For this episode of Area Code: Batavia, former guests share their "George Baileys", people who have made a huge impact on them and their community just by existing. On this episode we hear from the following people in this order:

1. Batavia Bulldogs Football Team Head Coach, Dennis Piron
2. Becoming Neighbors host, Claudia Kabanyana
3. Beardsgaard's Natalie and Tyler Anderson
4. Bulldog Plumbing and Start Something's Jamie Saam
5. Mayor Tom and Linda Sheilke
6. Chip In's Joanne Spitz
7. Area Code: Batavia Producer, Jennifer Clark
8. The Popcorn Depot's Talitha and Dave Mueller
9. Sturdy Shelter's Alexa Swidenbank
10. Becoming Neighbors host, David Fraccaro
11. Tri-Cities Central's Sam Kraft

This episode of Area Code: Batavia is sponsored by Bulldog Plumbing. To schedule an appointment, call: 630-313-9109.

This episode of Area Code: Batavia is sponsored by Zen Loft Collective, a collection of wellness spaces located in the heart of downtown Batavia. Register now to receive $20 off a class or package with the code AREACODE.

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Area Code: Batavia is always looking for sponsors. Click here for more information.

Area Code: Batavia is produced by Area Code Audio. It's hosted and produced by Richard Clark. Edited and mixed by Matt Linder. Additional production help from Jennifer Clark.

Take our listener survey to help shape the future of Area Code: Batavia. (and earn a chance to win $25 in Chamber Bucks!)

Is Batavia actually special, or is that just something we tell ourselves?

In this episode, I speak to Eileen Passero, Executive Director of the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry, to explore how their work relates to Batavia's character and aspirations for itself.

We discuss why the old "box of mystery food" model is gone, how a "Client Choice" shopping experience restores dignity, and the incredible series of events—involving a stressed-out Eileen and a student driver—that led them to this specific building.

Join The 630 Community

Gain access to Batavia Favs segments, behind-the-scenes insights, free access for you and a friend to our live shows, and complimentary local perks from some of your favorite local businesses.

Subscribe to our newsletter to be updated about Area Code: Batavia and find out when new episodes are available.

Area Code: Batavia is always looking for sponsors. Click here for more information.

Area Code: Batavia is produced by Area Code Audio. It's hosted and produced by Richard Clark. Edited and mixed by Matt Linder. Additional production help from Jennifer Clark.

Take our listener survey to help shape the future of Area Code: Batavia. (and earn a chance to win $25 in Chamber Bucks!)

A few weeks ago, Paula Mueller, the owner of Paula’s Couture Consignment dropped a bombshell - she would be giving up ownership of Paula’s.

But this announcement came with another announcement: Paula’s now has a new owner, long-time Paula’s employee, and entrepreneur herself, Amanda Mistretta.

I’ve talked to Paula before for this podcast, and I was struck by just how important Paula’s was to so many when it comes to their sense of belonging in Batavia. And not just to her customers, but to Paula herself.

So when I heard this news I knew I had to talk to Paula’s and Amanda about exactly how this came to be, how Paula prepared herself to give up her own creation, and how Amanda moved past the inevitable imposter syndrome to step into this new stage of her own life.

Join The 630 Community - Gain access to Batavia Favs segments, behind-the-scenes insights, free access for you and a friend to our live shows, and complimentary local perks (coming soon!).

Subscribe to our newsletter to be updated about Area Code: Batavia and find out when new episodes are available.

Area Code: Batavia is always looking for sponsors. Click here for more information.

Area Code: Batavia is produced by Area Code Audio. It's hosted and produced by Richard Clark. Edited and mixed by Matt Linder. Additional production help from Jennifer Clark.