The Spark

When people come together and talk about really interesting topics, great questions spark better understanding and opportunities for new ideas to form. On The Spark from WITF, host Asia Tabb starts conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.

The Spark is a news podcast hosted by WITF, with 243 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

WITF hosts The Spark, a news show with 243 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  The Spark

  The Spark Weekly | October 4 | The End of the Penny

  Oct 3, 202644 min

  Juniata County’s history comes to life through the work of the Jessica Eaton Guyer, curator of the Tuscarora Academy Museum, president of the Juniata County Historical Society, and county advisor for America250PA. In this episode, we explore the mission of the Juniata County Historical Society and its efforts to discover, preserve, and share the rich history of the county. The penny has been part of American life for more than 230 years, but Congress has decided its time has come to an end. On this episode, we speak with leaders of the Pennsylvania Association of Numismatists about the decision to stop minting the one-cent coin, the economic factors behind it, and what the change means for collectors and consumers.

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  The Spark

  Autumn Gardens & Hidden Histories Through Art

  Oct 2, 202644 min

  Erica Jo joins us as we explore the world of seasonal transitions that make autumn a critical time for gardeners and growers. Erica shares practical tips for fall planting, garden maintenance, soil preparation, and protecting plants as temperatures begin to cool. We also discuss the beauty of the autumn landscape, ways to extend the growing season, and how thoughtful fall gardening can set the stage for a healthier, more vibrant garden in the spring. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just getting started, this episode offers timely advice and inspiration for making the most of the October growing season. We speak with Hong Huo , Assistant Professor of Graphic Design & Digital Media at Messiah University, about Dirty Laundry: The Hidden History , an exhibition that explores Chinese immigration history through art, design, and dance. Inspired by choreographer Li Chiao-Ping’s multimedia dance project, the exhibition brings together creative research, visual storytelling, and interdisciplinary collaboration to uncover overlooked historical narratives.

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  The Spark

  Lancaster Symphony at 80 and the End of the Penny

  Oct 1, 202644 min

  Celebrate 80 years of music, community, and artistic excellence as we preview the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra’s 2026-2027 80th Anniversary Season with Executive Director Guy McIntosh . In this episode, we explore a landmark season featuring nine unforgettable concerts, from The Music of Queen and Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight to A Broadway New Year and Beethoven’s monumental Ninth Symphony . The penny has been a part of American life for more than 230 years, but Congress has decided its days are numbered. In this episode, we talk with leaders of the Pennsylvania Association of Numismatists about the decision to end production of the one-cent coin and what it means for consumers, collectors, and the future of U.S. currency.

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  The Spark

  The Velveteen Rabbit, Young Artists & Revolutionary Dining

  Sep 30, 202644 min

  We speak with Michael Gamon , composer of The Velveteen Rabbit and Creative & Fine Arts Chair at Harrisburg Academy; Ava Rooney , Harrisburg Academy student and performer in the title role; and Tami Swartz , Artistic & Executive Director of Harrisburg Opera Association and production manager for the opera. Together, they discuss the creative journey of adapting a cherished story for the stage, the importance of children's opera, and the unique educational opportunities created through Harrisburg Opera Association's collaboration with Harrisburg Academy and Silver Academy. Hear how young performers work alongside professional artists, develop valuable skills, and help bring this heartwarming new work to life ahead of its world premiere performances on October 23 and 25, 2026. We also re-air a conversation with Food writer, librarian and research historian Becky Libourel Diamond joins The Spark to discuss her new book, City Tavern: The Founding Table—Colonial Dining, Revolutionary History, and the Restaurant at the Center of It All . The book explores Philadelphia’s iconic City Tavern and its role as a gathering place during the American Revolution, where Continental Congress delegates and other influential figures met, shared ideas and conducted business over food and drink.

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  The Spark

  Shakespeare, History & Culture in Central PA

  Sep 29, 202644 min

  We go behind the scenes with the team at Gamut Theatre Group to explore their bold new production of The Tempest , running October 3–18 in Harrisburg. Directed by Diego Sandino , this fresh interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic relocates the story to the magical island of Ometepe, Nicaragua , blending timeless themes with rich Latin American culture. We sit down with Jessica Eaton Guyer , Curator of the Tuscarora Academy Museum , President of the Juniata County Historical Society , and Juniata County Advisor for America250PA . Jessica shares her passion for preserving local history and highlights the important work of the Historical Society, whose mission is to discover, preserve, and share the rich heritage of Juniata County.

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