The Community Cast Podcast

Episode 120

Supporting Small Businesses with Big Ideas with Julie Spugnardi

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Julie Spugnardi, Co-Owner of Bootstrap Marketing. Julie shares her journey from growing up in Lewiston to launching a business during the pandemic. They talk about navigating work-life balance, building a resilient business, and the power of community. Julie also offers advice on staying curious, embracing change, and finding success by helping others.

Episode 119

Innovation, Sustainability and Community Impact with Ben Davis

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Ben Davis, Co-Founder of OpBox. Ben shares his journey from sailor to entrepreneur, overcoming early production challenges, the development of the eco-friendly EDURA Building System and discusses OpBox’s community impact through local partnerships and sustainable design solutions.

Episode 118

From Spanish Teacher to Tech CEO with Matt McGrath

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Matt McGrath, President and CEO of Systems Engineering. Matt shares his journey from teaching to tech leadership, what it means to prioritize client relationships and how Systems Engineering helps businesses create a culture of security to mitigate human errors and evolving threats.

Episode 117

Cans from Campers: A Mission to End Hunger with Dottie Reed

In this episode Carissa Chipman interviews Dottie Reed of Camp Pemigewassett. They discuss the "Cans from Campers" initiative, a food drive designed to combat summertime food insecurity. Dottie shares the origins, impact, and national recognition of the program, encouraging other camps to participate. For more info, visit cansfromcampers.com.

Episode 116

Empowering Community Wellness with Jamie Racine

In this episode, Carissa Chipman chats with Jamie Racine, founder and executive director of The Integrated Life. They discuss TIL’s commitment to diverse mental health needs, including outreach services and a domestic violence workshop. Jamie highlights the importance of trauma-informed care for better client outcomes and shares her pride in her staff’s professional growth, teamwork, and their creative ideas to improve the agency and client services.

Episode 115

Revolutionizing Clean Energy and Community Impact with Phil Coupe

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Phil Coupe, co-founder of Revision Energy. Phil shares his journey from journalism to launching Revision Energy, emphasizing aligning career and values. He discusses the affordability and benefits of solar energy. Phil also talks about Revision Energy's community initiatives under their Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) program.

Episode 114

What Is Happening and How Did We Get Here? with Linda Varrell

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Linda Varrell, Founder and President of Broadreach Public Relations LLC. Discover Linda's journey from banking to PR and learn how Broadreach focuses on building, protecting, and preserving clients' reputational capital. They discuss effective crisis management strategies, their commitment to giving back and the benefits of implementing an Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).

Episode 113

Overcoming Challenges and Building Empathy with Bruce King

In this episode, Carissa Chipman chats with Bruce King, Executive Director of Maine Boys to Men. Bruce shares his inspiring journey from incarceration to working in youth development and becoming Executive Director. He discusses the importance of developing empathetic boys and men and highlights how Maine Boys to Men collaborates with schools to foster supportive environments for youth.

Episode 112

Values and Vision in Wealth Management with Helen Andreoli

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Helen Andreoli, Founding Partner and President of Great Diamond Partners. They discuss the core principles of Great Diamond Partners, the importance of proactive client education and personalized financial planning services and how consumers are seeking purpose-driven organizations. Lastly, Helen shares insights on balancing professional and personal life, with a focus on family priorities and making a positive impact.

Episode 111

Clean Innovations with Emily Machesney

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Emily Machesney, Human Resources Manager at Pratt Abbott. They discuss how Pratt Abbott provides first-time job opportunities for young Mainers, enhancing the customer experience through technology, and supporting the community through initiatives like "Coats for Kids" and providing laundry services to a summer camp in Maine.

Episode 110

The Retro Roadtripper: Discovering New England with Joshua Hrehovcik

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Joshua Hrehovcik, photographer and writer of The Retro Roadtripper. Joshua talks about what started as taking photographers to entice family from New Jersey to visit Maine has turned into nine books, his favorite hidden gems in Maine and New Hampshire and his playful "feud" with Patrick Dempsey.

Episode 109

Legacy and Lumber with Clara Collins

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter talks with Clara Collins, Operations Manager at S.W. Collins Co. They explore the intricacies of managing a multi-generational company, the balance of tradition with innovation, and the critical role of community involvement, featuring a unique grant program that deepens local engagement They also touch on the dynamics of working within a family business, sharing insights and advice for navigating the complexities of family and business roles.

