With 33 years as a paramedic in Berks County and on a MedEvac helicopter, Michael's no stranger to high-stakes situations. But it's his love for coffee, sparked by a life-changing cup at a California coffee kiosk, that led him to create Firehouse Coffee, where he's now roasting beans and crafting unique flavors like their brand-new French Toast Coffee.

Michael's journey is fueled by his roots, raised by his great-grandmother and grandmother, who always had coffee brewing, and a commitment to surrounding himself with good people, like his dedicated "9-1-1 Bean Team." He's here to share his insights on coffee roasting (did you know beans crack like popcorn?), his family, and the exciting expansion Firehouse Coffee has in the works.

With a story full of grit, passion, and a drive for success, Michael's ready to spill the beans on what makes his business thrive.

Website: Firehouse Coffee
Facebook: @FirehouseCoffeeCompany
Instagram: @firehousecoffeecompany
X: @FirehouseCoffeeCompany
YouTube: Firehouse Coffee

Website: FXV Digital Design
LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design
Instagram: @fxvdigital
TikTok: @fxvdigital

Produced By: Joseph Mikucki
Music By: Beats by Dai

Kacie hails from the coal region, but made her way to Alvernia College in 2001 as a 3-time PAC championship basketball player and criminal justice major.

With deep roots in the service industry, she has always found her way back to the bar/restaurant scene - eventually meeting and marrying Chris Griffith over a decade ago. Turns out he was a service industry lifer too.

Website: TheBarCartPA.com/
Facebook: @TheBarCartPA
Instagram: @TheBarCart_PA

Website: FXV Digital Design
LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design
Instagram: @fxvdigital
TikTok: @fxvdigital

Produced By: Joseph Mikucki
Music By: Beats by Dai

Having Jack on the show the day after the latest primary was perfect timing. I was feeling down due to the unfavorable results, but he shared his own story of defeat and quickly snapped me out of my funk!

Jack also went on to discuss very important changes and happenings in the City of Reading, and how you can actually seek funding to become a partner in the city's rise. Entrepreneurs and small businesses in our area were always the backbone, but now they have the ability to become dreamers again, and we can all benefit.

LinkedIn: @jack-gombach
Facebook: @JackForPA
X: @Jack4PA

Website: FXV Digital Design
LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design
Instagram: @fxvdigital
TikTok: @fxvdigital

Produced By: Joseph Mikucki
Music By: Beats by Dai