Shows
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #85 - Inside The Salem Witch Museum: Education, Myths, And A Modern RefreshStep into the Salem Witch Museum with Rachel Chris-Doane, its director of education, and explore an immersive audiovisual journey through the 1692 witch trials, complemented by a docent-led exhibit on European witch hunts and the evolving image of the witch. Rachel dispels the myth that the museum is stuck in 1972, highlighting its 2020 exhibit renovation, growing artifact collection, and a planned 2027 theater upgrade, all designed to separate fact from fiction and underscore the trials’ modern relevance to truth, fear, and justice.Rachel shares her unexpected path to museum education after a denied Fulbright application, revealing how career pivots can fu...
2025-10-3005 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #84 - Resilience Meets Chinoiserie: Crafting Beauty, Beating Odds, Loving HomeIf you’ve ever walked into a home store and thought, “Beautiful, but not for my budget,” meet Susan Bott—the NYC-actor-turned-designer behind Room Tonic in Marblehead—who proves that great design can be both distinctive and affordable. From staging in New York to launching her own shop, Susan shares how craft, courage, and community built a brand with a clear point of view and accessible pricing. Her approach to high–low design teaches where to invest for impact and where to save without sacrificing style. Even when COVID hit just five months after opening, she pivoted with grit—turning Instag...
2025-10-2410 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #83 - Building Mr. Petisco: A Family’s Brazilian Dream In MassachusettsA small family shop with a big heart, Mr. Petisco was born at a kitchen table during the pandemic and grew into a thriving Peabody storefront bringing the Taste of Brazil to Main Street. Lais Lima shares how a father’s recipes, a mother’s financial savvy, and a daughter’s drive turned risk into resilience and culture into community. Every bite reflects care—potatoes peeled in-house, dough made from scratch, and food cooked fresh to order with no additives, just warmth, grit, and flavor. Even a naming mix-up that briefly confused locals became an opportunity to rebrand and strength...
2025-10-2308 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #82 The Gospel is Free - No Halos Required: Pastor Adams Says Come As You Are to East Baptist ChurchWhat happens when a Welsh pastor follows love across the ocean and lands in Lynn, Massachusetts? Pastor Kevin Adams of East Baptist Church shares his remarkable 21-year journey in ministry and the wisdom he’s gained along the way. With refreshing candor and humor, he dismantles the myth that religious leaders are somehow less human than everyone else. “They expect me to be a sort of angel with wings,” he laughs, but instead he offers authenticity—leading a congregation of “broken angels trying to fly in the right direction, though they’ve got broken wings and most have lost their halos...
2025-10-1111 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #81 - Dr. Anan Copty's Microchip Tumor Zapping: Non-Invasive, Side Effect-Free Cancer TreatmentWhat happens when a physicist from Intel Corporation decides to tackle cancer treatment? Dr. Anan Copty shares his remarkable journey from corporate security to founding Synergy Medical Devices, a startup developing non-invasive technology to destroy solid tumors without harming healthy tissue. After losing several friends to cancer, he left a stable career to pursue a solution that combines nanoparticles with electromagnetic energy, showing promising animal-trial results at Ohio State University where tumors disappeared within days with no scars or cosmetic damage. The company plans to enter the veterinary market this year before moving to human clinical trials, focusing on...
2025-10-0916 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #80 - From Photographer to Digital Artist: Bobbie Bush's 30-Year JourneyEvery challenge presents an opportunity for reinvention—a truth Bobbie Bush embodies as she celebrates 30 years of her portrait business. What began in darkrooms and evolved through decades of traditional photography has transformed into a unique artistic practice that blends digital technology with fine art. When smartphones reshaped photography and the pandemic halted in-person sessions, Bobbie didn’t just adapt—she flourished, inviting clients to share their favorite images and transforming them into one-of-a-kind digital paintings that capture both likeness and essence.Far from a simple “click of a button,” Bobbie’s process involves thoughtful consultation, artistic interpretati...
2025-10-0808 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #79 - The Art of Personal History: A Conversation with Francie KingFrancie King, founder of History Keep, is dedicated to preserving personal histories that might otherwise be lost forever. With a background in journalism, Francie helps individuals articulate the stories they want future generations to remember. Through intimate, professional interviews, she creates powerful legacies, allowing clients to share stories they've never told—even to their closest family members. For Francie, the process is about much more than recording facts; it’s about building trust and allowing people to reflect on their lives in meaningful ways.Francie also dispels common misconceptions about personal history work, emphasizing that a true life...
