Boston's Best - SoundSage

A year ago, I shared my entrepreneurial journey.

From working 30+ hours at Ace Hardware in High School and buying my own car at the age of 16, selling one of my businesses and buying my first home at the age of 23, and within the last several years of helping lead others in their journey to financial freedom, I’ve learned a lot of things along the way about how to create a strong business strategy and what it takes to build resilience and a solid mindset to keep me going.

With these lessons in mind, I’ve been slowly chipping away at learning the ropes of launching a product, from concept and design to executing a physical product with opportunities to grow in the future. Now, I’m excited to share my new business venture, iPupPee.

iPupPee is the ultimate pet product that gives your dog a voice and lets them tell you when they need to go out. Let your dog text you with the easy-to-use paw-shaped button and 24/7 live video feed, so you never miss a moment or a bathroom break again!

In honor of my boy, Champ, and the Kickstarter launch of iPupPee, Jonathan Krieger, former guest (Ep. 011) and Founder and Emperor of BoardGame Empire, takes the lead as Podcast Host. During our conversation, Jonathan interviewed me about how the original idea for iPupPee got started, how I’m keeping Champ’s spirit alive, the step-by-step process of launching a new product with 52Launch, and how to market your new business idea strategically.

Topics Discussed:

Launching a product - from concept to reality
Learning curves behind patents and product development
The delicate process behind product inventory
Balancing time management while operating multiple businesses (and family)
How to get the best ROI vs. Organic Growth in a new industry
What being a father has taught me about business and priorities

iPupPee PRESALE: https://presale.ipuppee.com/

Additional Resources:

Connect with Jonathan Krieger

Website:https://www.playboardgameempire.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-krieger-151a1a3b/

Connect with 52Launch

Call: 508-405-2605
Email: info@52launch.com

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout Massachusetts.

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Throughout the last two years of Boston's Best, I have interviewed over ninety-nine guests to find what sets their businesses apart from their competition. I've learned how they have risen above the inevitable challenges, what it takes to be an exceptional leader in any given industry, and what success means to them.

Now, in honor of Boston's Best 100th episode, I'm switching things up. To celebrate this milestone, Matt Ramey, Owner of Concept Properties and former guest (Ep. 055), takes the lead as Podcast Host as he interviews me about my entrepreneurial journey as a Financial Planner, Investment Educator, and Wealth Management Author.

Growing up in Stoughton, MA, I learned what it was like to have a hardworking mindset and an entrepreneurial spirit. From working 30+ hours at Ace Hardware in High School and buying my own car at the age of 16 to selling one of my businesses and buying my first home at the age of 23, I now help lead others in their journey to financial freedom.

As Matt and I discuss the importance of understanding your finances, I share why taking chances at a young age can be beneficial to building your future. I also share the hardest lessons I learned starting my financial business and why you should never wait until it's too late to focus on your financial future.

Topics Discussed:

Why building trust with your clients takes time
Understanding the long-term compound effect in interest and gains
The importance of mentorship in any industry
How taking a gap year can help guide you along following your passions
Recognizing that goal-setting and levels of success change over time

Connect with Mark Condon, CPFA:

Website: https://www.markcondon-cfg.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkCondonCFG
Facebook (Personal):https://www.facebook.com/markuspatrick13
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markuspatrick13/
LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcondoncfg/ * Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkCondonCFG * Twitter (Personal): https://twitter.com/MarkCondon13 * YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOf5ZLs3NDyYLuwfFomdB-g/videos

Additional Resources:

Ask Mark Condon (4 Book Series):https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093R1XBSF?ref_=dbs_p_mng_rwt_ser_shvlr&storeType=ebooks
Small Business Trendsetters:https://smallbusinesstrendsetters.com/financial-planner-mark-condon-reveals-methods-to-maximize-retirement-income/

Contact Mark Condon, CPFA:

Address: Framingham, MA
Call: 781-603-3202
Email: MarkCondon@FinancialGuide.com

Connect with Boston's Best:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

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Are you looking to start your own podcast or offload the heavy burden of editing and producing your show? Have a business but don't know how to create brand awareness for your local community? Or are you looking to amp up your social media game and spread your message online? Then you've come to the right place.

This week, I am joined by Cody & Elaine Johnston, Owners of Reckless Media. Reckless Media is a multi-media production company located in central Arkansas that helps purpose-driven leaders serve their local community through digital media. Cody and Elaine also happen to be the producers behind Boston's Best. Whether it's editing audio, writing show notes, or creating material to share across social media, Cody and Elaine have helped me launch Boston's Best. Now, two years later, I'm interviewing them to see how they started Reckless Media, their advice to someone starting a new business, and what they'd tell their 18-year-old selves.

During our conversation, Cody shares his lifelong passion for music and how it inspired him to get into audio production. Elaine also shares how blogging in high school led her to help a friend write show notes for their podcast years ago and how it jumpstarted their production company. They also share how they utilize their talents to help other podcasters, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders better serve their communities.

Topics Discussed:

Utilizing your gifts to chase your passions
The difference between high-quality over quantity content
Speaking the language to represent clients and their communities
The misconceptions behind a strong podcasting strategy
Why consistency is critical in creating a solid web presence
Learning to take risks and shift your glass ceiling to your starting foundation

Connect with Reckless Media:

Website: https://recklessmedia.therecklesspursuit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/recklessmediaco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_recklessmedia/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@recklessmedia

Additional Resources:

Connect with Cody: https://links.brailleatlas.com
Connect with Elaine: https://drum.io/elainejohnston

Contact Reckless Media:

Email: cody@recklessmedia.co & elaine@recklessmedia.co

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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If you're looking for an inviting atmosphere full of community, great beer, and a place you can bring your dog, then this episode is for you.

This week, I am joined by Jay Southwood, Founder, and President of Break Rock Brewing. Break Rock Brewing is the ONLY current brewery to hit the city of Quincy and prides itself on being a place you can relax after putting in long hours of hard work.

During our conversation, Jay shares the process behind starting Break Rock Brewing and the unique challenges faced during COVID-19 that impacted the trajectory of opening for business.

Jay also shares how Break Rock Brewing honors Quincy's rich history and looks toward an expansive and opportunistic future. We also discuss the importance of hiring staff that connects with the customer and provides top-tier customer service that brings the community wanting to come back time and time again.

Topics Discussed:

Why your team’s customer service should be a top-tier priority
How Covid-19 impacted the trajectory of opening for business
Combining history and present-day behind the name break rock
The process behind brewery distribution
Bridging the gap between honoring the past and looking forward

Connect with Break Rock Brewing:

Website: https://www.breakrockbrewing.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BreakRockBrewing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakrockbrewing/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaysouthwood/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BreakRockBrew

Additional Resources:

Mainvest: https://mainvest.com/businesses/breakrock-brewing

Contact Break Rock Brewing:

Address: 534 Victory Rd, Quincy, MA 02171
Call: 617-481-0019
Email: Jay@BreakRockBrewing.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am joined by Erin Bose, the Executive Director and Independent Consultant of Scout and Cellar. Starting in 2017, Scout and Cellar made over $20 million in sales in their first year. What differentiates Scout and Cellar from competitors? Their Clean-Crafted Commitment focuses on creating and delivering the highest-quality, most delicious wine possible, by their own non-negotiable benchmarks for sustainable production and pesticide use.

During our conversation, Erin shares how she used her sales background and education to get into the wine industry. Erin also shares how she trained herself in wine tasting and developed her pallet for recognizing various tasting notes. Erin also discusses the difference between organic and clean-crafted wines and why mass-produced wines often include additives and preservatives to ensure consistency of color, taste, etc.

Topics Discussed:

Utilizing open opportunities and growing your own brand awareness
What develops a high-quality glass of wine
The process behind growing grapes in vineyards
Understanding the truth behind mass-produced wines
Crafting a story behind the wine and the winemaker

Connect with Scout and Cellar:

Website: https://scoutandcellar.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scoutandcellar/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scoutandcellar/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-bose-086114150/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLatNJbkphQqr0L2sO8l7oQ

Additional Resources:

Wine Enthusiast: https://www.winemag.com/2021/09/14/scout-cellar-wine/

Contact Scout and Cellar:

Address: Foxboro, MA
Call: 617-212-9619
Email: hello@scoutandcellar.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am joined by Nadia Liu Spellman, CEO & Founder of Dumpling Daughter. First founded in 2014, Dumpling Daughter serves authentic, time-tested dumplings, buns, and noodles in three locations: Weston, Brookline, and Cambridge.

Dumpling Daughter's motto, "Making People Happy One Dumpling at a Time," rings true as they're currently working on opening their 4th location in South Boston this summer. To celebrate its 8th anniversary, Dumpling Daughter will launch its first cookbook this coming November.

