Valley Spotlight hosts Mike Case and Lauren Lindvig-Housel have made spreading good news their specialty. Together, they’ve built a show that celebrates the everyday people who make the Mahoning Valley a place full of heart and pride. What started as a simple idea, to tell the good stories that weren’t being told, it has grown into a beloved program. Airing on Sundays and online, Valley Spotlight gives viewers a reason to smile, laugh, and feel proud of where they live.
“When we started Valley Spotlight, the goal was simple: tell the good stories that weren’t being told,” Lauren says. “After years in news, we both felt there were so many people, businesses, and moments in our community that tell a story, not for controversy or clicks, but because they represented what makes the Valley special.” Mike agrees, adding, “Lauren and I just love to tell a good story. On a newscast, you can’t always show the full story, but on our program, we can let them breathe. At first, we planned to do a few short stories, and then we expanded to an hour, which gave us the space to do so much more.”
That creative freedom has led to countless memorable moments. “There have been so many,” Lauren recalls. “One story that stuck with me was about a woman named Peggy who has been taking care of a small area on the west side of Youngstown for almost 20 years—just so people wouldn’t have to look at a mess. She didn’t want recognition; she just wanted to help. Those are the stories that stay with you long after the cameras are off.” Mike says that variety is part of what makes the show special. “We’ve had sick people making a difference, young people making a difference, and I like the fun stories too. It’s a feel-good show. We want people to feel good when they watch, and I think we accomplish that.”
Both Mike and Lauren’s backgrounds in broadcasting have shaped the tone and mission of Valley Spotlight. “Lauren is a better reporter than I’ll ever be,” Mike laughs. “She’s great at getting good stories and sharing them with viewers. I like to make people laugh—that keeps things light but still meaningful.” Lauren adds, “Broadcasting taught us the value of storytelling and connection, but it also showed us what was missing. Valley Spotlight lets us slow down and tell stories the way they deserve to be told, with soul.”
The goal has always been to highlight what’s right about the Valley. “We hope it reminds people that there’s still so much good here,” Lauren says. “If one viewer decides to try a new restaurant, support a local maker, or just feels prouder of the Valley after watching, we’ve done our job.” Mike adds, “I just hope it makes people smile and think a little bit. There are a lot of people who want to help, they just don’t know how. Some of our stories give them easy ways to pitch in and make a difference.”
Both agree that the people of the Mahoning Valley are what make the area so special. “I’ve learned that people are loyal and will support the people and ideas they love,” Mike says. “It’s been really fulfilling.” Lauren adds, “The Valley’s greatest strength is its people, resourceful, loyal, funny, and tough in the best way. There’s a humility here, but when you dig deeper, you find some of the most inspiring stories you’ll ever hear.”
As for what’s next, Valley Spotlight is continuing to grow and give back. “We’re giving away two furnaces this year with our friends from Gault Heating and Cooling,” Lauren shares. “People can nominate someone in need or enter themselves—plus, we’re giving away some great tech and a Nintendo Switch! Just go to ValleySpotlight.com.” Mike is equally enthusiastic. “We’re going to be talking with Shaun Cassidy soon, and we’ve got a fun interview coming up with a local YouTube creator. You’ll just have to watch to find out more.”
At its core, Valley Spotlightis more than a show, it’s a reflection of a community that cares, works hard, and still finds reasons to smile. As Mike sums it up best: “Just keep watching and support the local businesses we spotlight. These are good people doing good things. Let’s keep cheering them on.”