2025-10-0813 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #78 - Cannabis as Medicine: Dr. Ryan Zaklin on the Endocannabinoid SystemDr. Ryan Zaklin, founder of ECS Wellness in Salem, Massachusetts, is shedding light on the body’s endocannabinoid system, a natural regulator most people are unaware of. By explaining how our bodies produce their own cannabinoids to maintain balance, he offers a compelling alternative to relying solely on prescription medications. Dr. Zaklin, part of the Mass General Brigham network, blends conventional medicine with evidence-based cannabis therapeutics, debunking common myths along the way. His approach emphasizes that you don’t need to get high to benefit from cannabis, and in some cases, treatments may even be covered by insurance.Dr...
2025-09-2909 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #77 - Barrie Atkin: How One Consultant Transforms Businesses and NonprofitsBarrie Atkin, founder of Atkin Associates, is revolutionizing marketing strategy and fundraising consultancy with a hands-on, accessible approach. Having transitioned from corporate roles at TV Guide and Rodale to an independent consultant, Barrie breaks the traditional consultant mold by offering practical, affordable services for organizations of all sizes. Her philosophy of making her expertise financially accessible extends to writing grant applications to help clients secure funding for her services, setting her apart in an industry often criticized for high fees and theoretical strategies.What makes Barrie’s story particularly inspiring is how personal tragedy transformed into a pr...
2025-09-2906 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #76 - Remodeling with Heart: When Two Friends Transform Houses and LivesBen O'Sullivan Pierce, co-owner of Fresh Start Contracting Corporation, has spent nearly two decades reshaping what homeowners expect from the renovation experience. Alongside his business partner, Nick Stamos, Ben has helped grow Fresh Start from a modest operation into one of Massachusetts’ premier custom building firms. In an industry often clouded by stereotypes of unreliability and poor communication, Ben offers a refreshing, client-first approach rooted in professionalism, transparency, and trust. He shares practical advice for navigating renovations—like understanding the value behind pricing, doing thorough research, and choosing contractors who communicate clearly—making the process smoother and even enjoyable.F...
2025-05-2910 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #75 - CDG Realty: Why the One-Stop Real Estate Shop Changes EverythingWhat happens when two passionate educators trade the classroom for real estate? Danielle and Chris Gianatassio, the duo behind CDG Realty Group, took that leap and never looked back. After years of part-time real estate experience, they launched their own full-service brokerage in 2022, leaving behind the security of teaching careers to raise their young family and pursue entrepreneurship. Their journey—marked by fear, courage, and ultimately fulfillment—is a testament to the power of following your passion, even when the path is uncertain.CDG Realty Group stands out by offering more than just traditional buying and selling. With...
2025-05-2612 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #74 - Architectural Innovation Meets Environmental ResponsibilityMeet Nicholas Paolucci, founder of Mass Architect, a forward-thinking firm revolutionizing residential design in Massachusetts with speed, affordability, and sustainability at its core. From his education at Auburn University to launching his own firm in 2016, Nicholas has carved out a unique space in the industry as a solo practitioner focused on efficient, personalized service. Specializing in home additions, renovations, and new construction, Mass Architect brings a level of care and agility often missing from larger firms. Nicholas shares how launching his business during a deeply personal time—proposing to his wife and facing his father's illness—helped shape the resi...
2025-05-2106 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #73 - From Marine to Wellness Guru: Mark Anderson Reveals why Mindfulness and Mental Resilience are Just as Important as Physical FitnessMark Anderson, owner of MWA Health and Fitness, redefines wellness beyond the gym, blending physical training with nutrition, sleep optimization, and mental health. His journey from Marine to holistic wellness advocate fuels his mission to debunk fitness myths, such as the misconception that calorie counting alone guarantees results or that weight training makes women "bulky." His studio embraces a personalized, whole-body approach, emphasizing that exercise alone isn't enough without proper recovery, nutrition, and mindfulness.Beyond fitness, Mark’s insights into mental resilience and mindfulness offer practical strategies for improving overall well-being. His focus extends beyond traditional training me...
