The Attitude Lounge Podcast

What started as a simple suggestion for her son turned into something Awilda never imagined!In this episode of The Attitude Lounge Podcast, we welcome Awilda Sienicki, the creative heart behind Hi Friends of Lehigh Valley, to share how a little curiosity, a Halloween costume, and a whole lot of love sparked an unexpected journey.When someone suggested that Awilda introduce her son to Ms. Rachel on YouTube, she wasn't quite sure what to think. But after seeing how much he loved it, she decided to dress up as Ms. Rachel for Halloween. Her son's reaction was priceless, and the neighborhood loved it just as much! Little did she know, that moment would open the door to something much bigger.Fast-forward to today, and Awilda is taking her passion for connecting with children to a whole new level! She's created her very own character, Miss Amiga, bringing bilingual storytelling, imagination, and the beauty of both English and Spanish to young children.Through her collaboration with ArtsQuest in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Miss Amiga is creating opportunities for little ones and their families to experience the magic of stories, language, and learning together.We talk about the journey from being a mom inspired by her son to becoming a familiar face bringing smiles to children throughout the Lehigh Valley. Also, we explore what's next for Miss Amiga, because sometimes the most unexpected beginnings lead to the most beautiful opportunities!Pull up a chair and join us in The Attitude Lounge for a conversation about motherhood, creativity, community, and following a passion you never saw coming!You may follow Awilda on her social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram @hifriendsoflv 💚 Your Story Matters. B-roll Footage Courtesy of: Awilda Sienicki and The Attitude Lounge PodcastThe Community Behind the Experience:The community behind the experience is made even special through amazing local entreprenuers; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, Bea’s Baked Art, and 1COR619FITNESS! Thank you for being part of the family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated!🎤 Show Some Love! Sending some love to Bad Bunny, ArtsQuest, Jay’s Local, and Panchita’s Kitchen! Keep doing what you love and making things happen!👍 Like, comment, share, and subscribe!#artsquest #bilingualstorytelling #lehighvalley #bethlehempa #communitystories You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

In this episode of The Attitude Lounge, we sit down with Jeff Warren, candidate for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in District 137, for an honest and community-focused conversation about his campaign, his connection to the people he hopes to serve, and his vision for creating better outcomes throughout Northampton County.Jeff talks about what motivated him to run for office and the importance of listening directly to the community. Through knocking on doors and having conversations with residents, he is hearing firsthand about the concerns affecting individuals and families from the rising cost of living and housing affordability/attainability, to education, mental health, and the challenges people face simply trying to build a secure future.As a husband and father of teenage daughters, these issues are personal for Jeff. He shares how conversations with his own daughters have made him think even more deeply about the future, particularly when they ask questions like, “How am I ever going to afford a home when it’s time for me to buy one?” While Jeff may not have an immediate answer to every challenge, he recognizes that these are conversations that need to happen. And they need to happen not only at the local level, but also at the state and federal levels.Mental health is another issue Jeff feels strongly about, particularly the way mental health challenges affect individuals, families, schools, and communities. We also explore the impact of education and the housing crisis, with a particular focus on affordable housing not only being able to find a home but being able to maintain that affordability over time.At the beginning of our conversation, we also talk about another important part of Jeff’s life: his passion for podcasting. Jeff is the co-host of The Philadelphia Sports Table, a long-running sports podcast, and podcasting has given him another avenue to connect with people, share conversations, and build community.Ultimately, this episode is about more than a political race. It is about listening, asking difficult questions, understanding what families are experiencing, and having the necessary conversations to move our communities forward. Jeff shares his perspective on what he is hearing from residents, what he hopes to accomplish, and why he believes creating better outcomes for District 137 can also contribute to a stronger Lehigh Valley and a better Pennsylvania.Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about community, family, mental health, education, housing, affordability, leadership, and the future we are building for the next generation.November 3, 2026, is the General Election. Polls are open on election day from 7 AM – 8 PM. To obtain more information regarding the election in Northampton County, go to their website at www.norcopa.govB-Roll:B-roll materials were provided by Jeff WarrenThe Community Behind the Experience:The community behind the experience is made even special through amazing local entreprenuers; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, Bea’s Baked Art, and 1COR619FITNESS! 💛Thank you for being part of The Community Behind the Experience family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

