Her Story

Shari Kruzinski, Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banking Officer at WSFS Bank is this week's guest. Over her remarkable 33-year career, Shari climbed from the branch level to the executive suite, leading major acquisitions and transforming customer experience. But what makes her story especially compelling is how she's balanced her rise through banking leadership with raising four children. As a passionate advocate for working mothers, Shari serves on the Greater Philadelphia Market Board for March of Dimes. Named Female Business Leader of the Year and a Woman of Distinction, she's here to share her journey of breaking glass ceilings while building a legacy of support for other women. Shari’s journey from a bank branch to the executive suite proves that with determination, strategic vision, and a commitment to both professional excellence and community support, women can truly transform industries.Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM in Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guest.

According to National Breast Cancer.org in 2024, more than 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Advancements in early detection methods and support continue to increase the chances of survival.This week I was joined by a remarkable woman who turned a personal experience into a global mission of comfort and care.Katelynn Devinney is the founder of Pockets of Hope, a nonprofit organization that creates specially adapted sweatshirts for women recovering from mastectomy surgery.After her own mother's mastectomy in Jan 2022, Katelynn recognized a simple yet crucial need: a comfortable way for women to manage post-surgery drainage tubes.What started as a response to one woman's journey has blossomed into an extraordinary movement.This inspiring initiative is making a real difference in the lives of breast cancer patients across the globe.If you or someone you know is facing mastectomy surgery, remember that comfort and dignity are just a click away. Visit pocketsofhope.com to request a free specially-designed sweatshirt or to learn how you can support this remarkable mission.One in eight women will face breast cancer, but early detection saves lives. When caught early, the five-year survival rate is 99%.Don't wait. That 30-minute appointment could give you years of precious moments with loved ones. Call your healthcare provider today to schedule a mammogram.  Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM in Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guest.

Terry Grahl is the Founder and CEO of Enchanted Makeovers, a national non-profit organization based in Michigan that's helping transform shelters for women and children across the United States.Terry's journey began 16 years ago when a simple request to paint a shelter wall led to a life-changing realization. Drawing from her background as an interior decorator, she founded Enchanted Makeovers to create empowering spaces that foster healing, creativity, and self-expression for those rebuilding their lives.Terry’s work reminds us that transformation goes far beyond physical spaces – it's about creating environments that nurture hope, creativity, and self-worth. To learn more about Enchanted Makeovers go to enchantedmakeovers.org.  Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM in Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guest.

Janelle Gabel, a 36-year-old mother of three, made the extraordinary decision to become a living kidney donor. Her journey began when her elementary school friend was diagnosed with kidney disease, sparking an immediate sense that she would be the one to help.From the initial testing to the life-changing surgery, Janelle’s unwavering commitment to her friend led to not just one, but two transformed lives. Now, approaching her six-month follow-up, she shares her remarkable story of organ donation, the surprisingly peaceful experience of her first-ever surgery, and how this selfless act has changed her perspective on life. Janelle’s life-changing decision to donate her kidney not only transformed her friend's life but also set in motion a chain of events that affected multiple lives for the better.  Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings on 93.3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guest. 

Lifestyle expert Veena Crownholm shares Her Story with Kathy RomanoWith Halloween just around the corner, lifestyle expert Veena Crownholm shares her spooktacular ideas.As a mom of two, former QVC brand ambassador, and craft enthusiast, Veena's known for her clever ideas of turning her favorite Netflix shows into Halloween costumes.With 130,000 Instagram followers, Veena's become a go-to source for seasonal inspiration.For instructions on how to create unique Halloween costumes check out Veena's Instagram or her website VeenaGoelCrownholm.com.Whether you're crafting costumes, decorating your home, or planning for the holiday season, Veena's tips are sure to add some extra magic to your celebration.Embrace your inner child, let your imagination run wild, and have a fantastically spooky time this season!Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings on 93.3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guest. 

This week's guest is a culinary entrepreneur who's bringing a taste of Brazil to Pennsylvania.Daniela De Souza, the owner of Feine Coffee Roasters in Conshohocken has been serving up top-notch coffee to her community for over a decade.During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic when everyone faced closures and restrictions, Daniela turned to her roots, baking childhood favorites from her native Brazil.The enthusiastic response from her community led to the birth of the Merenda Box, a Brazilian bakery.From Rio to Conshohocken PA, Daniela transformed her childhood memories into a thriving business.Her journey reminds us that our cultural roots can fuel innovation, even in challenging times.Daniela's passion for sharing authentic Brazilian flavors, her resilience as an entrepreneur, and her dedication to her community are truly admirable.You can go to drinkfeine.com and merendabox.com for more information on both of her businesses. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings on 93.3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guest. 