Episode 108

Empowering Youth, Inspiring Futures with Michelle Anderson

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Michelle Anderson, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Maine. They discuss Michelle’s journey, the role of volunteers and the importance of real-world learning experiences. Michelle shares the impact of Junior achievement on Maine’s youth, highlighting the organization’s commitment to education and workforce readiness.

Episode 107

Cultivating Culture & Community with Lucy Ditzel

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Lucy Ditzel, Chief People Officer at Atlantic Federal Credit Union. Together, they unpack the secrets to creating a workplace that buzzes with energy, driven by employee recognition, leadership development, and a commitment to community service.

Episode 106

Empowering the Future Generation of Leaders with Christina McAnuff

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Christina McAnuff, Executive Director of the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute. Christina shares her inspiring transition from the advertising world in New York to leading the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute. Learn about her dedication to fostering leadership, confidence, and aspirations among high school girls through innovative mentorship and educational programs.

Episode 105

A Beacon of Hope for Animals In Need with Joan McBurnie

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Joan McBurnie, Executive Director of Harvest Hills Animal Shelter. Starting as a volunteer dog walker, Joan now leads the shelter. She discusses key strategies and community support that have helped the shelter succeed. Joan shares a story about Bubba, a rescue that showcases their impact. The talk highlights the importance of animal adoption and the shelter's commitment to giving animals a second chance.

Episode 104

Bridging Communities with Jennifer Packard

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Jennifer Packard, President of PK Realty Management & Investments. They discuss the company's commitment to community, current trends in real estate management, and Jennifer's collaborative leadership style. Also, discover the intriguing concept of 'hedonism without harm' as Jennifer shares insights on balancing pleasure with responsibility.

Episode 103

From Bean to Dream: The Sweet Journey with Sarah Burns

Join Carissa Chipman as she explores Sarah Burns' transformation from dreamer to co-owner of Chocolats Passion, Portland Maine's premier French chocolate shop. Discover the secrets behind their sustainable, fair-trade creations, from inspired beginnings to the crafting of unique, unforgettable flavors. Sarah shares the highs and lows of chocolate-making, community impact, and what's next for Chocolats Passion. Every piece has a story.

Episode 102

Crafting Success: Marketing and Leadership Lessons with Ella Chandler

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Ella Chandler, the Marketing Manager at Cheese Louise, an artisan grilled cheese food truck company. They discuss Ella's progression from handling social media to her current role as Marketing Manager, explore Cheese Louise's distinctive approach that focuses on putting people and the organization first, examine how taking on more responsibilities contributed to Ella's leadership development, and highlight the importance of sustainability in the company's expansion.

Episode 101

Unlocking Leadership: A Dive into Fryeburg Academy with Joe Manning

In this podcast, Steve Cote sits down with Joe Manning, Head of School at Fryeburg Academy in Western Maine. They discuss Joe's path to leadership, the insights he's gained, and the impact of the Raiders Family spirit. Learn about Joe's mentors, his approach to challenges, and his passion for education.

Episode 100

Insights from a Six-Generation Family-Owned Business with Richard Hussey

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Richard Hussey, Vice President of Human Resources at Hussey Seating. They discuss what it truly means to be a six-generation family-owned business, how they encourage their employees to give back to their community, and how they foster leadership and growth within the company.

Episode 99

Connecting Kids with Farming with Stephanie McDonough

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Stephanie McDonough, Founder and CEO Farmer of Farm to Table Kids. They discuss how Steph had to re-launch her business after her son was diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer, her passion for connecting kids with nature, and how she has built a community around farming.

Episode 98

Finding Happiness Through Community with Nathan Golon

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Nathan Golon, cinematographer and co-founder of GoodFight Media. They discuss Nate’s love for Maine, the importance of community and relationships, and how failure can lead to the best lessons.

Episode 97

Creating a Brighter Future One Book at a Time With Chuck Wilcoxen and Hilary Harper-Wilcoxen

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Chuck Wilcoxen, Founder & Mission Director of Team Long Run, and Hilary Harper-Wilcoxen, Executive Director of Team Long Run. They discuss why Team Long Run was founded, the importance of creating early readers and their hopes and dreams for child literacy.

Episode 96

The Evolution of Grocery Stores with Hillary Dacko-Roy

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Hillary Dacko-Roy, Director of Retail Operations at Hannaford. They talk about diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, meeting the needs of both consumers and employees and what leadership means to her.