2025-05-0823 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #72 - Beyond the Bottle with Unpacked Living: Reimagining Our Relationship with Everyday ProductsSabrina Auclair founded Unpacked Living in 2019 to combat the overwhelming waste generated by American consumer culture. Her zero-waste store challenges misconceptions about sustainable living, proving that eco-friendly products can be affordable and accessible. Specializing in “naked products” and refillable options, Unpacked Living serves Massachusetts’ North Shore through a physical location and reaches customers nationwide via an online shop. Auclair’s approach eliminates wasteful packaging and makes conscious shopping effortless, emphasizing small changes that lead to a significant environmental impact.Beyond selling sustainable products, Unpacked Living stands out by meticulously vetting each item, ensuring ethical sourcing and genuine eco-frie...
2025-05-0408 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #71 - From iPhone to I Do's: The Journey of Chris Arson PhotographyChris Arson unveils the artistry and effort behind wedding photography, proving it's far more than just clicking a button. From shooting with an iPhone to building a full-time career on both coasts, his 12-year journey highlights the extensive planning and coordination that ensure seamless wedding days. Through candid insights, he dispels pricing misconceptions and emphasizes that successful photography involves intricate logistics, not just beautiful images.What sets Chris apart is his highly personal approach. Unlike large firms that assign photographers, Chris works directly with couples, offering coffee meetings to align visions and accommodate unique requests. His resilience...
2025-05-0405 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #70 - Every Purchase Makes a Difference: Breaking Up with Amazon and The Preppy Mess StoryCarrie Shea founded The Preppy Mess with a simple yet powerful idea—your everyday purchases can drive meaningful change. During COVID-19, she realized that navigating a busy life as a mother of two didn’t mean sacrificing ethical consumerism. Her Instagram-based shop curates sustainable alternatives to toxic household products, making conscious shopping both accessible and realistic. Acknowledging the convenience of major retailers like Amazon, Carrie encourages small steps toward sustainability, celebrating progress over perfection.Her mission is deeply personal. When her first daughter survived a life-threatening condition against all odds, Carrie's priorities shifted, shaping both her parenting and...
2025-05-0312 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #69 - Guardians of the Green: Trees talk to each other, and Josh Fritz listens to their stories.Master arborist Josh Fritz has spent 28 years uncovering the hidden wonders of tree preservation, from the underground fungal networks that allow trees to communicate to the historical significance of Boston’s oldest trees. His journey into arboriculture was inspired by his great-uncle, a tree surgeon who encouraged him to pursue work that was both meaningful and enjoyable. Though a water skiing accident prevented Fritz from climbing, it led him to a leadership role at Hartney Greymont Davey Tree Expert Company, where he now spearheads preservation efforts as a dedicated "tree doctor."Beyond science, Fritz understands the deep em...
2025-05-0312 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP # 68 - Beyond Thank You For Your Service: Rob Arndt's Mission with Buffer Springs is Eradicating Veteran UnderemploymentRob Arndt turned hardship into purpose, shaping a mission that empowers veterans beyond their military service. After 14 years in the Marine Corps, he recognized the widespread underemployment of veterans—61% stuck in roles that fail to harness their skills. As the founder and CEO of Buffer Springs, Rob addresses the disconnect between military experience and civilian careers, dispelling misconceptions about service members' expertise. He highlights that only a fraction serve in direct combat roles, while most gain valuable skills in logistics, technology, and human resources. His work not only supports veterans but also helps businesses tap into an untapped reservoir of...
2025-05-0317 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #66 - From Math Teacher to Home Seller: Nancy Hughes Shares Her Journey at Jack Conway RealtyNancy Hughes combines her background as a math teacher with her passion for real estate to bring a unique perspective to property transactions on Massachusetts' North Shore. As part of Jack Conway Realty, she leverages her community engagement experiences, like coordinating volunteer efforts for Swampscott's Kids Cove playground, to offer a client-centered approach. Nancy emphasizes education and guidance in real estate, highlighting the importance of local expertise to navigate the complexities of buying and selling homes.Her collaborative spirit shines as she dispels the myth of cutthroat realtor competition, fostering smoother transactions through professional cooperation. Nancy provides...
2025-05-0306 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #67 - Metropolitan Cabinets & Countertops: Three Generations of Quality ManufacturingPeter Laufer shares the 40-year history of Metropolitan Cabinets and Countertops, a third-generation family business with multiple showrooms across greater Boston. As manufacturers rather than dealers, they control quality, pricing, and timelines directly while working closely with contractors, architects, designers, and homeowners.• Founded over 40 years ago by Stuart and Mike Elfland when they saw an opportunity after another cabinet company closed• Specializes in manufacturing custom cabinets and countertops rather than reselling other products• Maintains five showrooms throughout greater Boston, including a North Shore location in Wakefield• Serves residential kitchens, apartment renovations, and multifamily construction projects...
