A Place in the Conversation

Navigating Health Literacy and Community Connection

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.

Building a Stronger Community Through Healthcare and Support

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.

Bridging Gaps and Transforming Communities

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.

Cultivating Community Through Pollinator Gardens

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.

Building Community Through Food

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.

Honoring the Past, Looking to the 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.

Dwell Well: The Quest for Affordable Housing

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.

Rhythms of Spirit: Exploring Jazz Vespers with Bryan Tuk

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.

"Crossroads and Choices: Discerning Transitions with Clarity"

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 Strokes: The Power of Sacred Art"

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