Episode 95

Workforce Accountability with Jessica Estes

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Jessica Estes, President of The Boulos Company. They discuss the competition in commercial real estate, learning what drives your employees and cultivating your network.

Episode 94

Creating Marketing Solutions with Paula Mahony

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Paula Mahony, President and Chief Strategist of Words@Work, Inc. They discuss Paula’s journey to the marketing industry, her strategies for public speaking and how she is inspired by her co-workers, her children and her new grandbaby.

Episode 93

Following a Passion for Baking with Nancy Ames

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Nancy Ames, owner of Sullivan House Bakery in Gorham, Maine. They discuss Nancy’s career path from insurance to baking, the meaning behind “Sullivan House” and how she has used her passion to create a community hub.

Episode 92

Raising the Roof on Communication with Peter Horch

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Peter Horch, President and CEO of Horch Roofing. They discuss how strong communication sets Horch Roofing apart from its competitors, how they use their core values to set employee expectations and why they are passionate about the next generation of trade careers.

Episode 91

Fostering a Culture of Leadership with Erin Plummer

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Erin Plummer, Chief Marketing Officer at Hancock Lumber. They discuss the strong values embedded in Hancock Lumber, the challenges the lumber industry is facing in Maine, and the role culture and leadership plays in the company.

Episode 90

Celebrating Your Important Life Moments with Lilly Mullen

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Lilly Mullen, President of Springer’s Jewelers. They discuss how Springer’s inspires and nurtures leaders, their human sustainability initiative and how they’ve built the company around their employees’ wants and needs.

Episode 89

Small Improvements Add Up with Jenn Lever

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Jenn Lever, President of Baxter Brewing. They discuss how the brewery scene has exploded in Maine, the importance of open communication in the workplace and how to empower your employees to be creative.

Episode 88

Helping Clients Thrive Online with Becky McKinnell

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Becky McKinnell, Founder and CEO of iBec Creative and Wildwood Oyster Co. They discuss Becky’s road to entrepreneurship, the culture at iBec that has made them a three-time Best Places to Work in Maine recipient, and how she used her background in e-commerce to create a successful handbag line.

Episode 87

Doing Things Differently with Deirdre Wadsworth

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Deirdre Wadsworth, President of Hardypond Construction. They discuss what it’s like being a female in a male dominant industry, the importance of picking your team of trusted advisors and how Hardypond supports causes that matter most to both the company and their employees.

Episode 86

The Compounding Effect of Financial Wellness with Nate Moody

In this 86th episode, Ethan Johnson interviews Nate Moody, Retirement Plan Advisor and Director of Business Development & Marketing at Lebel & Harriman Retirement Advisors in Falmouth, Maine. They discuss Nate’s passion for financial literacy, the benefit of working with local advisors and the impact you can make when you are passionate about a cause.

Episode 85

Small Town Roots with Bill Chalmers

In this very special episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews her father, Bill Chalmers, 3rd generation owner of Chalmers Insurance. They discuss Chalmers’ multi-generational rich heritage in giving back to local communities, what he loved most about working for the family business, and how to turn problems into opportunities.

Episode 84

Know Your Seafood with Luke Holden

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Luke Holden, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Luke’s Lobster, a family-owned Maine seafood business. They discuss how the pandemic strengthened their business, how to create community wherever you go, and what it means to build a sustainable seafood organization.

Episode 83

Building Relationships with Larry Shaw

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Larry Shaw, recently retired CEO of MMG Insurance. They discuss Larry’s career journey, advice that inspired him along the way, and what he plans to do in retirement.

Episode 82

A Balance of Beauty and Wellness with Marissa Elliott

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Marissa Elliott, Owner of Lucinda's Day Spa and Hair Studio in Cumberland, Maine. They discuss Marissa's journey to spa ownership, her leadership style, and how the spa gives back to its local community.

Episode 81

Creating Leaders with Mara Moorhead

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Mara Moorhead, CEO of Girl Scouts of Maine (GSME). They discuss how Mara’s values underpin her non-linear career path, why Girl Scouts is a premiere leadership development program, and how Girl Scouts nationwide positively impact communities.

Episode 80

Learning From a Local with Jaimie Crawford

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Jaimie Crawford, a freelance marketing manager and owner of Pressed, and the PR representative for the Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce in North Conway, New Hampshire. They discuss Jaimie’s love of the Mount Washington Valley area; the importance of mentors and guides in both business and travel; and what one teacher said that changed her life.

