need. In our second hour of FEEDBACK, we are joined by Dr. Valerie Trollinger, Principal Bassoonist for the Reading Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Trollinger shares not only her journey as a Bassoonist but also how she works in performing arts medicine and works with remediating damaged musicians- people who are injured by playing instruments.

On this edition of FEEDBACK, our first hour we talk about the social, community and economic impact of social doers. We share stories about small business owners, tradespeople, shopkeepers, and problem solvers - the folks who do not wait for permission to care - they just do something. In our second hour we have a conversation with Kara J. Seawell, Manager of External Events and Weddings, Reading Public Museum and Brayden Stone, Wedding Coordinator for the Reading Public Museum. We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, including a caller asking if the mummy can be included in a wedding to story book weddings in the Planetarium!

Today on FEEDBACK WEEU we talked about the importance of memory keepers and nostalgia. We shared how memories are made and most of the time the memory isn’t about the specific act, but about what that act means. In our second hour we spoke to the Community Advocate, Radarra McLendon who is known in Reading as the “Neighbor Auntie”. Radarra is (outside of her full-time job) filling a need, helping the youth in Reading, one kid, one neighborhood as a time. People doing work that matters.

In this edition of FEEDBACK WEEU our first hour is spent with Bill Van Sant, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Girard, a Univest Wealth Division and Lisa Ashcroft, Vice President and Wealth Trust Advisor of Girard, a Univest Wealth Division. Bill and Lisa share valuable information and experience about how we can manage our finances, set budgets, update our financial documents and so much more. Our second hour is a conversation about Connectors and Community Advocates asking the question “what do you think our community needs?” We have so many people in our community and beyond who see the needs and connect the needs to resources so people can thrive!

On FEEDBACK today with talked about “overcomers”. Big and small ways that we have overcome and learned from the challenges we faced so we can move forward! Toni Reece and Sam Bremekamp shared personal stories of their embarrassing moments, public falls and much more - we even got Sean Tansky to join the fun. In the second hour we are joined by Marc Goldstein, Founder of Blankets of Hope. Marc shares the history of this organization, its mission, the stories and what keeps him motivated. He also talks all things CHILI! Listen to this episode to find out more!

In the first hour of feedback Toni Reece shares her vision for the new FEEDBACK show and shares stories about “doers” in our community. The second hour of FEEDBACK welcomes Ryan Breisch, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Berks County. Ryan shares many important examples of how literacy changes lives and communities. Important conversations!

Beetlejuice Jr. is in the house! Reading Civic Theater’s production of Beetlejuice, Jr. is spotlight today on FEEDBACK WEEU. Logan Allen (Beetlejuice); Daria Orphanos (Lydia) and Samantha Grinage (Director) join Toni Reece to talk about the show, the experience and why community theater is so important! In this episode of FEEDBACK WEEU we talk to Council on Chemical Abuse’s (COCA) Yvonne Strohman (Community Programs Specialist), Cindy Quinter, Executive Director of National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) Berks, and Vito Granieri, Office and Program Manager, NAMI, Berks. This is an important conversation focusing on the post-holiday blues and self-care. Discussions regarding signs and symptoms, resources and hope are front and center.

In this episode of FEEDBACK WEEU we talk to Commissioner Christian Leinbach, Chairman of the Berks County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Leinbach give us an update on this short term and long-term goals for 2026 including Succession Planning, Fiscal Responsibility, AI Strategy the County Departments, and ICE in Berks County. Commissioner Leinbach also gives us an introduction into all the events being planned for America 250 PA! In this episode of Tooth Talk with Dr. Eric Angstadt of Angstadt Family Dental on FEEDBACK WEEU, we talk about turning your winter blues into a beautiful smile!

On this episode of Feedback with Toni Reece we are special guest Jose Martinez, Emmy Award Winning News Reporter and Author. He is the anchor for 69 News in both English and Spanish that center around voices and local impact. In 2025, he published his debut book, "Your English is Great, But..." celebrating bilingualism, calling out microaggressions, and uplifts the beauty embracing who you are-accent, culture, and all.

On this episode of Feedback with Toni Reece we learn from two of our integral members of WEEU. First we met with Maggie May Krall, Social Media Manager and Sports Videographer. Maggie shares with our listeners what it is like to wear multiple hats at a local radio station, keeping up with social media trends, filming live sporting events, and handling the station's graphic design too! She does it all. Our second guest Sean Tanski who is currently working the board while Toni gets acclimated to the new role as host of Feedback, but beyond that Sean is an active member of our Sports Team here at WEEU. Sean is a jack of all trades here at WEEU. Plus Toni shares interesting oddities about the history of Berks and more! Did you know that whales were brought into Taverns for entertainment here in the 1800's? Just saying!

On this episode of Feedback with Toni Reece, Producer Sam joins Toni for a rapid fire questions round to help listeners get to know the new dream team better. The second hour guest is Heather Adams, Executive Director of BCTV. Heather shares the 50 Year Anniversary Legacy with our listeners as well as how leading BCTV has impacted her personally! Thank you for listening.

Listen to the brand new Feedback with Toni Reece. Two powerful stories showcased: First up the American Cancer Society wih Victoria Piscitelli, Chair and Linda Capellupo, Accountant of Relay for Life Berks. Victoria and Linda talk about two upcoming events but also share their meaningful stories of inspiration behind the important work that they do. In our Second hour Dr. Tara Simmons owner and founder of All Abilities Fitness Center joins us. Her center works with children, teens, and young adults with diverse needs. Tara shares what keeps her motivated, how joy is her North Star as well as gratitude. Tara gives new meaning to "All Abilities"

On Bill's final epsidoe of Feedback he was joined by Dr. Tim blessing, a Political History Professor from Alvernia University.Bill also had special call-ins from guests and listeners wishing him well in retirement.