What does it take to prepare your business for what’s next? In this special ToastiQueen episode, we’re shining a light on the importance of expanding your network, building meaningful connections, preparing for growth, and supporting small businesses.Join us for a conversation with Tiffany Sondergaard, Founder and CEO of Brand Elevation, and ToastiQueen, we explore valuable business resources and practical ways entrepreneurs can position themselves for continued growth and development. In addition, Tiffany is the co-host of Home for the Holidays Podcast.From expanding your network and preparing for your next level, to intentionally choosing to shop small and support local entrepreneurs, this episode is a reminder that business growth doesn’t happen in isolation, it happens through relationships, resources, community, and taking advantage of opportunities.Whether you're an established entrepreneur, an aspiring business owner, or someone looking to intentionally support small businesses this holiday season, ToastiQueen: Fueling Business Growth & Development offers a little encouragement, a few resources, and a reminder to keep growing, connecting, and preparing for what’s next. You may purchase tickets at https://www.tsbrandelevation.com/events, Fuiling Business growth. To receive a 10$ discount, apply the code: ATTITUDE when checking out.B-Roll:B-roll materials were provided by Tiffany SondergaardThe Community Behind the Experience:The community behind the experience is made even special through amazing local entreprenuers; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, Bea’s Baked Art, and 1COR619FITNESS! 💛Thank you for being part of The Community Behind the Experience family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, making this an important time to have conversations that can help us recognize what domestic violence can really look like.In this episode of The Attitude Lounge Podcast, I sit down with therapist Sarah Babcock, MS, LPC, NCC, DVT of The Cozy Corner Counseling, who is certified in domestic violence and trauma and provides both individual and group therapy.Together, we talk about the many forms domestic violence can take, because abuse isn’t always physical. It can show up through emotional and verbal abuse, intimidation, manipulation, control, isolation, financial abuse, and other behaviors that may be overlooked or normalized within a relationship.We also explore the complicated relationship between domestic violence, law enforcement, and the community, including why someone may hesitate to seek help, the challenges police can face when responding to domestic violence situations, and the importance of understanding what may be happening behind closed doors.Sarah helps us unpack some of the signs, misconceptions, and complexities surrounding domestic violence and why awareness and conversation matter.This conversation isn’t about judgment, it’s about education, understanding, and recognizing that sometimes what we’ve learned to accept as “normal” may not be healthy at all.Your Story Matters.Movie reference to The Notebook. Netflix documentary reference to Death of the Pastor's Wife. Corrections: Please check for the actual crimes for correct details of Jeffrey Dahmer's 14 year old victim in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the murder-suicide, where a man killed his ex-wife and then killed himself in the Lehigh Valley, PA.B-Rolls:Pictures used for the b-roll were  provided by Sarah Babcock and The Cozy Courner Counceling.The Community Behind the Experience:The Community Behind the Experience is made even more special through the generosity of our amazing entreprenuers; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, Bea’s Baked Art, and 1COR619 Fitness! 💛Thank you for being part of The Community Behind the Experience family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated!Remember:Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Knowing when you need support, and taking the step to seek it, is part of honoring your mental health and staying true to yourself.If you are in need of immediate assistance, please contact your local crisis county hotline, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911.Domestic Violence Resources:Victims Resource Center (Carbon, Luzerne, and Wyoming counties): https://vrcnepa.org/Turning Point of Lehigh Valley: https://turningpointlv.org/610-437-3369Bloom (safe housing): https://bloomforwomen.org/Crime Victims Council: https://www.cvclv.org/Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://www.pcadv.org/National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233LGBTQ+ Youth Resources:Valley Youth House Emergency Shelter:(Open 24/7/365 for youth ages 12–17)610-691-1200Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center:Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.610-347-9988County Resources:Lehigh County Crisis Intervention: 610-782-3127Northampton Country Crisis Intervention: 1-610-252-9060Carbon County Crisis Intervention: 610-377-0773Monroe County Crisis Intervention: 570-421-2901Pikes Country Crisis Intervention: 570-296-6484National Resources:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255National Crisis Text Line:Text 741-741988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:Call/Text 988 Thank you,AdDiTude  You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

In this episode of The Attitude Lounge, I sit down with Reverend Jeremy Lau, an ordained pastor in the New Creation United Church of Christ and a therapist in private practice, affiliated with The Cozy Corner Counseling, for a heartfelt conversation about faith, identity, belonging, and the power of simply listening.Jeremy shares parts of his own journey, including finding people and spaces that welcomed him when others had not, and how those experiences shaped the way he shows up for others today. At the heart of his message is something simple but powerful: every person deserves to be loved, valued, and reminded that they belong.As both an ordained pastor and therapist, Jeremy brings compassion, faith, and professional training into his work while giving people room to tell their own stories without feeling judged or having someone else's beliefs imposed upon them.That commitment is especially meaningful in his work with LGBTQ+ youth, where having a safe space to be heard, accepted, and loved can make all the difference.This conversation is about more than faith or therapy. It's about meeting people where they are, listening with an open heart, and reminding them that there is room for them at the table. Because everyone deserves a space where they can show up as themselves, and know they are worthy of love. Remember:Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Knowing when you need support, and taking the step to seek it, is part of honoring your mental health and staying true to yourself.If you are in need of immediate assistance, please contact your local crisis county hotline, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911.County Resources:Lehigh County Crisis Intervention: 610-782-3127Valley Youth House Emergency Shelter: 610-691-1200                                          (Open 24/7/365 for youth ages 12–17)Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center:Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.610-347-9988Northampton Country Crisis Intervention: 1-610-252-9060Carbon County Crisis Intervention: 610-377-0773Monroe County Crisis Intervention: 570-421-2901Pikes Country Crisis Intervention: 570-296-6484National Resources:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255National Crisis Text Line:Text 741-741988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:Call/Text 988 B-Roll Photo Credits:Photography featured in this episode courtesy of Reverend Jeremy Lau and the New Creation United Church of Christ (Facebook).The Attitude Lounge experience:The Attitude Lounge experience is made even more special through the generosity of our amazing community partners; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, and Bea’s Baked Art! 💛Thank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