Episode 79

The Business of Adventure with Hannah Wolken

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Hannah Wolken, owner of the retail store Nomads in Portland, Maine. Hannah is a recovering corporate girl turned entrepreneur, who is passionate about travel, adventure and small business. They discuss how Covid made people want to wear more comfortable clothing; why she believes perceived weaknesses might actually be strengths; and how she makes the most of Maine winters with the right gear.

Episode 78

More That Just a Pretty Basket with Brittany Cyr

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter and her daughter, Sofia Cutter, interview Brittany Cyr, owner of East Coast Organizer. Brittany is a professional organizer who helps families stay organized, allowing more time for what really matters. Dottie, Sofia and Brittany discuss how she started her business through a Facebook post; how she uses the “Three Second Rule;” her tips for keeping playrooms in order, and much more!

Episode 77

Making Meaningful Decisions with Craig Freshley

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Craig Freshley, founder and owner of Good Group Decisions. Craig is a professional meeting facilitator, speaker, trainer, and author of "Together We Decide." Steve and Craig discuss the importance of defining meeting objectives; why disagreements and conflicts can result in breakthroughs; and how Craig weaves his work as a facilitator into his neighborhood and community.

Episode 76

From Salsa to Radio with Kelly Towle

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Kelly Towle, co-owner of Plucked Fresh Salsa and co-host of The Blake Show with Kelly & Todd. They discuss how Plucked Fresh Salsa came to fruition; how persistency and determination helped her business grow; and how she went from salsa girl to morning radio personality.

Episode 75

Building Your Personal Brand with Debra Boggs

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Debra Boggs, Co-Founder of D&S Professional Coaching. They discuss tips for using LinkedIn for networking; how you can grow in your current role; and managing tasks as an entrepreneur.

Episode 74

Grain to Glass with Christopher Burk

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Christopher Burk, owner of Cathedral Ledge Distillery in North Conway, NH. They discuss Chris’s transition from finance to the craft spirit industry; the labor of love that goes into production; and the development of the Jazz Residency at Fryeburg Academy.

Episode 73

Building Community Through Food with Cherie Scott

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter, interviews Cherie Scott, owner of Mumbai to Maine. In this episode they discussed how Cherie’s recipes came to fruition; how community has been the foundation of her success; and her advice for entrepreneurs.

Episode 72

The Intersection of Community and Conservation with Sarah Stanley

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Sarah Stanley, New England Program Manager at the National Forest Foundation. They discuss the impact of collaborating with community partners; details about the Treasured Landscape Project; and how being an 11th generation Mainer has shaped Sarah’s passion for her community.

Episode 71

Overcoming Adversity with Shawn Moody

In this episode, Ethan Johnson interviews Shawn Moody, owner of Moody’s Collision with over 10 locations in Maine. They discuss the challenges Shawn faced when started his business at a young age; how being an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) has influenced Moody’s success and how open book management has opened the door for continuous improvement.

Episode 70

Creating A Meaningful Life with Rebecca Fraser-Thill

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Rebecca Fraser-Thill, owner of Fraser-Thill Coaching and Consulting, LLC. They discuss the benefits of job crafting, common obstacles when finding meaning in the workplace and what it means to be a neighbor.

Episode 69

Providing Support to Family-Owned Businesses with Catherine Wygant Fossett

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Catherine Wygant Fossett, Executive Director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business (IFOB). They discuss how the places Catherine has lived and traveled have shaped who she is today; the role of women in family-owned businesses; and the many benefits of joining the IFOB.

Episode 68

Creating Hope Through Wishes with Kate Vickery

In this episode Carissa Chipman interviews Kate Vickery, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Maine. They discuss who Make-A-Wish serves and the common misconceptions; how they provide hope to the Wish Kids; and her advice on creating personal brand.

Episode 67

Selling the Maine Lifestyle with Chris Lynch

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Chris Lynch, founder and sole owner of Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty. They discuss why Chris left Wall Street for real estate; his passion for disrupting the status quo; and the brand and culture he has created at Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty.

Episode 66

Reinventing the Arcade Scene with Dave Aceto

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Dave Aceto, co-owner of Arcadia in Portland, Maine. They discuss how his vision of an arcade bar came to life, the impact of Arcadia on Portland’s nightlife, and the ways in which their community has come together in times of need.