During our conversation, Nadia shares what it was like growing up in the Chinese restaurant business as her parents owned the most high-end Chinese restaurant, Sally Ling's, in Boston in the 80s. Nadia also shares that her parents always encouraged her to follow her dreams. With her love for Chinese cuisine and fine dining and celebrating family through bonding over good food, Dumpling Daughter was launched.

Topics Discussed:

Expecting the unexpected as an entrepreneur
Staying authentic to your passion as well as the customer
The power of a good team behind your dream
How covid-19 changed the entire ecosystem of the restaurant business
Combining a passion for food and a focus on family

Connect with Dumpling Daughter:

Website: https://dumplingdaughter.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dumplingdaughter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dumplingdaughter/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ddaughterboston
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadia-liu-spellman-009451/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2IiGQGm9tJk7uPlinG3Tow

Additional Resources:

Boston 25 News: https://www.boston25news.com/news/health/weston-woman-opens-new-restaurant-during-pandemic-lends-helping-hand-sister-need/2IR2X3WGMZHT5MZJXFCFJTN4JI/

Contact Dumpling Daughter:

Address: 37 Center St, Weston, MA 02493, 73 Ames St, Cambridge, MA 02142, and 1309 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02446
Call: 781-216-8989
Email: info@dumplingdaughter.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am joined by Gardy Desrouleaux, the Owner and Managing Partner of Craft Food Halls. Craft Food Halls prides itself on the Attraction Formula that goes well beyond simple dining. Craft Food Halls is a place where differences fall away through intention, dedication, and innovation, and a love for good food, good drinks, and even greater conversation thrives.

During our conversation, Gardy shares the art of sous vide cooking, putting people first, and his passion for hospitality. By extending kindness to everyone he meets and injecting positivity into his ecosystem, Gardy shares that he can never retire from his true calling because there are so many people to help along the way.

Through Gardy's infectious positivity and friendliness, it is evident that Gardy encourages those around him to think better, feel better, and do better. We also discuss the importance of reprogramming and reframing your mindset, how to view challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation, and the power of mentorship.

Topics Discussed:

The importance of cultivating strong relationships
Perfecting the “art” and “craft” behind your calling
Balancing flavor profiles through the “sous vide” technique
How covid-19 created space for innovation & strategic growth

Connect with Craft Food Halls:

Website: https://www.craftfoodhalls.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cfhwaltham
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gardyde/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CFHProject
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gardy-desrouleaux-334b0946/

Additional Resources:

Restaurantji: https://www.restaurantji.com/ma/waltham/craft-food-hall-project-citypoint-/

Contact Craft Food Halls:

Address: 200 5th Ave, Waltham, MA 02451
Call: 781-790-8121
Email: Gardy@CraftFoodHalls.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am joined by Jack McNamara, Founder and CEO of Tru, a functional wellness and energy drink company. While Tru first started as an energy shot company, Tru quickly sought innovation through COVID-19 like many other small businesses.

Now, focusing on challenging human potential through nutrition with naturally-formulated products to help you feel good and perform better, Tru creates healthy wellness shots, seltzers, and tablets that taste good and are good for you.

During our conversation, Jack shares his entrepreneurial journey in the health and wellness industry, including the early challenges faced and early successes along the way. Jack also shares the importance of networking with those in your industry. Too often, people forget that asking for introductions can double your network and grow your brand, company, and relationships.

Topics Discussed:

Balancing the fine line between healthy ingredients and good-tasting products
The importance of evolving products to fit clients’ wants and desires
Surrounding yourself with business owners in your industry
Advice for business owners: “Don’t sweat the small stuff”

Connect with Tru:

Website: https://drinktru.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drinktru
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinktru/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drinktru
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmac/
YouTube: https://drinktru.com/pages/youtube

Additional Resources:

Drink Tru Blog: https://drinktru.com/blogs/news

Contact Tru:

Address: 11 Michigan Drive, Natick, MA 01760
Call: 617-833-9750
Email: info@drinktru.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

What if everything you've ever known about dietary guidelines, health, and fitness were all lies? What if health professionals and mainstream nutritionists weren't promoting the most effective healthy habits? And do nutrition labels really tell the whole story? If you've ever wanted to know the truth about the health and wellness industry, then this episode is for you.

This week, I am joined by J Gulinello, MS, CNSc, FNTP, Founder of Perpetual Health. Jay has his Masters’s Degree in Clinical Human Nutrition and is a Nutritional Therapist that focuses on “Alternative Nutrition.”

Perpetual Health was founded in 2022 and is a nature-inspired retreat center to teach people how to live optimally through natural resources. Their first retreat is scheduled for October 6th-9th in New Hampshire. For more information about the Ancestral Wellness Retreat, visit https://www.perpetualhealth.co/event-details/ to register today!

During our conversation, J unpacks the truth behind the health and nutrition industry and why it's essential to do your due diligence when creating the proper lifestyle for you. We also discuss the importance of setting the younger generation up for success with clean eating through education and starting healthy habits early on.

Topics Discussed:

Common myths and misconceptions behind nutrition and dietary guidelines
Mainstream health and nutrition vs. alternative health and nutrition
Rethinking chronic disease and advocating for healthspan vs. lifespan
Asking better questions regarding healthy eating and living habits

Connect with Perpetual Health:

Website: https://www.perpetualhealth.co
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perpetualhealthco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perpetualhealthco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-gulinello-a3661165/

Additional Resources:

Trust Your Gut Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7rh3Kzbzje3yQ6755hIFQF

Contact Perpetual Health:

Address: New York, NY
Call: 781-910-0079
Email: perpetualhealthco@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am joined by Ashley Haseotes, President and Founder of One Mission, a non-profit organization located in Westborough, MA, creating memorable experiences for pediatric cancer patients and their families.

One Mission programs make living in the hospital less lonely and stressful, bring back joy and hope in a time of fear and uncertainty, and give children and their families the support needed to get through the emotional and financial challenges pediatric cancer brings. To date, Mission raised more than 14.6 million dollars for kids fighting cancer and their families.

In this moving discussion, Ashley shares her vulnerable yet triumphant testimony of what led to starting One Mission. At age 7 and 1/2 months old, Ashley's son was diagnosed with AML Leukemia, a rare form of cancer found in middle-aged women. After discovering that she could help her son with a bone marrow transplant, Ashley quickly learned that she could not undergo the transplant since she was pregnant. After experiencing a tragic loss through a sudden miscarriage, Ashley found the blessing in disguise; She was again able to help her son through his fight with Leukemia.

Now, Ashley's little boy is almost 17-years old, cancer-free.

Topics Discussed:

Advocating for cancer patients and their families
The most sustainable way to start a successful charity
How meditation brings awareness to the present moment
Finding healing and hope after suffering tragedy and loss

Connect with Ashley Haseotes:

Website: https://www.veda-healing.org
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyhaslove/

Connect with One Mission:

Website: https://onemission.org/board-members/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/onemissioninc/?ref=ts&v=wall
IG: https://www.instagram.com/onemissionofficial/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/onemission/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/_onemission
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJYZk9HwQtulU5FgG5TQ3yQ?view_as=subscriber

Additional Resources:

CEO Magazine Today: https://www.ceotodaymagazine.com/2021/04/one-mission-to-help-families-get-through-cancer-treatment/

Contact One Mission:

Address:69 Milk St, Suite 308, Westborough, MA 01581
Call:(508) 628-9090
Email: ashley@onemission.org

Connect with Mark Condon:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts. Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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Did you know that over 90% of rum has added flavors, sweeteners, and spices? While most rum companies tend to shy away from quality ingredients to produce more, this week's guest is completely changing the game for the rum industry by getting back to its roots.

This week, I am joined by Andrew Cabot, Founder and CEO of Privateer Rum. Founded in 2010, Privateer Rum is a distillery located in Ipswich, MA, and prides itself as a True American Rum company. Establishing a new standard of rum, Privateer Rum disregards commonly accepted practices of larger rum producers, including adding sweeteners, flavors, filters, and spices, and instead focuses on honesty and purity, the True American way.

During our conversation, Andrew shares the importance of sourcing the best ingredients and why quality matters when serving customers. Andrew also talks in-depth about why transparency is essential to business.

When I asked about Andrew's biggest piece of advice, "Take the teacher, not the course," he stated that at the end of the day, you get more out of the teacher than a book someone else wrote.