On Bill's penultimate episode of Feedback he talked about Reading City Council's new Vice President, a new poll showing how Pennsylvanians view Donald Trump and Josh Shapiro, and another federal agent involved with a shooting incident in Minneapolis. To begin the show Bill talked with Toni Reece who will begin hosting Feedback on January 19th.Bill was also joined by Cassie Hovan and Dennis Mulally of Perfetto Insurance for a discussion on Medicare and investing for retirement.

On today's show Bill talked about Reading's Charter Review Commission considering changes to the city's charter, a Pennsylvania state lawmaker planning to introduce legislation that would ban warrantless civil immigration arrsts in state buildings, and a power grid operator that serves Pennsylvania and 12 other states being pushed to the brink of a supply crisis thanks to AI. All hat and more, including call-ins from listeners.

On today's show, Bill talked about Spring Township issuing a public service announcement about the legal use of electric scooters, a 1.4 million-square-foot data center is proposed for Limerick in Montgomery County, and Governor Shapiro's Harrisburg problem. All that and more, including call-ins from listeners.

On today's show their was a very special station announcement in the 10 o'clock hour. That announcement was that Bill will be retiring from Feedback after this coming Friday's (1/16) show. Bill also discussed President Trump's motorcade having to take an alternate route after a suspicious object was found at Palm Beach Airport, Federal prosecutors opening an investigation into FED Chair Jerome Powell, and the Minnesota ICE operation continues.

Today's show Bill talked about Flu cases surging, Republican candidate is proposing universal healthcare for children, young adults, and expectant mothers, and Minneapolis on edge after an ICE officer fatally shoots a woman.

On today's show Bill discussed the Berks County District Attorney announced a number of homicides that occurred in Berks County in 2025, a Republican House Bill seeks to tighten the screws on the US Immigration system in wake of the fraud investigation in Minnesota, and a Hampton Inn outside Minneapolis is canceling reservations of ICE and other law-enforcement agents.

On today's show Bill discussed whether or not PA's general assembly can put aside differences to find a solution to rising energy prices in the state, auto makers hint at a tough year ahead for auto sales, and President Trump issuing threats against other countries following his strikes on Venezuela.In the 11 o'clock hour, Elizabeth Steele, the VP of Policy at the Commonwealth Foundation joined the show to talk about possible Medicaid fraud in Pennsylvania.

On today's show Bill talked about Venezuela's president set to appear in a US courtroom on Narc-Terrorism charges, the UN security council holding an emergency meeting today over President Trump's actions in Venezuela, and a Wisconsin judge resigns after she was convicted in an immigration obstruction case.

On the inaugural 2026 edition of Feedback Bill talked about the Postal Service's comments on mail-in ballots, how well DOGE did in it's promise to save $1 trillion in cuts in one year, and the mainstream media's take on an independent journalists' reporting on daycare fraud in Minnesota. Beginning in the 10 o'clock hour, Dr. Tim Blessing, a political history professor at Alvernia University joined the show for a two-hour discussion about the top stories of 2025.

On the last show of 2025 Bill talked about the impact Pennsylvania's redesigned provisional ballots had on the election, influencers spreading Christianity online with young people listening, and electricity prices soaring across the country.In the 11 o'clock hour Yvonne Stroman of the Council on Chemical Abuse of Berks County joined the show for a discussion on how to prepare for the holidays in a safe way to reduce the potential for addiction.Happy holidays!

On today's show Bill was joined by Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach in the 10 o'clock hour to talk about the county's budget, the Reading regional airport, and the Schuylkill River passenger rail project. In the 11 o'clock hour Bill was joined by Dr. Tim Blessing, a Political History Professor at Alvernia University, for a discussion on today's national and international political issues.

On today's show, Bill talked about Reading City Council considering amending the budget they just passed, Pennsylvania American Water is planning to build a new treatment plant in Exeter, and the Democrat-controlled State House ends the year by passing a controversial bill.In the 11 o'clock hour, Jessica Walb of Perfetto Insurance joined the show to go over the changes to Medicare that are coming in the new year.

Toni Reece hosted for Bill today. She talked with Kristine Treese, Lucine Sihelnik, and Heather Zimmerman.

On today's show Bill discussed how Pennsylvania residents really feel about AI data centers, why nearly 30 employees have left Chester county's elections office since 2021, and a powerful new drug is creating a withdrawal crisis in Philadelphia and other cities across the country.

On today's episode of Feedback, Bill discuss the State General Assembly ending the year with the lowest number of new laws in at least a decade, the House GOP unveils health plan for vote this week, and a Syrian who killed three US Soldiers was a Member of the Syrian Security Forces, as well as he recent shootings over the weekend.

On today's show Bill discussed Governor Shapiro's comments on Data Centers, a new poll about American's feelings on President Trump's handling of the economy, and thousands of confirmed and suspected terrorists being in the country. Beginning in the 10 o'clock hour, Dr. Tim Blessing, a Political History Professor at Alvernia University joined the show.

On today's show, Bill talked about residents living in Hampden Boulevard being concerned with new parking restrictions, the Reading School District is considering renovations and/or replacing the Riverside Elementary school building, and independent voters in Pennsylvania file a lawsuit to end the state's closed primaries.