Episode 65

Helping Children Develop Healthy Lifelong Habits with Julie Mulkern

In this episode, Jim Chalmers interviews Julie Mulkern, Executive Director of WinterKids. They discuss how WinterKids works to brings outdoor winter activities to children in Maine and New Hampshire; how schools, families and communities can get involved; and their hopes to reach children beyond northern New England.

Episode 64

The Craft of Printing with David Nemi

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews David Nemi, 3rd Generation and General Manager of Franklin Printing in Farmington, Maine. They discuss navigating the transition to the next generation; their commitment to sustainability; and how to find work-life balance in the manufacturing industry.

Episode 63

Turning Sap Into Syrup with Lyle Merrifield

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Lyle Merrifield, owner of Merrifield Farm in Gorham, Maine. They discuss how maple syrup is produced; the tradition of Maine Maple Sunday; and how climate can affect production.

Episode 62

Standing the Test of Time with Joe Corey

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Joe Corey, President of Day’s Jewelers. They discuss the company’s rich history; how they’ve created an employee-centric work environment; what they view as their responsibility to the community.

Episode 61

Showcasing the Beauty of Maine with Erin Ovalle

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Erin Ovalle, owner of Maine Life Media. In this episode they discuss how Erin found her passion in television; the importance of her community; and how she prepares herself and others for public speaking.

Episode 60

Tuning in to Your Community with Greg Frizzell

In this episode Steve Cote interviews Greg Frizzell, owner of Mt. Washington Radio Group. In this episode they discuss how Greg’s mentors have shaped his career; the impact local radio has on community; and his passion for broadcasting high school sports.

Episode 59

Creating a Community Outlet with Carrie Burkett

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Carrie Burkett, Executive Director of the North Conway Community Center. They discuss the challenges the Community Center faces; the important role that recreation plays for all ages, and Carrie’s unique passion for community building.

Episode 58

Building a Brand with Alaina Marie Harris

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Alaina Marie Harris, owner of Alaina Marie in South Portland, ME. They discuss what inspired her to make her iconic bait bag, how she constantly stays creative and organized, and the benefit of in-house production.

Episode 57

Reframing the Conversation on Food Insecurities with Kristen Miale

In this episode, Katie Piper interviews Kristen Miale, President of Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine. They discuss the biggest misconception around hunger and why we should shift our mindset from just distributing surplus food to also improving access to healthy food.

Episode 56

Labor of Love with Ben Wilcox

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Ben Wilcox, President and General Manager of Cranmore Mountain Resort. They discuss what it means to love what you do and where you live; how to balance history and tradition with modern consumer demands; and the importance of partnering with neighbors.

Episode 55

More Than Coffee and Donuts with Kim Wolak

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Kim Wolak, Chief Operating Officer of The Wolak Group, an independent franchise network that owns and operates over 95 Dunkin’ restaurants in Maine, New Hampshire and New York. They discuss how giving back has made their business successful, the correlation between transparency and happy employees, and the importance of creating a culture around health and well-being.

Episode 54

Everyday Choices Can Change the World with Michael Simchik

In this episode, Carissa Chipman joins Michael Simchik, CEO and Co-Founder of PS IT MATTERS. They discuss why PS IT MATTERS was started, how they give back to their communities through reusable shopping bags and bouquets, and Michael’s advice for young entrepreneurs.

Episode 53

Providing Support, Resilience and Healing with Anne Heros

In this episode, Carissa Chipman has a conversation with Anne Heros, Executive Director of The Center for Grieving Children and Families. They discuss The Center’s no-cost services, the work they do with schools, and how we can support grieving loved ones.

Episode 52

Great Products, Even Better People with Jeff Messer

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Jeff Messer, fourth generation owner and president of Messer Truck Equipment. They discuss building relationships over just taking orders, the importance of company culture and hiring the right people, and how Destination Occupation recruits for careers in Manufacturing, Trades and IT.

Episode 51

More Than a Tile Store with Joe Capozza III

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter talks to Joe Capozza III, third generation and Vice President of Capozza Flooring. They discuss the importance of creating opportunities for co-workers, the value of a work-life balance, and his lessons learned for future business owners.

Episode 50

Starting Over with Margo Walsh

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter talks to Margo Walsh, founder and owner of MaineWorks—a company that helps employ people in recovery and reentry. They discuss the origin of MaineWorks’ mission, the social impact of becoming a B Corp, and how MaineWorks hopes to expand their footprint in the future.