Topics Discussed:

The artistic process behind creating the finest, top-tier rum
Why "more" booze doesn't always mean quality production
How to take something great and make it better
The history behind the rum and whiskey industry
Sticking true to your vision and integrity

Connect with Privateer Rum:

Website: https://privateerrum.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrivateerRum
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/privateerrum/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-cabot-24a6ba/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrivateerRum

Additional Resources:

Rum Revelations: https://www.rumrevelations.com/post/privateer-rum-distiller-s-drawer-review-9-21-31

Contact Privateer Rum:

Address: 11 Brady Dr, Ipswich, MA 01938
Call: 978-356-0477
Email: andrew@privateerrum.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

Are you a small business owner looking to invest in brand photos for your latest product launch? Are you an influencer looking to build your next course and need new headshots? Or are you recently engaged and looking to book your wedding videographer? Then this episode is for you.

This week, I am joined by Sol Arnal, Owner of Sol Arnal Photo & Video, located in Wrentham, MA. Sol Arnal Photography offers an array of Commercial Photo + Video packages for businesses, including Interior Design, Architectural, Brand, Product, and Social Media Content. They also offer Personal Photo + Video, including Family, Maternity, Newborn, Wedding, and Events.

During our conversation, Sol shares her passion for helping corporate businesses promote their products for eCommerce and her love for assisting clients in capturing their most significant milestones.

Be sure to listen in as Mark and Sol discuss what it's like navigating through different levels of success and why it's okay to change direction in our industry. And don't forget! You can get 20% off your first package through Sol Arnal Photo & Video simply by mentioning Boston's Best. Now that's a deal you won't want to miss!

Topics Discussed:

Expanding your horizon to find opportunities for growth
The importance of efficient time management as a business owner
Why reliving moments through video is priceless
Not being afraid to change and evolve in your business

Connect with Sol Arnal Photography:

Website: https://solarnal.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solarnalphotography/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solarnal/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonsolesarnal/

Additional Resources:

The Knot: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/sol-arnal-boston-ma-980433
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sol-arnal-wrentham-3

Contact Sol Arnal Photography:

Call: 857-207-6577
Email: solarnalphotography@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am joined by Rob Garvey, Owner of Heritage Smart Technologies, located in Norfolk, MA. Heritage Smart Technologies provides affordable tech solutions for your home or business, creating a more accessible, more enjoyable living space. Specializing in home automation, lighting, home theater, audio, and surveillance, Heritage Smart Technologies can create the oasis you've always dreamed of in the comfort of your own home or office.

During our conversation, Rob shares how he fell in love with audiovisual technologies at an early age and how he was always drawn to technology solutions to make his music sound better and his life more enjoyable during high school. Now, years later, Rob shares this passion with others by providing his clients with the latest technology trends. We also discuss the importance of giving back to your local community and why you can't put a dollar amount behind success.

Topics Discussed:

The learning curve in the audio and visual industry
Pushing outside of your comfort zone in marketing
The power of networking with other small businesses
Misconceptions behind "fixing" electronics

Connect with Heritage Smart Technologies:

Website: https://www.heritagesmart.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heritagesmarttech
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heritagesmarttechnologies/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-garvey-84a0a046/

Additional Resources:

Home Advisor: https://www.homeadvisor.com/rated.appliancepro2u.113814795.html

Contact Heritage Smart Technologies:

Call: 508-570-6746
Email: rob@heritagesmart.com
Address: 4 Mill River Rd, Norfolk, MA 02056

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

Are you on the hunt for that perfect conversation piece for your next dinner party with friends? Need to add a pop of color to your office space to spruce up your zoom calls? Or are you looking for a one-of-a-kind, handwoven basket for your newly installed guest bedroom? Then you'll love this week's guest of Boston's Best!

This week, I am joined by Melissa McCray, Owner of Two Webster. Two Webster is a home and decorative accessories shop located in Osterville, MA, specializing in unique and custom-made home goods from around the world. Featured pieces include ceramic pitchers from Greece, chain stitch pillows from Kashmir, and birchwood veneer trays from Sweden.

During our conversation, Melissa shares how Two Webster got started with the help of her friend, Kiki, and the "why" behind finding creative and innovative home goods. We also discuss how the global pandemic shifted the business and what Melissa dreams of for the future of Two Webster.

Topics Discussed:

Challenges faced behind branding and finding unique inventory
An inside look behind finding one-of-a-kind handmade pieces
The first piece of advice behind starting a new business
Why referrals and repeat customers are the biggest compliments

Connect with Two Webster:

Website: https://twowebster.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twowebster
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twowebster/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/mgmccray/

Contact Two Webster:

Email: info@twowebster.com
Address: 835 Main St, Osterville, MA 02655

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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While stretching is something that most of us know we should implement, very few follow through. Many of us often skip stretching after an intense workout, but stretching is key to restoring our tired muscles.

This week, I am joined by Charles Arakelian and Shannon Lundy. Charles is the Owner of Stretch Zone in Wayland, MA, where Shannon is also the General Manager. Charles is also the Owner of Chucks Buckets, a line of hats repped by major sports players. Stretch Zone offers practitioner-assisted stretching utilizing patented equipment to position and stabilizes muscles, allowing long-lasting results.

During our conversation, Charles and Shannon share the many benefits of stretching, such as increased blood flow and muscle recovery, as well as improving sleep. We also discuss the major differences in stretching on your own versus coming in and having the stretching done for you.

Topics Discussed:

Why stretching before and after a workout is vital for muscle strength
The importance of networking with local businesses
Dispelling myths and misconceptions behind stretching
Utilizing the S.W.O.T. analysis when starting a business

Connect with Stretch Zone:

Website: https://www.stretchzone.com/locations/wayland/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-arakelian-ii-435392b8/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stretch-Zone-Wayland-100265659027495/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stretchzone_wayland/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StretchZoneUSA

Connect with Chucks Buckets:

Email: chucksbuckets@gmail.com
Website: https://www.chucksbuckets.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chucksbuckets/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chucksbuckets/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChucksBuckets

Contact Stretch Zone:

Call: 617-360-7004
Email: wayland@stretchzone.com
Address: 75 Andrew Ave, Wayland, MA 01778

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts. Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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Did you know that over 250,000 tons of textile waste are produced each year in Massachusetts alone? That’s 10x the weight of The Statue of Liberty! While this number is outrageously high, my guest this week is on a mission to change the trajectory of repurposing textiles.

I am joined by Mary Dimouro, Founder and Creator of On The Road Again Bags, LLC®. As a child, Mary learned how to sew from her mother, a well-known seamstress, and she always helped her with projects growing up. Now, On The Road Again Bags, founded in 2018, focuses on repurposing old materials and leftover scraps from the boating and trucking industry. Mary uses "deadstock," materials such as durable mesh, water-resistant fabric, and grommets, sitting in warehouses waiting to go to landfills to reuse and repurpose rather than using new materials.

During our conversation, Mary shares the importance of managing a healthy work-life balance and why practicing good time management is a vital skill set for any business owner. We also discuss the importance of practicing self-care and finding time to be in the present moment to avoid potential burnout.

Topics Discussed:

The Dual-Purpose behind the name and brand
Understanding demographics in your industry
Acknowledging your accomplishments
Pushing past your comfort zone

Connect with On The Road Again Bags:

Website: https://www.ontheroadagainbags.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ontheroadagainbags
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ontheroadagain_official/

Additional Resources:

Boston Voyager: http://bostonvoyager.com/interview/meet-mary-dimouro-road-hudson-clinton-ma/

Contact On The Road Again Bags:

Call: 978-302-7634
Email: hello@ontheroadagainbags.com
Address: 98 Sterling St, Clinton, MA 01510

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Do you have the next major tech startup? Or looking to launch your million-dollar idea? Then you'll love this week's featured guest!

I am joined by Peter Drakulich, Co-Founder of 52Launch, alongside his business partner and President of 52Launch, Daniel C. Gonyea. 52Launch provides startups, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs a cost-effective and successful path to market by launching a new product. Their A-Z process takes the entrepreneur from napkin to reality by reducing the time to get to revenue, scaling the idea for volume, and accelerating growth.

During our conversation, Peter and Dan share how they started 52Launch, what makes a good entrepreneur, and why the first initial idea is hardly the final outcome when launching a new product or business. Peter and Dan also talk in-depth about their favorite entrepreneurs and startups to work with and why networking and connecting with other like-minded business owners create the best synergy to bringing an idea to fruition.