Welcome to Kathy’s Fall Activities list for 2024! As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp chill fills the air, it’s time once again to embrace the magic of autumn. This year, I’m thrilled to share with you my carefully curated list of seasonal delights that capture the very essence of fall. From cozy DIY workshops that’ll spark your creativity to family-friendly adventures that will create lasting memories, this year’s lineup has something for everyone. Get ready for enchanting Spooky Tea Parties, fun Halloween-themed events, and an abundance of fall fun that will warm your heart as the days grow cooler. I’ve personally selected each activity on this list because they’re experiences I genuinely love sharing with my family and friends. My hope is that through these activities, you’ll discover new ways to savor this wonderful season and create your own cherished fall traditions. So grab your favorite sweater, pour yourself a mug of hot apple cider, and let’s dive into Kathy’s Fall Activities 2024. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings on 93.3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week's guest. 

Jane Mack is the CEO of Friends Services Alliance, a Blue Bell-based organization that advises non-profit senior living programs across Pennsylvania. She is an expert in aging services and has been a pivotal figure in the industry for decades. Under her leadership, FSA experienced remarkable growth and innovation. Jane's contributions have earned her prestigious recognitions, including the Nonprofit Female Executive of the Year at the Stevie Awards and induction into the McKnight's Hall of Honor. As she approaches retirement in early 2025, Jane shares her insights on the future of senior services and offers valuable advice for those seeking information on aging services. Whether you're planning for your own future or caring for a loved one, resources are available to help navigate the journey of aging. For more information visit fsainfo.org. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM.  Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at this week’s guests. 

Ally Rynkiewicz is the owner and operator of Rise & Shine Flower Farm and founder of the Bucks County Flower Collective. Her journey began in her grandmother's garden, blossoming through years of community service and entrepreneurship in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Inspired by her love for nature and recognizing the need for connection in the flower farming community, Ally founded the Bucks County Flower Collective with 3 other growers. This group of now ten flower growers now provides wholesale flowers, bulk buckets, and retail bouquets, while also organizing community events and workshops. The collective aims to promote locally grown flowers and support local farmers.  As fall begins, Ally provides advice on garden maintenance, fall flower selection, grub control, and ideal choices for seasonal planters. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week's guest. 

This week we have a special guest who's taken her experience from the small screen to the big stage of real-world activism.  Melissa Fitzgerald is best known for her role as Carol Fitzpatrick, C.J.'s assistant on the hit series The West Wing.Melissa's journey didn't end when the cameras stopped rolling. She has a new book, "What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service."From Hollywood to the halls of justice, Melissa now champions reform in Washington D.C., where she serves as director of strategic engagement for the nonprofit All Rise.From her days on The West Wing to her current role championing justice system reform, Melissa's journey is truly inspiring. Melissa's new book, "What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service" is available now at bookstores everywhere. For those interested in learning more about Melissa's work with All Rise, you can find information on AllRise.org. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7 AM on 93.3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. 

Aimee Prange is a licensed clinical social worker with nearly a quarter-century of experience in the field. She earned her master's degree in Social Work from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, laying the foundation for a career marked by compassion and expertise . Currently serving as the board President for the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention Greater Philadelphia Chapter, Aimee specializes in suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. Her commitment to suicide prevention is rooted not only in professional interest but also in personal experience. As both an attempt survivor and a loss survivor, Aimee brings a unique perspective to her work, combining clinical expertise with lived experience. Aimee's insights into suicide prevention, her journey in the field of social work, and her personal experiences have shaped her mission to bring hope to others. Her life's purpose is to save lives and spread hope. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please remember that you're not alone. Help is available, and there are people ready to listen and support you. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is just a phone call away. By dialing 988, you can connect with trained counselors who are there to provide support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Remember, your life matters. Your pain is valid, but it doesn't have to be permanent. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By calling 988, you're taking an important step towards hope and healing. No matter how dark things may seem right now, there is hope. People care, and support is available.Dial 988 and take that first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Your life is precious, and you deserve support and care. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sundays at 7am on 93. 3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. 

Jessica Hallahan is a stress management health educator with a unique approach to helping people navigate the challenges of everyday stress. Jessica holds a Master's in Public Health from West Chester University and is the founder of Journey to Yourself. Her career path, which began in the Drug and Alcohol field, led her to recognize a universal struggle: the difficulty many face in handling stress effectively. Her coaching focuses on developing effective habits to improve communication, time management, and healthy boundaries. Jessica's emphasis on stress, time management and healthy boundaries as a crucial skill resonates deeply in our fast-paced world. Her strategies for healing from stress offer hope for those feeling overwhelmed by life's demands. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM.  Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guests. 