Episode 49

Protecting Our Natural Environment with Lori Jean Kinsey

In this episode, Steve Cote has a conversation with Lori Jean Kinsey, Executive Director of Tin Mountain Conservation Center in Albany, New Hampshire. They discuss exploring the natural environment with enthusiasts of all ages, collaborating with other non-profit organizations to share resources and enhance programming, and what Lori envisions for the organization in the future.

Episode 48

Turning Creativity into Opportunity with Taja Dockendorf

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Taja Dockendorf, Owner + Creative Conduit at Pulp + Wire in Portland, ME. They discuss why direct communication is especially important as women in business, creativity boosters, and why she cares deeply about improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

Episode 47

A Passion for Service with Joshua and Aaron Snell

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Joshua and Aaron Snell, owners of ServiceMaster of Carroll and Coos County. They discuss the journey of a family-owned business, the importance of personal interests outside of their careers and supporting the creation of a skate park in the Mt. Washington Valley.

Episode 46

Thoughts Become Things with Sam Patel

In this episode, Ethan Johnson interviews Sam Patel, owner of Friendly Discount Beverage and Hilltop Superette in Portland, Maine. They discuss revolutionizing the local corner store and the values of risk-taking and persistency.

Episode 45

The Power of a Story with Tom Eastman

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Tom Eastman, Conway Daily Sun Reporter and ski historian. They discuss what makes an exceptional storyteller, how North Conway is the historical birthplace of modern skiing and the power of caring for one another.

Episode 44

Empowering the Home Cook with Anne Weiss

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Anne Weiss, co-owner of SKORDO. They discuss entrepreneurship, creating a cooking community and empowering home cooks, of all experience levels, to create and enjoy good food with the ones they love.

Episode 43

Donut Give Up with Jeff Buckwalter

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Jeff Buckwalter, CEO and Co-Owner of The Holy Donut in Portland, Maine. They discuss the challenges of managing demand, creating a culture that cultivates growth and using the power of flour to give back to their communities.

Episode 42

Giving Back Smiles with Dr. Kelsey Hill

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Dr. Kelsey Hill of Morgan-Hill Dental Care in Gorham, Maine. They discuss her path to becoming a dentist, how technology has improved the patient experience and how she gained trust in the industry.

Episode 41

Raising the Bar for Adult Care with Karen Albert

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Karen Albert, Director of Community Relations at MWV Adult Day Center. They discuss fulfilling the region’s critical adult service needs, how they collaborate with local non-profit organizations, and what lessons they learned in the pandemic.

Episode 40

Serving Community Responsibly with John Eastman

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews John Eastman, Director of Conway (NH) Parks & Recreation Department. They discuss the importance of leading with a servant’s mindset, ongoing staff training and a strong volunteer board.

Episode 39

A Community That Moves Together with Meghan Courchesne

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Meghan Courchesne, Marketing Manager and Master Spin Instructor at Rêve Cycling in Portland, Maine. They discuss taking advantage of opportunity, the hustle of a small business and how to start a fitness routine.

Episode 38

How To Build a Stand-Out Brand With Mallika Malhotra

In this episode, Nina Cutter interviews Mallika Malhotra, owner of MikiFoto + Co. They discuss how she helps female entrepreneurs tell their stories, the questions business owners should ask themselves and how she shares her expertise with her community.

Episode 37

Live and Work in Maine with Katie Shorey

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Katie Shorey, Director of Engagement of Live + Work in Maine and proud boomerang. They discuss how to best attract talent to Maine, the diverse workforce opportunities in the state and her path to entrepreneurship.

Episode 36

How To Be an Authentic Leader with Erin Clymer Lessard

In this episode, Katie Piper interviews Erin Clymer Lessard, author, speaker, consultant, coach and CEO of Lessard Consulting. They discuss how to normalize conflict in the workplace, the benefits of a growth mindset and what makes a great leader.

Episode 35

Finding Your Place in the Family Business with Faustine Reny

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Faustine Reny, 3rd generation owner and Operations Manager at Renys. They discuss how the pandemic has changed how people shop, why giving back matters and why it’s important to hire people smarter than you.

Episode 34

Are Books “Pandemic Busters”? with Laura Cummings

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Laura Cummings, owner of White Birch Books in North Conway, NH. They discuss the power of books in building relationships, the thrill of discovering a new book or author and supporting local businesses.