Topics Discussed:

Flexibility, humility, & an open mind as the keys to launching a great product
Recognizing that it's not about the idea but the business behind the idea
Why you don't need to be the smartest person in the room
Emotion and passion as the driving force for an entrepreneur
Learning from failures and dusting yourself off
Defining success as being in control of your own life

Connect with 52Launch:

Website: https://52launch.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/52launch/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/52launch/
LinkedIn (Peter): https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterdrakulich/
LinkedIn (Dan): https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-c-gonyea-9903295/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/52Launch
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-jK2rfrIdUz1nGQ6BuG_5Q

Additional Resources:

City Biz List: https://citybizlist.com/article/480054/52-launch-ignites-another-successful-kickstarter-campaign

Contact 52Launch:

Call: 508-405-2605
Email: info@52launch.com
Address: 1630 Concord Rd, Framingham, MA 01701

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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For those who are a part of the “Zero Waste Movement” or those who simply want to take better care of our planet, we’ve often been told to “reduce, reuse, recycle.” There are recycle cans and drop-offs next to trash disposals in highly-trafficked places, such as restaurants and shopping centers. But how much of our waste actually gets recycled? While recycling old bottles and cans may temporarily relieve waste, it doesn’t necessarily stop the issue of mass-producing new ones. So what if there was a better way to reduce waste in our communities?

This week, I am joined by Petros Palandjian, Founder of Good Filling Company, a zero-waste, all-natural refill service for home-care and personal-care products. Good Filling Company brings convenience to the #ZeroWasteMovement by providing Bostonians with 100% all-natural, refillable products to make a positive impact. Fro

During our conversation, Petros shares the strategy behind bringing focus and attention to reducing and reusing home products rather than simply recycling bottles. According to Petros, only about 9% of recycled goods actually get recycled. By providing refillable, all-natural, eco-friendly, and convenient household products, such as soaps, cleaners, and detergents, Good Filling Company is working towards making waste reduction readily accessible to all.

Topics Discussed:

The truth behind the recycling industry
Shifting the focus towards reduction and reuse
Why business isn’t about making sales but building strong relationships
Myths and misconceptions behind reducing, reusing, and recycling
Partnering with companies to create space for sustainability and “zero waste”

Connect with Good Filling Company:

Website: https://www.goodfilling.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodFillingCompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodfillingcompany/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petros-palandjian-358726a0/

Additional Resources:

Cambridge Community Television: https://www.cctvcambridge.org/node/794402

Contact Good Filling Company:

Call: 617-710-5981
Email: petros@good-filling.com
Address: 100 Cambridgeside Pl F27, East

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Calling all Golfers, Baseball players, and sports junkies alike, if you like crushing stereotypes and having fun on the field, then you won’t want to miss this week’s episode of Boston’s Best!

I am joined by Steve Happas, CEO & Co-Owner of Swing Juice, a Fun Lifestyle Apparel Brand for Golf & Baseball Fanatics, and an officially licensed MLB Players and MLBPA Clubhouse brand. Swing Juice was initially created as a beverage company for the golf enthusiast and slowly transitioned in 2014 as an apparel brand to break the stereotypes behind golfers and represent what matters most: having fun.

During our conversation, Steve shares his serial entrepreneurial journey and what he learned from each business venture before starting Swing Juice. Steve also shares how he got involved with sports radio during college and his hustle mentality working at a baseball stadium selling concessions. We also discuss the importance of not being afraid of taking risks as an entrepreneur and why success can’t be measured in a single goal.

Topics Discussed:

Blending hard work, long hours, & quick thinking as an entrepreneur
How to create a brand that resonates with the consumer
Understanding the metrics behind "Best Sellers"
Why "Conversation Starters" make the most effective marketing
The importance of finding mentors to help guide you in business

Connect with Swing Juice:

Website: https://swingjuice.com/
Facebook: https://business.facebook.com/swingjuice/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swingjuice/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shappas/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SwingJuice
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/swingjuice

Additional Resources:

Sports Illustrated: Behind the Brand - Swing Juice: https://www.si.com/golf/podcasts/the-inside-story-of-swing-juice-golf-apparel

Contact Swing Juice:

Call: 781-710-9374
Email: social@swingjuice.com
Address: Braintree, MA

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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What happens when you combine growing your own vegetables, herbs, and flowers with a specialty-artisan charcuterie delivery service? Well, things get a little "Grazy."

This week, I am joined by Kelley Kevan, Founder of Grazy, a snack and gift box delivery service. From picking pears from her family's pear trees in New Hampshire as a child to now serving the local Boston community, Grazy was birthed in 2020 and thrived through Covid-19. With over 15-years of hospitality experience in Food and Beverage Services and as a Hotel Executive, Kelley has an entrepreneurial passion for making every box an uplifting experience for all that graze on it.

During our conversation, we talk in-depth about misconceptions behind boots-on-the-ground methods for networking and why building relationships with your customers is essential for building a successful business. We also discuss the work-life balance between hustling hard and taking care of your mental health and why sometimes you have to take a step back to move forward.

Topics Discussed:

Utilizing your “free time” to grow a side hustle
How to market your business (going back to the basics)
Why investing in your business before you start is essential for success
Early successes (and challenges) faced during the peak of Covid-19
Recognizing the importance of customer service & going the extra mile

Connect with Grazy:

Website: https://getgrazy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grazyllc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grazy.gifts/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/kelleykevan/

Contact Grazy:

Call: 617-863-8557
Email: hello@getgrazy.com
Address: 3 Marble St, Stoneham, MA 02180

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am joined by returning guests Anthony Passamonte and Lindsey Corak. Both Adam and Lindsey are Strategic Lifestyle and Fitness Planners who want to help others "stack up" positive, consistent habits in order to level up their lives.

Anthony and Lindsey dedicate their time to serving others and cultivating strong relationships. By leveraging strengths and weaknesses, they help individuals achieve their goals, regardless of their fitness level. The last time they were on the show, we talked about their business, Stacked Up Fitness, and how the fitness industry is constantly changing.

With those changes, Anthony and Lindsey are back to discuss their latest project, StackTrax Fitness. StackTrax Fitness is a new way to "lock in" your fitness and provides a convenient training solution for all fitness levels. This releasable and portable equipment creates a space-saving, versatile, and cost-effective workout space at home and beyond. Through patent research, dedication, and networking, Anthony and Lindsey pivoted from coaching online through the pandemic and brought this new concept to life.

Topics Discussed:

Creative Design Process: From the First Model to the Finalized Product
Keeping a positive mindset to help push through the challenges
The power of networking and sharing your mission with others
Continual growth & strong communication as keys to a successful business

Connect with StackTrax Fitness :

Website: https://stacktrax.shop/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacktraxfitness/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stacktraxfitness/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l.a_trax/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theburnboss/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stack_trax
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjtzKtvqU2eQM37vcZTH3sw/about

Additional Resources:

Medium - Authority Magazine: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/lindsey-corak-of-stack-trax-the-power-of-flexibility-how-i-was-able-to-pivot-to-a-new-exciting-e2034df5e6c6

Contact StackTrax Fitness:

Call: 508-523-1123
Email: info@stacktraxfitness.com
Address: Framingham, MA

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I'm talking with Robyn Riseberg, Founder of Boston Community Pediatrics (BCP). Boston Community Pediatrics was founded in November 2020 and is the first nonprofit pediatric private practice of its kind in Massachusetts. Providing primary care services, BCP also offers mental health resources, fitness, nutrition, and after-school programming.

By providing individualized care and leveraging asset-based, relationship-driven approaches to improve health outcomes and lower health care costs, BCP can provide healthcare for all patients, regardless of socioeconomic status or background.

Throughout our conversation, Robyn discusses what it was like working in the medical field 15-years before founding BCP and how traveling to India and Thailand pushed her to want to help people. In 2019, Robyn knew she wanted to "bring equity to pediatric healthcare," thus creating the vision for BCP. Robyn and I also discuss the importance of leading with your passion and why you should continue to pursue your goals and dreams despite negative feedback.

Topics Discussed:

Advocating for the health and wellness of everyone
Number one piece of advice for starting a nonprofit organization
Why success isn't a linear path but a path worth taking
Challenging yourself and getting outside of your comfort zone
Creating a positive impact in your local community

Connect with Boston Community Pediatrics:

Website: https://www.bostoncommunitypediatrics.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bostoncommunitypediatrics/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostoncommunitypediatrics/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-riseberg-569745167/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BostonComPedi

Additional Resources:

The Boston Sun:

https://thebostonsun.com/2021/07/29/boston-community-pediatrics-named-mass-winner-in-red-sox-grants-addressing-mental-health-in-new-england/

Contact Boston Community Pediatrics:

Call: 617-934-6009
Email: robyn@bostoncommunitypediatrics.org / info@bostoncommunitypediatrics.org
Address: 527 Albany St #200, Boston, MA 02118

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

What’s better than a good cup of coffee and good vibes?

Knowing that you’re supporting a local, woman-owned business!

