2025 marked a milestone year for LKNConnect.com, as the platform’s new website reached more than 200,000 viewers each month across video content, shopping guides, dining features, and its online Digital Magazine. This growth solidified LKNConnect’s role as the central digital hub for Lake Norman residents, connecting the community through stories, insights, and opportunities to shop local.
One of LKNConnect’s greatest achievements in 2025 was the rise of its family of video podcasts, which transformed the platform into a true multimedia destination for local stories, expertise, and entertainment. These shows — including Beyond the Surface, Business Spotlight, Colin Furcht’s Backstage Pass, Front Porch Report, LKN Live Music Scene, People in the Know, Sideline Sage, and Weekly Connections — gave Lake Norman residents new reasons to tune in every week, not just to scroll past a post, but to stop, watch, and connect.
Beyond The Surface
Hosted by Marissa Allegretto, Beyond the Surface invited viewers to discover the art and science behind healthy, glowing skin. Drawing on her professional expertise in skincare, Marissa combined practical education with approachable, real‑world advice—breaking down complex topics into simple, effective routines anyone could follow. Each episode blended trusted knowledge, product insights, and personal care strategies that encouraged viewers to feel more confident, informed, and radiant in their own skin.
Business Spotlight
Hosted by Andrea Ervay, Business Spotlight showcased standout local entrepreneurs and service providers, offering them professional, shareable exposure. These features often tied into Weekly Connections segments, celebrating the businesses shaping the region’s economy and inspiring community pride in local innovation.
Colin Furcht’s Backstage Pass
Colin Furcht’s Backstage Pass took viewers behind the curtain of the region’s vibrant live music scene, pairing artist interviews with stories from venue owners and superfans. Each episode offered insider access to how shows come together, what inspires local musicians, and where to catch the next great night out.
Front Porch Report: Heart of Lake Norman
Hosted by Cristin Dorninger, The Front Porch Report brought the spirit of “life by the lake” to life through heartfelt storytelling and real estate insights. With discussions on local housing trends, giving back, and neighborhood highlights, the show deepened LKNConnect’s role as both a trusted guide and a neighborly voice celebrating Lake Norman living.
LKN Live Music Scene
Also hosted by Colin Furcht, LKN Live Music Scene delivered weekly rundowns of where to hear live bands around Lake Norman. Designed as a weekend preview for music lovers, it boosted visibility for venues and performers alike and helped residents experience “the rhythm of the weekend.” Musicians praised Colin’s authentic support and coverage of the scene.
People in the Know
Hosted by Margi Kyle, People in the Know became LKNConnect’s trusted destination for expert insight and community perspective. Featuring local professionals, business leaders, and influencers, it delivered practical tips and insider knowledge on finance, careers, health, and lifestyle — all through conversational, approachable interviews that featured recognizable Lake Norman voices.
Sideline Sage
Hosted by Frank Ober, The Sideline Sage is Lake Norman’s home for Fantasy Football fans. Active from August through Super Bowl Week, the show delivers weekly updates with injury reports, must‑start players, sleeper picks, and bold predictions to help viewers dominate their fantasy leagues. Frank’s mix of sharp analysis, humor, and on‑point forecasting makes Sideline Sage a crowd favorite during football season.
Weekly Connections
Weekly Connections quickly became a “must‑watch” favorite for anyone wanting to stay plugged into life around Lake Norman. What began as a weekly events guide evolved into a lively, personality‑driven show hosted by Lynn Marshall and Brian Lafontaine. Viewers tuned in for its fast, friendly rundown of can’t‑miss happenings, local business spotlights, and community updates that helped residents plan their week with confidence. Each episode felt like a visit with a well‑connected friend — from concerts and family events to new restaurant openings and holiday celebrations.
By the end of 2025, this powerhouse lineup — Beyond the Surface, Business Spotlight, Colin Furcht’s Backstage Pass, Front Porch Report, LKN Live Music Scene, People in the Know, Sideline Sage, and Weekly Connections — had defined LKNConnect’s video‑first identity. Together, these shows drove consistent traffic to LKNConnect.com, elevated local voices and businesses, and established video podcasts as one of the platform’s signature achievements of 2025.
Looking ahead, LKNConnect is exploring new video shows that bring shopping, dining, neighborhood news, and local deals to life on screen. These series will make it even easier for residents to discover:
Together, these new shows will extend LKNConnect’s role as a trusted guide for shopping, savings, dining, and everyday neighborhood life around Lake Norman.