What happens when two podcasters who genuinely love the Lehigh Valley sit down in the Lounge? You already know, we had plenty to talk about. 🎙️George and Crystal Wacker are founder and owner of Lehigh Valley with Love Media, including a podcast. George stepped into The Attitude Lounge to talk community, storytelling, small businesses, local artestry, podcasting, and 11 years of building a media company that started with a blog.We get into his Moravian University roots, his English degree, some of the memorable interviews he’s done, and how his work continues to keep him connected to the Lehigh Valley. And yes, we talked AI. 👀 The good, the bad, the possibilities, and where we think it may be taking media and content creation. We also talked about where we see the Lehigh Valley going and why telling the stories of the people who make up this community matters.Two podcasters. Two different platforms. One thing definitely in common, a whole lotta love for the Lehigh Valley. 🖤You may follow George on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok @lvwithlove or website at lvwithlove.comB-Roll Photo Credits: Photography featured in this episode courtesy of Lehigh Valley with Love, The Attitude Lounge Podcast, and Panchita's Kitchen.The Attitude Lounge experience:The Attitude Lounge experience is made even more special through the generosity of our amazing community partners; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, and Bea’s Baked Art! 💛Thank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

In this episode of The Attitude Lounge Podcast, I sit down with Arielle Arbushites, MSW, LSW, CPLC, ACHP-SW, a poet, published writer, and social worker whose work beautifully brings together storytelling, connection, grief, and the experiences that shape our lives.As a writer, Arielle’s poetry collection, Toast While the World Burns, was recently published by Bottlecap Press, and her work has also appeared in professional journals. Her first book "cracking at the Heels" was her first poetry collection sold in 2024. She has two more books being published by two different presses later this year (2026). Poetry is one of the ways she gives voice to thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences. She also brings her voice and perspective to The Cozy Corner Counseling Services as a blog writer, using the written word to explore topics that connect with everyday life and emotional well-being.As a social worker specializing in hospice and grief, Arielle supports individuals and families through some of life’s most tender moments. That same compassion carries into her community service work with seniors at Heather Glen Assisted Living, where she spends time listening to residents, helping preserve their life stories, memories, and reflections, and even writing personalized poetry for some of the residents. Through stories, letters, and poetry, she helps turn their experiences into meaningful words that can be treasured and shared.We talk about the intersection of writing, grief, memory, purpose, and legacy, and the importance of slowing down, listening, and creating space for people to tell the stories that matter to them.Because every life holds a story, and your story matters.Arielle's book, Toast While the World Burns, is availableto order through Bottlecap Press.Be sure to follow Arielle's work on socia media to stay connected with her writing, poetry, and latest projects  ⁨@Writingthewayhome⁩ Youtube, Instagram and Facebook. B-Roll Photo Credits:Photography and video featured in this episode courtesy of @girldadcolin and @writingmywayhomeMental Health Disclaimer:The Attitude Lounge and Arielle are here to create a safe space for conversation, awareness, encouragement, and connection. However, Arielle is not your therapist, and The Attitude Lounge does not provide professional mental health counseling or therapy.The conversations shared on this episode are intended for educational and informational purposes and are not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are experiencing emotional distress or feel that you need additional support, we encourage you to connect with a licensed mental health professional or explore community-based mental health resources and services available in your local area.Remember: Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Knowing when you need support, and taking the step to seek it, is part of honoring your mental health and staying true to yourself.If you are in need of immediate assistance, please contact your local crisis county hotline, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911. County Resources:Lehigh County Crisis Intervention: 610-782-3127Northampton Country Crisis Intervention: 1-610-252-9060Carbon County Crisis Intervention: (610) 377-0773Monroe County Crisis Intervention: (570) 421-2901Pikes Country Crisis Intervention: (570) 296-6484National Resources:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255National Crisis Text Line: Text741741Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text 988The Attitude Lounge experience:The Attitude Lounge experience is made even more special through the generosity of our amazing community partners; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, and Bea’s Baked Art! 💛Thank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