2025-04-1804 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #65 - Matt Kidd: The Endless Energy AdvantageModern heat pumps are transforming home heating and cooling in New England, despite lingering myths about their effectiveness. Matt Kidd, owner of Endless Energy, refutes these misconceptions while showcasing his company's evolution from a solar energy provider to a full-service home energy specialist. With a dedicated team of 80 professionals covering heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical work, and MassSave energy assessments, Endless Energy provides Massachusetts homeowners with a streamlined solution for energy upgrades.Matt’s own experience with MassSave insulation upgrades exemplifies the program's effectiveness, turning his 15-year-old home into a model of warmth during extreme cold. Endless Energy's mi...
2025-04-1815 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #64 - Andrea Bustolin is Cultivating Ecological Gardens: The Speakeasy Garden StoryEver wonder what happens when traditional garden design meets ecological consciousness? Andrea Bustolin of Speakeasy Garden merges beauty, sustainability, and purpose through her innovative landscaping approach. What began with a shovel, an old truck, and word-of-mouth referrals has grown into a full ecological design firm. From English cottage gardens to food forests, Andrea reimagines familiar styles using medicinals, edibles, and native plants—all with an eye toward minimizing maintenance and maximizing environmental impact.What sets Andrea apart is a rich background in fine arts, horticultural science, and sustainable agriculture, along with a life-changing journey—both literal and meta...
2025-04-1812 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #63 - Behind the Vents: A Family Business Bringing Honest HVAC ServiceStephen Chambers turned an unexpected assignment to refrigeration school during his biomedical equipment career into a lifelong passion for HVAC services. In 1991, he founded Chambers Heating and AC Service, a family-owned company embodying strong values and teamwork alongside his two brothers. Serving Massachusetts' North Shore, Chambers provides honest heating, cooling, and hot water solutions rooted in integrity and customer care.Chambers Heating stands out for its ethical practices, such as repairing systems that others claimed needed replacement. This dedication fosters customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals, rejecting exploitation seen in some companies during extreme weather. With fair pricing...
2025-04-1207 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #62 - Trust Matters: Inside the Better Business Bureau with Paula FlemingWho holds businesses accountable for their promises? Paula Fleming, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of the Better Business Bureau, sheds light on the BBB’s role in building trust and transparency in today’s marketplace. Contrary to popular belief, the BBB isn’t a government agency but a nonprofit supported by its accredited members. Fleming outlines the rigorous standards businesses must meet for accreditation—rejecting up to 15% of applicants monthly—and explains how the BBB’s customer review verification process helps distinguish it from other platforms.Beyond the boardroom, Fleming’s own journey—marked by professional setbacks, weekend swim les...
2025-04-1207 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #61 - Paul Manley: Cop-Turned-Author Reveals What's Really Causing Workplace ViolenceWhat happens when a 35-year law enforcement veteran turns his attention to preventing workplace violence before it starts? Meet Paul Manley, retired police lieutenant and owner of Risk Mitigation Technologies LLC, who is redefining how organizations think about safety. Drawing from decades of experience, Paul goes beyond the typical reliance on cameras and guards to focus on the root causes of workplace violence—examining behaviors, warning signs, and organizational dynamics that contribute to unsafe environments. His approach emphasizes prevention through education, de-escalation strategies, and proactive planning, and it's applicable across all industries, from nonprofits and schools to retail and en...
2025-04-1008 min
Good Neighbor Podcast: North ShoreEP #12 - Bridging Cultures with Steve Warren and Chinese PopEver wondered how a passion for radio could lead to the creation of a unique cross-cultural platform? Join us as Steve Warren, the visionary behind China America Radio Station, shares his fascinating journey. From early influences like his father and his high school radio days to founding MOR Media in 1987, Steve's story is one of innovation and cultural connection. His insights from Sirius XM Satellite Radio unveiled a market gap for Chinese pop music, leading to the launch of China America Radio in 2007. Broadcasting 24/7, this station brings vibrant Chinese pop music to New York and beyond, driven by Steve's...
2025-04-0516 min