This week, I'm talking with Meaghan Peters, Owner of Crosby's Coffeehouse. Crosby’s Coffeehouse is an independent coffee shop located in Wrentham, MA, serving locally roasted coffee, baked goods, and good vibes.

Throughout our conversation, Meaghan shares how she went from working in a non-profit organization to building a successful coffee shop during Covid-19. By cultivating a strong community in 2020, during a time when most people found themselves at home, Crosby's Coffeehouse became a catalyst for building friendships and supporting local business.

Meaghan also shares how reaching out about a new industry, asking for help when she didn't know where to turn, and putting in the hours during an uncertain time jumpstarted her business.

Topics Discussed:

What it was like starting a business amidst the Global Pandemic
How to lead with humility by asking questions to industry leaders
Misconceptions behind building and scaling a small business
The deeper meaning behind “Crosby’s Coffeehouse”
Why it’s important to focus on the “wins”, no matter how small

Connect with Crosby's Coffeehouse:

Website: https://crosbyscoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrosbysCoffeehouse/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crosbyscoffeehouse/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meaghanpeters1/

Additional Resources:

RestaurantJi:https://www.restaurantji.com/ma/wrentham/crosbys-coffeehouse-/

Contact Crosby's Coffeehouse:

Call: 774-847-9662
Email: crosbyscoffeehouse@gmail.com
Address: 48 South St, Wrentham, MA 02093

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Are you looking at buying a new property in 2022?

Maybe you're looking for the perfect vacation spot for you and your friends. Or perhaps you're looking to start a family in your forever home.

Regardless of your property needs, my guest this week is the perfect person to make your moving dreams come true.

This week, I'm talking with Lucas McGary. Lucas is a Mortgage Advisor of McGary Mortgages through Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. In 2019, Lucas was recognized as Rookie of the Year by closing over $63 million in loans during his second year.

His secret?

Lucas provides top-notch service and effective communication while educating potential home buyers.

Throughout our conversation, Lucas shares challenges he faced while navigating the mortgage and home-buying industry, how he pivoted from his initial referral business, and the importance of focusing on what you're good at and leading with your strengths.

Topics Discussed:

Communication & Customer Service: The most critical things in any industry
How Covid-19 impacted the home buying industry
The average age of first-time homeowners in the next 3-4 years
Understanding how Inflation and Interest Rates work
Why minorities are buying more homes than ever

Connect with McGary Mortgages:

Website: https://www.fairwayindependentmc.com/Lucas-J-McGary
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucas.mcgary
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcgary_mortgages/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-mcgary-445b017

Additional Resources:

Boston Magazine:https://bostonagentmagazine.com/whos-who-2021/lucas-j-mcgary/

Contact McGary Mortgages:

Call: 617-347-9629
Email: lucas.mcgary@fairwaymc.com
Address: 380 W Broadway, Boston, MA 02127

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I'm talking with Masha Amelina, a Certified Physician Assistant and Founder of Visage Sculpture, the Premiere Cosmetic Clinic of Newton. Visage Sculpture specializes in non-surgical face shaping.

Originally from Russia, Masha moved to the U.S. at 17 and has always dreamed of becoming a plastic surgeon. After working in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in the Boston Medical Center, Masha decided to start her own company.

Throughout our conversation, Masha shares her experience of what it was like driving hours away to meet her first few clients and why years later, she is grateful for all the long hours put in and all the people she has met along the way.

We also discuss the importance of empowering people and making them feel beautiful. By preserving natural beauty rather than following the hottest trend, Masha believes in leading with authenticity and integrity. Her Rule of Thumb? "If I wouldn't do this to myself, my mom, or my friend, I'm not going to offer it to you."

Topics Discussed:

Leading with authenticity and integrity over following trends
Why feeling rested is better than simply looking rested
Dispelling misconceptions behind the industry
The process behind non-surgical face shaping
Empowering men and women by enhancing their natural beauty

Connect with Visage Sculpture:

Website: https://www.visagesculpture.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisageSculpture/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visagesculpture/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VisageSculpture
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dv6wI0JyNI0

Additional Resources:

Visage Sculpture - Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Boston MA:https://www.visagesculpture.com/non-surgical-rhinoplasty-boston-ma/

Contact Visage Sculpture:

Call: 617-795-0201
Email: info@visagesculpture.com
Address: 53 Dudley Rd, Newton, MA 02459

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I'm talking with Mike Lamagna, Founder of Long Wharf Supply Co., a clothing brand that makes sweaters from recycled oyster shells, recycled water bottles, and natural lamb's wool.

Mike’s passion started when he was carried aboard a boat on the Merrimack River in Newburyport, MA., when he was only three days old. Growing up on the water, Mike saw how much plastic and waste was in the ocean and wanted to do something about it. Utilizing storytelling, relatability, authenticity, and sustainability, Mike launched Long Wharf Supply Co in the Fall of 2016.

Throughout our conversation, we discuss the importance of storytelling and being an authentic brand. Mike shares his time on Shark Tank and how it ignited Long Wharf Supply Co. Mike also shares why small, intentional expansion for the community is essential to a successful business.

Topics Discussed:

The reality behind achieving success
Following the bread crumbs and finding opportunities
Sharing the story vs. selling the product
How sustainable, recycled clothing positively impacts the environment

Connect with Long Wharf Supply Co:

Website: https://longwharfsupply.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/longwharfsupply
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longwharfsupply/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lamagna-5b6b9124/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/longwharfsupply

Additional Resources:

Shark Tank Blog - Long Wharf Supply Company:https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/long-wharf-supply-company/

Contact Long Wharf Supply Co:

Email: hello@longwharfsupply.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Calling all engaged (or soon-to-be engaged) couples!

Are you planning on tying the knot in 2022? Congratulations!

There are many fun and exciting things to do while planning for your big day. But we all know that you're not simply preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime event but a lifelong commitment.

While many couples may feel uncomfortable talking about finances or even the potential threat of divorce while preparing for their wedding day, having open and honest conversations around future goals is essential for a successful marriage.

This week, I'm talking with Julia Rodgers, CEO & Co-Founder of HelloPrenup. HelloPrenup is located in Boston, MA, and serves engaged couples looking to discuss and create a prenuptial agreement without feelings of dread, awkwardness, or discomfort!

Prenuptial agreements can help you form a stronger bond by effectively communicating and identifying shared (or unshared!) financial debts and assets. After all, the most significant investment you can give one another is a prosperous, secure, and thriving marriage.

Topics Discussed:

Perceptions of Prenup Agreements & how people approach the conversation
One MAJOR misconception behind the Prenup Industry
Helping couples start the conversation around life, finances, and future goals
Creating the "perfect marriage" on Shark Tank
Defining success as waking up content, happy, and excited each morning

Connect with HelloPrenup:

Website:https://helloprenup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelloPrenup/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/helloprenup/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliarodgers/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/HelloPrenup
Twitter:https://twitter.com/Julia_Rodgers_
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqe-NOs0xV7yEebsg8om27A

Additional Resources:

HelloPrenup Podcast: https://helloprenup.com/helloprenup-podcast/
Boston-Based “HelloPrenup” on Shark Tank:https://www.wcvb.com/article/hello-prenup-abc-shark-tank-nov-12-2021/38239059

Contact HelloPrenup:

Call:617-531-1680
Email: hello@helloprenup.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Calling all farmers, maltsters, brewers, and beer lovers alike!

This week, I'm talking with Maureen and Robin Fabry, Co-Founders of CraftRoots Brewing. Taking root in April of 2014 in Milford, Massachusetts, CraftRoots Brewing is passionate about connecting craft beer back to local agriculture and crafting super-fresh community-inspired brews with their 7-barrel brewery and taproom, serving eight different beer styles daily.

CraftRoots Brewing is Milford's first brewery and is also the first 100% woman-owned "brick-and-mortar" brewery in the history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. CraftRoots Brewing is grounded in a truly grassroots idea by encompassing a community-inspired brewery with sustainability at its core.

In our conversation, Maureen and Robin both share how they keep things creative and fresh at CraftRoots Brewing and the culture that they have cultivated inside their community. We also discuss the innovation in the craft beer industry and what it means to pursue your passion with the world.

Topics Discussed:

How CraftRoots Brewing got its name and the pursuit of sustainability
Overcoming obstacles and learning new skillsets from past challenges
Embracing diversity and inclusivity within the community
How Covid-19 impacted CraftRoots Brewing and how they pivoted quickly

Connect with CraftRoots Brewing:

Website: https://www.craftrootsbrewing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CraftRootsBrewing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craftroots_brewing/

Additional Resources:

Edible Boston - “CraftRoots Brewing is Making History - and Great Beer”: https://www.edibleboston.com/blog/2019/6/25/craftroots-brewing-is-making-historyand-great-beer

Contact CraftRoots Brewing:

Call: 508-381-1920
Address: 4 Industrial Rd, Milford, MA 01757
Email: info@craftrootsbrewing.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Is the Boston Winter getting you down? Already daydreaming of those warm, Summer nights? Then imagine this:

It's the 4th of July weekend; you're sitting next to your closest friends since college, sipping your favorite beer from the local brewery and chilling next to your newly installed, custom-designed pool. If you've ever dreamt of owning your own pool, then you've come to the right place.