Episode 33

Hope and Joy for Children with Life-Threatening Illnesses and Their Families with Michael Katz

In this episode, Jim Chalmers interviews Michael Katz, Executive Director of Camp Sunshine on Sebago Lake in Casco, Maine. They discuss the evolution of Camp Sunshine, how it provides a normalizing space for families and campers and how the pandemic has created new fundraising opportunities.

Episode 32

Turning Your Career Into Your Passion with Chelsea Locke Miller

In this episode, Carissa Chipman interviews Chelsea Locke Miller, owner of The Locke Group of Townsend Real Estate in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. They discuss how Chelsea has built a successful real estate brand, how the pandemic has impacted home buying and the importance of work-life balance.

Episode 31

Financial Freedom and Giving Back with Ryan Wallace

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Ryan Wallace, entrepreneur, real estate agent and police sergeant in Conway, New Hampshire. They discuss how Ryan has created passive income through innovative vending machines, as well as his commitment to his community, which includes running for Conway school board and supporting the Child Advocacy Center of Carroll County.

Episode 30

Minor League, Major Passion with Geoff Iacuessa

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Geoff Iacuessa, President and General Manager of the Portland Sea Dogs. Steve and Geoff discuss the evolution of minor league baseball in Portland, how they engage Sea Dogs fans in creative ways and how a great office culture can help an organization thrive.

Episode 30

A Voice For The Outdoors with Tyler Ray

In this episode, Jim Chalmers interviews Tyler Ray, founder of Granite Outdoor Alliance. Jim and Tyler discuss work-life integration, the benefit of remote work and how the pandemic has pushed us all to explore our own backyard.

Episode 28

Family, Farming and Always Striving to Be Better: Michele Dutton

In this episode, Crystal Deane interviews Michele Dutton, third generation owner of Sherman Farm in East Conway, New Hampshire. Michele and Crystal explore the intersection of family and business, her belief in instilling a strong work ethic in our youth, and how forward thinking opens up unique opportunities.

Episode 27

Passion On and Off the Court with Keegan Hyland

In this episode, Ethan Johnson interviews Keegan Hyland, Financial Advisor and former Maine basketball player. They discuss how healthy habits lead to success, the importance of mentoring youth in the community, and the impact of giving your all.

Episode 26

Healing The Souls of Our Youth with Kelly Taxter

In this episode, Katie Piper interviews Kelly Taxter, founder of Trust Your Gut, Inc. They discuss the importance of modeling a positive body image, the impacts of isolation and how Kelly brings wellness into her community.

Episode 25

From Sports Journalist to Insurance CEO with Michael Bourque

In this episode, Jim Chalmers interviews Michael Bourque, President and CEO of MEMIC. They discuss how MEMIC created a workplace safety culture in Maine and how Michael’s community involvement led to leadership opportunities.

Episode 24

Taking Initiative and Creating Opportunity with Jonathan Rivers

In this episode, Steve Cote, President of Chalmers Insurance Group, interviews Jonathan Rivers, owner of Indian Mound Golf Course. They discuss how the pandemic has created new opportunities for recreational activities, the importance of being continuously innovative, and how he supports fellow golf course owners.

Episode 23

Getting Students Hooked On Learning with Heather Whitaker

In this episode, Carissa Chipman from Chalmers Insurance Group interviews Heather Whitaker, an alternative education teacher at Gorham Middle School and Maine’s 2020 Teacher of the Year. They discuss different learning paths, how she motivates her students, and how the pandemic has led Heather to become even more innovative in her teaching.

Episode 22

Bringing the Community “Back” Together with Dr. Rob Lavoie

In this episode, Ethan Johnson, Account Executive at Chalmers Insurance Group, and Dr. Rob Lavoie, owner of the Chiropractic Clinic of Gorham, talk about Dr. Rob's journey to becoming a chiropractor, the challenges of having a client facing business during a pandemic, and the void Dr. Rob filled in the Gorham community.

Episode 21

Building a Resilient Business with Pat Weigel

In this episode recorded in early January 2021, Dottie Chalmers Cutter, 4th generation owner of Chalmers Insurance Group and Pat Weigel, CEO of Norway Savings Bank, talk about Norway Savings Bank’s resiliency amid the pandemic, how the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program led to new opportunities, Pat’s plan to retire at the end of 2021 and her advice for young professionals.