This week's guest is Carissa Hetrick, a dynamic force in the world of personal development and empowerment. As an ICF Accredited Coach and founder of The High Impact Mindset Co., Carissa has made it her mission to help individuals unlock their fullest potential and live authentically. Drawing from her background in Marketing Strategy and Corporate roles, Carissa brings a unique perspective to her coaching practice. Her innovative C.O.R.E Method of Success Framework has guided countless clients to rewire their mindsets and overcome limiting beliefs, leading to extraordinary transformations. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM in Philadelphia. Follow @HerStory933 on Instagram for a first look at each week's guest. 

Leiza Stanley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist and the founder of Revive Wellness, a boutique therapy practice focused on treating eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. With a Master's degree from Temple University and over 15 years of clinical experience, Leiza has built a reputation as an expert in her field. Her approach to therapy emphasizes the power of authentic relationships and personal growth, believing that everyone has the capacity for meaningful change. Leiza’s expertise spans a wide range of crucial mental health issues that reminds us of the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with complex issues like eating disorders, trauma, and relationship difficulties. For those interested in learning more about Leiza Stanley's work or seeking professional help, you to reach out to her practice at revivewellnesstherapy.com or consult with a qualified mental health professional in your area. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM.  Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guests. 

As we find ourselves in the heart of summer, with beach getaways, lake retreats, European adventures, and lazy days by the pool, there's one thing we all have in common - increased sun exposure. But are we making skin protection the priority it should be? To help us answer this crucial question and provide expert insights, this week's guest is a prominent figure in the field of dermatology. Dr. Naz Saedi, a board-certified dermatologist at the Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice. With years of experience and a passion for skin health, Dr. Saedi is here to shed light on the importance of sun protection and share valuable tips to keep our skin safe while enjoying all that summer has to offer. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM.  Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at this week’s guests. 

This week's guest is Wall Street Legend Patricia Walsh Chadwick. In her new book, "BREAKING GLASS: Tales from the Witch of Wall Street," Patricia takes readers on a journey through her unconventional upbringing and her relentless pursuit of success in a male-dominated industry. Forced out of her home at just 17 years old, after escaping a religious cult, Patricia defied the odds and carved her path to the top of the financial world. Join us as we dive into her extraordinary life and discover the insights and wisdom she has to share from her incredible journey. Patricia’s book is available all places books are sold. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM.  Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at this week’s guests. 

This week Her Story is featuring culinary pioneer and wellness guru Meridith Coyle, CEO of Aneu Kitchens and Catering. Discover how she’s revolutionizing healthy eating with her “craveable” meals and learn about her exciting new venture at Valley Forge Park!Hear Meridith’s inspiring journey, business insights, and the secret ingredient she adds to Mac & Cheese! Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings on 93.3 WMMR-FM Philadelphia. 

This week's guest is Tiana Patillo, a Financial Advisor Manager at Vanguard. Since she began her journey with the company in 2012, Tiana has excelled in various roles, offering invaluable investment, retirement, and advisory services to clients. Now, as an advisor coach, she dedicates her time to providing ongoing support, helping Vanguard's clients achieve their investment goals. Tiana's passion for education and exceptional service shines through in her work. She thrives on building meaningful relationships with both her colleagues and clients, guiding them toward personal and financial success. Beyond her professional achievements, Tiana is deeply committed to closing the financial literacy gap in underserved communities. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM.  Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at this week’s guests. 

From her beginnings as a distinguished DEA agent to her pivotal role in leading a corporate security firm acquired by a Fortune 500 giant, Ann Hayes' career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. Today, as the founder of Investigative Management Group (IMG), she continues to redefine excellence in the high-end investigative market, providing top-tier corporate security and intelligence services and crisis management for a Major League Baseball Team. Ann is also cultivating a vibrant floral community in Bucks County. As one of the eight visionary women behind the Bucks County Flower Collective Bucks County Flower Collective, she nurtures Southern Pines farm into a haven for creativity and growth, where workshops flourish and weekly flower pickups bloom. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at this week’s guests. 

Deesha Dyer, former White House social secretary and now CEO of Hook & Fasten, shares her journey from battling imposter syndrome to embracing authenticity in her uplifting memoir, "Undiplomatic." She discusses navigating self-doubt while orchestrating historic events and curating unforgettable parties at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Through humor and candor, Deesha reveals the hard truths behind her rise to the top and invites readers on a journey of self-discovery. From her award-winning strategies to her commitment to social impact, Deesha's story inspires audiences worldwide to embrace their unique worth and find joy in authenticity. Her Story is hosted by Kathy Romano and airs Sunday mornings at 7am on 93.3 WMMR-FM. Follow Her Story on Instagram for a first look at each week’s guests.