This week, I'm talking with David Hobaica, President & Co-Owner of Easton Pool & Spa, alongside his brother, Bob. Easton Pool & Spa is an award-winning, family-owned business specializing in custom pools on the South Shore of MA, with over four decades of crafting high-quality in-ground pools. They are also the authorized dealer of Plunge+.

In our conversation, David shares the importance of the customer experience and why customer service is everything. David also talks about how Covid-19 impacted their business by doubling their sales from 2019.

So whether you are in the market for a new inground pool, a replacement liner, visiting their retail stores, or scheduling service on your existing pool, Easton Pool & Spa are ready to help! #TheNewWayToPool

Topics Discussed:

Treating people how you want to be treated as the number ONE priority
Owning your mistakes and learning how to grow from them
How to take calculated risks and set yourself apart from the competition

Connect with Easton Pool & Spa:

Website:https://www.eastonpool.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/EastonPoolSpa/
IG:https://www.instagram.com/eastonpool/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/plungeplus/
IG:https://www.instagram.com/davehobaica/
LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hobaica-64576346/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/EastonPoolSpa
YT: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=246291156815695

Additional Resources:

Houzz - Easton Pool & Spa - Where Great Backyards Begin!:https://www.houzz.com/professionals/swimming-pool-builders/easton-pool-and-spa-where-great-backyards-begin-pfvwus-pf~1292499725

Contact Easton Pool & Spa:

Call:508-238-9698
Address:736R Washington St, South Easton, MA 02375
Email: sales@eastonpool.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

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It's about that time of year again!

If you're looking for the perfect holiday gift or need a last-minute dessert idea for your holiday party, then you've come to precisely the right place!

This week, I'm talking with Kori Medeiros, Owner of Miss Marble, a luxury chocolate bark company. Like many local businesses, Miss Marble first got its start during Covid-19 and has flourished ever since. With Ghiradelli chocolate mixed with the most delicious and nostalgic flavors (Dunkaroos, anyone?!) and monthly menu changes, Miss Marble's chocolates are the perfect luxury dessert item.

In our conversation, Kori shares where her inspiration comes from when creating custom chocolate bark and how she went from bringing chocolate bark to friends' and family's events to officially launching Miss Marble almost one year ago.

Topics Discussed:

Following the trend of custom luxury donuts to creating custom luxury chocolates
Expanding your network: The foundation for your growth
Focusing the personalized product and packaging for local vendors
Defining success as exceeding your expectations
Goals for the future of Miss Marble through event planning

Connect with Miss Marble:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Miss-Marble-100284628785095
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miss_marbles_marble/

Additional Resources:

The Helping Heart - Charity: https://www.facebook.com/HelpingHeartBoston/

Contact Miss Marble:

Address: Fall River, MA
Email: missmarble20@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I'm talking with Chip Jarry, Co-Founder of Bay State Brewing Company, alongside his business partner, Shawn Rich. While combining their 45-years of beer and brewing knowledge, both Chip and Shawn opened Bay State Brewing Company in 2012. By 2019, they opened their Bay State Taproom in Worcester while celebrating the city's 150th anniversary.

In this episode, Chip shares the inspiration and process behind naming their craft beers. While advocating for female empowerment rather than female objectification, Chip's wife celebrates powerful women in history by incorporating historical figures into their beer campaigns. Chip also shares why retirement is the worst thing anyone can work towards, both mentally and physically.

Topics Discussed:

Navigating the opening of Bay State's Taproom amid COVID-19
Why community support is essential to local business
Learning how to adapt & pivot when starting (& growing) your business
Honing your brand before developing new skills

Connect with Bay State Brewing Company:

Website: https://baystatebrewing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bay-State-Brewing-Co-306730612673570
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baystatebrewing/

Contact Bay State Brewing Company:

Address: 112 Harding St, Worcester, MA 01604
Call: 774-420-2233
Email: chip@baystatebeer.com & shawn@baystatebeer.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I'm talking with Mike Peshler, Owner and Founder of Athletic Strength Training. AST is a personal training facility serving clients of all ages and skill levels in the Ashland area. Their gym is for anyone who wants to make a serious change in their life, including sports performance, health, confidence, or just wanting to feel great.

Depending on their current fitness levels, new clients will be built up properly with a foundation of strength and flexibility training. Regardless of performance level or age, AST is dedicated to helping YOU achieve your fitness and health goals by offering one-on-one and group training.

In this episode, Mike dispels the myth behind the "Go Big or Go Home" mentality and why working out too hard can do more harm than good towards your health goals. Mike also shares why strength training is significantly underrated and why age is just a number for getting in shape.

Are you looking to kickstart your new, healthy lifestyle in a fun, safe, and supportive environment? Visit https://www.athleticstrengthtraining.com for your FREE training session!

Topics Discussed:

Common misconceptions behind strengthen training
Why not every workout has to be a "Rocky Montage"
Finding time for creative expression in your daily life
Why mentorship is essential for both personal & professional goals

Connect with Athletic Strength Training:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/athleticstrengthtraining/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athleticstrengthtraining/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iVGUhHDcDM

Relevant Articles:

Boston Voyager - Meet Mike Peshler of Athletic Strength Training in Ashland: http://bostonvoyager.com/interview/meet-michael-peshler-athletic-strength-training-metrowest-ashland/

Contact Athletic Strength Training:

Address: Hopkinton, MA
Call: 774-278-0195
Email: getstrong@athleticstrengthtraining.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

We all know that food creates experiences. Whether you're cooking your favorite Holiday dishes, prepping for tailgating parties, or doing some last-minute meal prepping for office Holiday parties, food is an essential part of creating long-lasting memories. Because of this, my guests this week offer quality, local products you genuinely can't find anywhere else.

This week, I'm talking with Jeff and Elyssa Kotzen, Co-Founders of New England Country Mart. New England Country Mart is a local fresh produce and grocery home delivery service focusing on sourcing the most local, sustainable, and nutrient-dense foods you can find across New England. Jeff and Elyssa believe that food should provide sustenance and pleasure and bring families and communities closer together.

In this episode, Jeff shares how New England Country Mart first started when his great-grandfather started a produce business in Boston. Jeff shares how the company has developed over time to become a family-owned and operated wholesale produce business. Elyssa also shares how they source their local produce and the importance of connecting with and supporting local businesses.

Topics Discussed:

Unique ways to partner with and support local businesses
The process behind pairing different tasting notes with wines and foods
Early successes (and challenges) behind starting NECM
The power of social media & connecting online (especially during Covid-19)
Balancing both the Wholesale and Retail side business

Connect with New England Country Mart:

Website: https://newenglandcountrymart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newenglandcountrymart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newenglandcountrymart/
Instagram (Jeff): https://www.instagram.com/jeffkotzen/
Instagram (Elyssa): https://www.instagram.com/epkotzen/

Relevant Articles:

Edible Boston: Preserving the Family Business - https://www.edibleboston.com/blog/2021/1/3/preserving-the-family-business-new-england-country-mart

Contact New England Country Mart:

Address: Chelsea, MA
Call: 617-812-5250
Email: info@newenglandcountrymart.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

If you’re looking for the perfect place to start your journey to better fitness, look no further. My guest this week knows what it means to be part of something bigger than yourself, no matter your athletic abilities.

This week, I'm talking with Craig Robertson, Head Coach and Owner of CrossFit Prosperity. At CrossFit Prosperity, they take an interest in every single client that walks through the door and dedicate themselves to helping athletes and non-athletes alike find their best individual fitness. They don't just teach fitness; they live it and are there to share that same passion with you, whether you are striving to be an elite athlete or you are just looking for a way to increase the quality and longevity of your life.

In this episode, Craig shares what makes his CrossFit gym different from other gyms and why he doesn't gear his programming towards the competitive side of CrossFit. We discuss the importance of meeting every individual where they're at in their fitness goals, how gyms have changed over the last couple of years, and how to provide a workout that everyone can enjoy.