Tiffany Castillo is the owner of The Cozy Corner Counseling and a licensed Pennsylvania counselor with a heart for helping people. She has created a warm, welcoming space where individuals, couples, and families can feel heard, supported, and encouraged as they work through life's challenges.Tiffany is passionate about helping people build healthier relationships, set boundaries without guilt, improve communication, and learn to care for themselves just as much as they care for everyone else. Her approach is down-to-earth, compassionate, and centered on meeting people where they are, reminding us that healing and growth happen one step at a time.In this episode of The Attitude Lounge, I'm joined by Tiffany. Together, we explore the importance of setting healthy boundaries, recognizing the relationships that help us grow, and finding the courage to stay true to who you are, even when it's difficult. We also discuss how self-awareness, communication, and personal growth can transform the way we connect with others and with ourselves.Whether you're navigating friendships, family dynamics, romantic relationships, or simply learning to prioritize your own well-being, this conversation offers meaningful perspective, practical insight, and heartfelt encouragement to remind you that protecting your peace isn't selfish, it's an important part of living authentically. Mental Health Disclaimer:The Attitude Lounge and Tiffany are here to create a safe space for conversation, awareness, encouragement, and connection. However, Tiffany is not your therapist, and The Attitude Lounge does not provide professional mental health counseling or therapy.The conversations shared on this episode are intended for educational and informational purposes and are not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are experiencing emotional distress or feel that you need additional support, we encourage you to connect with a licensed mental health professional or explore community-based mental health resources and services available in your local area.Remember: Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Knowing when you need support, and taking the step to seek it, is part of honoring your mental health and staying true to yourself.If you are in need of immediate assistance, please contact your local crisis county hotline, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911. County Resources:Lehigh County Crisis Intervention: 610-782-3127Northampton Country Crisis Intervention: 1-610-252-9060Carbon County Crisis Intervention: (610) 377-0773Monroe County Crisis Intervention: (570) 421-2901Pikes Country Crisis Intervention: (570) 296-6484National Resources:National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255National Crisis Text Line: Text741741Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text 988The Attitude Lounge experience:The Attitude Lounge experience is made even more special through the generosity of our amazing community partners; Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, and Bea’s Baked Art! 💛Thank you for sharing your sample products and gifts with our guests and helping us create a thoughtful goodie bag filled with little touches of love, self-care, creativity, and community. Your generosity adds an extra layer to the Lounge experience and reminds us that when we support one another, we create something truly special. ✨Thank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

Step into a world where fragrance becomes an experience with Mildred Shehab, founder and experience curator of Halo Scent Fragrance Bar. More than a mobile perfume station, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar transforms celebrations into immersive sensory experiences where guests discover, blend, and create signature scents that capture the essence of life's most meaningful moments.With a passion for connection, creativity, and intentional details, Mildred has designed an elevated fragrance experience that invites guests to explore carefully curated scent notes and craft personalized perfumes, and room sprays. Halo Scent Fragrance Bars create memorable, interactive guest experiences that combine personalization with luxury. Halo Scent Fragrance Bar offers bespoke experiences for:*Weddings and bridal showers*Baby showers and birthdays *Corporate and networking events *Brand activations and private parties*Pop-up experiences*Community gatherings and so much more Every activation is thoughtfully curated to reflect each host's vision, ensuring every detail from scent selections to packaging and presentation feels unique and unforgettable.At the heart of Halo Scent Fragrance Bar is Mildred's belief that scent has the power to evoke memories, spark emotion, and create meaningful connections. Through her expertise and creativity, she transforms ordinary events into unforgettable moments that guests can literally take with them long after the celebration ends.You may contact Mildred via her Halo Scent Fragrance Bar social platforms:Facebook       Instagram      TikTokThank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude

In this episode of The Attitude Lounge, we sit down with Taisha (Tai) Alonzo, the heart behind Earthshine Holistics, to talk about wellness, intentional living, and creating a brand rooted in purpose. * Essential oils* Candles* Teas* Soaps* Body Scrubs* Breath WorkTaisha shares how she uses creativity and mindfulness to create products and experiences that encourage people to slow down, reset, and reconnect with themselves. She also opens up about the intentionality she pours into every product she makes, making sure each item carries calming energy, care, and meaning. We dive into the balance she carries as a mother, wife, employee at From Lino, and entrepreneurship, while discussing self-care, discipline, and staying grounded through it all. This episode is filled with peaceful energy, inspiration, conversation, community connection, and a reminder that passion, healing, and purpose can beautifully coexist.Please show her some love and follow her social media platforms on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @earthshineholisticsIf you would like to purchase any of Earthshine Holistics wellness products, they are available on the website here.If you would like to schedule a Breathwork session, you may do that through the website here. If you have any questions, contact Earthshine Holistics here. Thank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok. Build community and support local.Thank you,AdDiTude