Topics Discussed:

How CrossFit Prosperity is different from other CrossFit gyms
Creating a space for both training athletes and entry-level individuals alike
Why community is essential working out in the gym
Setting clear and concise goals in your personal and professional life
Learning to be flexible and not take every decision so seriously

Connect with CrossFit Prosperity:

Website: https://crossfitprosperity.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crossfitprosperity/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossfitprosperity/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cfprosperity

Contact CrossFit Prosperity:

Address: 83 Morse St Building 5, Norwood, MA 02062
Call: 781-269-2876
Email: Info@CrossfitProsperity.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

While eating nutritional food contributes to overall wellbeing, it's certainly not the only factor to a healthy lifestyle. It's essential to listen to your body's needs to live a balanced, whole lifestyle. Sometimes that looks like overcoming past traumas or finding healthy alternatives to handling stress. My guest this week believes that the path to optimal wellness is through addressing and supporting the foundational systems of the body.

This week, I'm talking with Kathleen Goller, FNTP, RWP, the Owner of Wholeistic by Kathleen. W-H-O-L-E…istic is a play on words to remind others to always be "whole." Kathleen works with clients worldwide on their overall wellness, including nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset.

In this episode, Kathleen shares her journey with an eating disorder in her late teens and how she redefined her relationship with healthy eating. Years after overcoming her own eating disorder, Kathleen now focuses on creating a genuine connection with her clients to help them with their health journey.

Topics Discussed:

What it means to live a balanced, WHOLE lifestyle
Why building relationships is the best marketing tool
The difference between eating disorders and substance addictions
Myths and misconceptions around the holistic health industry
Why being healthy isn't just about eating nutritional food

Connect with Wholeistic:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wholeisticbykathleen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholeisticbykathleen/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/_misskg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MissKG86

Relevant Articles:

Alignable - Wholeistic by Kathleen: https://www.alignable.com/ashland-ma/wholeistic-by-kathleen

Contact Wholeistic:

Address: Franklin, MA
Call: 508-451-4866
Email: kdgoller@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I'm talking with Greg Klein-Hertzel, CEO & Owner of ConnectivTech, Inc., located in Arlington, MA. ConnectivTech, Inc acts as your company's Fractional Chief Technology Officer (CTO), who partners with you and your technology needs. Acting as technology advisors, ConnectivTech provides customized business I.T. solutions to fit your needs regardless of industry or business size.

In this episode, Greg shares how he went from working in Healthcare to starting ConnectivTech three years ago. Over the last 18-months, technology has advanced tremendously, with no sign of stopping.

Although Covid-19 has impacted every business to some degree, Greg shares how his company wouldn't be as successful today if the entire world hadn't gone online in the last year. Greg also shares the Four Keys to Success and Happiness and why we should always strive to grow.

Topics Discussed:

The Three Pillars of the Success behind ConnectivTech
Bringing Expertise in every area to implement the RIGHT solutions
Common Misconceptions and hurdles regarding Cybersecurity
Advice for Entrepreneurs in the Technology Industry
Utilizing Data and Instinct to make informed decisions in business

Connect with ConnectivTech:

Website:https://connectivtech.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/greg.kleinhertzel
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-klein-hertzel-1522b010

Contact ConnectivTech:

Call: 857-855-0500
Email: connect@connectivtech.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I'm talking with Christina Larson and Rob Hook, Owners of Basic Batch Donuts, a specialty donut shop located in Milford, MA. After graduating from Johnson & Wales University in Denver, CO, with a baking and pastry degree and working in the restaurant industry for over fifteen years, Christina knew she wanted to open her own bakery.

After being laid off due to Covid, opening up a donut shop came to fruition. What started as a setback quickly turned into an opportunity as Christina and her fiance, Rob, worked tirelessly together to open up Basic Batch Donuts, despite the pandemic. Now, one year later, Rob and Christina share what it was like starting their company, plans for the future, and why their team feels more like family than employees.

When the two of them aren't making donuts in the early morning hours, you can often find them spending time with their dog Myla.

Topics Discussed:

Early Successes and Challenges faced within the first year of business
1 Misconception around the Donut & Pastry Industry
How growing too big, too quickly can cheapen the quality of your product
Why you miss opportunities when you’re focused on other people’s opinions

Connect with Basic Batch Donuts:

Website:https://basicbatchdonuts.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Basic-Batch-Donuts-105361991238415/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/basicbatchdonuts/

Relevant Articles:

MassLive - ‘Love and Patience’ Two Key Ingredients for Basic Batch Donuts in Milford: https://www.masslive.com/news/2021/05/love-and-patience-two-key-ingredients-for-basic-batch-donuts-in-milford.html

Contact Basic Batch Donuts:

Address: 206 E Main St, Milford, MA 01757
Email: info@basicbatchdonuts.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

Calling all coffee lovers!

This week, I'm talking with Spencer Mahoney, VP of Operations at Atomic Coffee Roasters, a coffee roastery located in Salem, MA. Their mission? To spread positive energy. For over two decades, the Mahoney family has used coffee as a catalyst for inspiring community, relationships, and adventures.

In this episode, Spencer shares how his uncles started Atomic Cafe in the mid-'90s and what it was like working at Atomic Cafe growing up. He also shares how they recently split the cafe's roasting division after his father got involved in the business. After splitting the cafe and the roastery, Spencer describes how they have developed and scaled their business model over the last two decades.

Topics Discussed:

The complete production process of roasting coffee
Myths and misconceptions around coffee roasting methods
The reward from partnering with local cafes and local business owners
Challenges faced dnd pivots made during covid-19
Making time to stay in balance in your professional and personal life

Connect with Atomic Coffee Roasters:

Website:https://atomicroastery.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/atomicoffeeroasters/
Instagram:https://instagram.com/atomicoffeeroasters?utm_medium=copy_link
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/spencermahoney/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencermahoney/

Relevant Articles:

New England Country Mart - Meet the Producer: Atomic Coffee from Massachusetts: https://newenglandcountrymart.com/meet-the-producer/meet-the-producer-atomic-coffee-from-massachusetts/
St. John’s Prep - Live! Since You Asked: Logan Mahoney '14 and Spencer Mahoney of Atomic Coffee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5K-jfToaB8

Contact Atomic Coffee Roasters:

Address: 45 Mason St, Salem, MA 01970
Call: 978-910-0489
Email: hello@atomicroastery.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

Gotta sweet tooth? Then you'll love this week's guest!

I am talking with Marcella Natale, Owner of Sweets by Cella, located in Boston, MA. Marcella is a current Business Major at UMass Boston and graduates in the Spring of 2022. Although Marcella is a "self-taught" baker, she has mastered the art and skill of baking and decorating decadent desserts.

Like many businesses, Sweets by Cella was born out of the Global Pandemic. What started as a therapeutic, fun hobby quickly became a viable business after receiving so many orders for her sweets. Her most significant order to date? Fifteen cake orders for Mother's Day.

In this episode, Marcella shares how she started Sweets by Cella, her favorite part of baking, and why relationships are the driving force in any business, big or small. Marcella also shares what it's like to juggle being a college student and a business owner and why time management is everything.

Topics Discussed:

How the Global Pandemic jumpstarted small businesses
Balancing College and Entrepreneurship
A common misconception about the Baking Industry
Finding Community with local bakers

Connect with Sweets by Cella

Website:https://sweetsbycella.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069680945866
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sweetsbycella/

Relevant Articles:

Yelp - Sweets by Cella: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sweets-by-cella-boston-2

Contact Sweets by Cella:

Call: 617-963-9210
Email: sweetsbycellabakery@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

“Are you willing to completely love and accept yourself, even if you fail?”

This question is one that we all can relate to. No matter what industry you’re in, finding the confidence to love yourself, understand your value, and own your worth are keys to success. This week’s guest focuses on those strengths and helps others on their journey to self-love and self-confidence.

I am talking with Ashley Paré, the Founder and CEO of Own Your Worth. Ashley is a Leadership and Negotiation Coach and helps their clients gain recognition for their impact at work, articulate their value, and ultimately make more money. After climbing the corporate ladder in HR for 12 years, Ashley decided to start Own Your Worth after not receiving the raise she felt she deserved. Now, she leverages her global human resources background to help bridge the gap between employers and employees.

In this episode, Ashley walks us through how she helps others find confidence in their value and worth in their professional lives. We also discuss the importance of prioritizing your time, setting boundaries, and getting clear on your why.

Topics Discussed:

Helping women boost their confidence in feeling seen and heard in HR
Early challenges faced in starting a company after leaving the corporate world
Establishing a healthy relationship with money based on abundance
Using curiosity to identify your fears to overcome limiting beliefs

Connect with Own Your Worth

Website: https://www.ownyourworth.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.ownyourworth/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleypare
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ownyourworth/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/iamashleypare/

Relevant Articles:

TedxTalks - “How to Have Your Cake & Negotiate Too” -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOE3VN_3PME&feature=emb_imp_woyt
Whole U - Own Your Worth! - https://www.wholeu.info/blog/Negotiation

Contact Own Your Worth:

Address: 681 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02116
Call: 617-544-7826
Email: ashley@ownyourworth.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

The best businesses often start by doing things differently. This week, my guest shares how he capitalized on the untapped opportunity by responding to a gap between the customization market and the footwear industry by celebrating individuality and facilitating self-expression.

I am talking with Justin Kittredge, Founder, CEO, and Janitor at ISlide, a customizable footwear company in Boston, MA. ISlide gives you a unique opportunity to stand in what you stand for by enabling you to create a design to sport on a pair of high-quality, athletic slides so that you can carry your beliefs and interests with you wherever you go.

Today, Justin shares how he got started in the footwear industry by working for Reebok, building relationships in the Sports and Marketing world. After selling his first slide in 2013, ISlide was off to the races. Justin also shares how DJ Khaled helped jumpstart ISlide's career by helping sell over 800 slides in his store on the first day. We also discuss early challenges faced in his career as well as plans for the future.

Topics Discussed:

How DJ Khaled helped ISlide sell over 800 slides in one day
Challenges faced in the Footwear Industry
Misconceptions behind Entrepreneurship
Balancing work-life balance as a husband and father
How to start a business by finding a need and meeting it

Connect with ISlide

Website: https://islideusa.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISlideUSA/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-kittredge-39319a7/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islideusa/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/islidejanitor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ISlideUSA
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/islideusa

Relevant Articles:

PRESS - https://islideusa.com/blogs/press

Contact ISlide:

Address: 65 Sprague St building 2nd floor, Boston, MA 02136
Call: 585-547-5433
Email: justin@islideusa.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am talking with David Virden, Owner of Virden Benefits, a full-service Insurance Benefits provider, located in Danvers, MA. Before David Virden's insurance career, he worked in Consumer Goods Marketing, working for advertising agencies & clients, including Dunkin' Donuts & Volkswagen and the Boston Beer Company.

After his father was diagnosed with ALS in 2006, he sought to work for an ALS organization. David wanted to create the awareness and advocacy the ALS community deserves.

While working as a Benefits Advisor, this allows him to continue helping people. Offering practical, affordable peace of mind, David is currently licensed in MA, RI, NH, ME, VT, NC, SC, and VA and is adding licenses where opportunities present.

Today, David shares early challenges faced in his business, how he helps alleviate financial stress for Cancer Patients, and his “why” behind helping those with Short-Term Disabilities. We also discuss the best approach for marketing in business, why working for yourself can set you apart, and the importance of insuring your paycheck to help you afford a “normal” lifestyle

Topics Discussed:

Why In-Person Networking is where the “Magic” happens for strong relationships
Dispelling the Myth(s) behind Short-Term Disability (3-6 months)
Referrals as the number ONE marketing tactic
Common Myths and Misconceptions behind Insurance Companies
Why seeking Entrepreneurship early on can set you up for Success

Connect with Virden Benefits

Website: https://www.virdenbenefits.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virdenbenefitsllc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davevirden/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/virden_benefits_llc/

Relevant Articles:

Alignable - https://www.alignable.com/danvers-ma/virden-benefits-llc

Contact Virden Benefits:

Address: 150A Andover St #12c, Danvers, MA 01923
Call: 617-233-9937
Email: david@virdenbenefitsllc.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with Chris Tkach, Owner, and Founder of Idle Hands Craft Ales. Idle Hands is a Belgian and German-inspired Craft Brewery located in Malden, MA, and is celebrating its 10th anniversary during Oktoberfest. What started as a simple homebrewing kit from his uncle for his 21st birthday quickly became a passion for creating craft beers for others to enjoy.

Not only does Chris appreciate the art behind beer making, but his wife Grace is also a beer connoisseur and plays the significant role of Idle Hands Chief Right Hand. While Chris manages all beer-related functions of the brewery, Grace takes care of all “right-brained activities, including marketing and people-related fun.”

Today, Chris shares what the past ten years have been like in the beer industry and the many changes along the way, including the opportunity to open their taproom. We also discuss the challenges faced during Covid-19 and how Idle Hands was well equipped to pivot along the way. Chris also shares his goals for the future and advice he would give any new business owner.

Topics Discussed:

Changes in the craft beer industry over the past decade
Defining Entrepreneurship as reinventing your business over & over again
How Covid-19 impact the beer industry (and how Idle Hands pivoted)
Why feeding your soul is more important than feeding your bank account
Recognizing pure joy and happiness as the ultimate form of success

Connect with Idle Hands Craft Ales:

Website: http://www.idlehandscraftales.com/site/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdleHandsCraftAles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idlehandsbeer/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/idlehandsbeer

Relevant Articles:

Idle Hands Craft Ales, Best Brewery in Boston - https://www.bostonmagazine.com/best-of-boston-archive/2020/idle-hands-craft-ales/

Contact Idle Hands Craft Ales:

Address: 89 Commercial St, Malden, MA 02148
Call: 781-333-6070
Email: info@idlehandscraftales.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with Chris Antao, Founder of Gnome Surf, located in Fall River, MA. Gnome Surf is a 501c3 Non-Profit Surf Therapy Organization providing innovative healthcare services that address physical and mental health and the emotional well-being of their Athletes.

Gnome Surf focuses on Neurodivergent Children and Adults and teaches them how to embrace charity and nature, promote positivity, create the feeling of accomplishment, model persistence characteristics, and practice overcoming obstacles through surfing. They specialize in teaching kids the positive power of surfing and empowering them through the waves’ spiritual power.

Today, Chris shares the power of surfing and why he believes the waves have divine healing powers. We discuss how neurodivergent individuals perform better in the water and why it empowers them to overcome daily struggles. Chris also shares how Surf Therapy helped him overcome his battles and why being out on the water is a spiritual experience for each person.

Topics Discussed:

Learning to ride the waves of life helps us understand how to get back up
Finding Inner Confidence and Self-Esteem through Surf Therapy
Using surfing as a tool to overcome daily struggles for overall Well-Being
Impact and Compassion you leave on others as the biggest factor of Success

Connect with Gnome Surf:

Website: http://www.gnomesurf.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gnomesurf/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnomesurf/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv9oJQSOBoHPGT_yGjVR6Dw/videos?view=0&sort=p

Relevant Articles:

Gnome Surf Changing Kids’ Lives One Lesson at a Time -https://www.abc6.com/gnome-surf-changing-kids-lives-one-lesson-at-a-time/

Contact Gnome Surf:

Address: 1510 Highland Ave, Fall River, MA 02720
Call: 508-981-8152
Email: gnomecreate@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Needing a creative space to start your next great business idea? Wanting to catch up with friends and family? Or simply wanting to try a new cup of coffee and homemade food? Then you’re in for a real treat on this episode of Boston’s Best!

This week, I am talking with Bonnie Souza, Founder of Pink Bean Coffee. Pink Bean Coffee provides organic coffees and whole quality, healthful foods and serves as a meeting place for gatherings and events that bring people together. Located in Somerset, Pink Bean offers a variety of organic coffee, breakfast & lunch options, smoothies, and vegan and gluten-free choices as well. Not to mention, Pink Bean won Best Specialty Coffee Drink in the Southcoast Almanac.

Today, Bonnie, joined with her wife, Sandy, share what it was like in the early days of Pink Bean Coffee. We discuss the importance of understanding the ins and outs of your business, why partner contracts are essential to the vision and mission of the business, and what it means to be open to new opportunities. Bonnie nods to pioneering through Covid-19 and how they were able to stay afloat social distancing mandates. Both Bonnie and Sandy also talk about their ideas for the future and why business decisions need to come from your heart and soul.

Topics Discussed:

Challenges faced early on while testing in multiple farmers markets
Why knowing every aspect of your business is essential to success
Creating an inviting, welcoming space for customers to enjoy themselves
Being open to possibilities and not putting limits on potential success
Why business decisions should come from you and not from outside opinions

Connect with Pink Bean Coffee:

Website: https://www.thepinkbeancoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepinkbean/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinkbeancoffee/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/bonniejoy123/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thepinkbean_

Relevant Articles:

The Pink Bean Opens in Somerset - https://www.southcoasttoday.com/special/20180801/pink-bean-opens-in-somerset

Contact Pink Bean Coffee:

Address: 202 Slades Ferry Ave, Somerset, MA 02726
Call: 508-590-9369
Email: bonnie.souzaj@thepinkbeancoffee.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Booking your 2022 wedding and looking for a unique set to play at your reception? Needing a last minute band to play at your holiday work party? Or just simply wanting to add a little bit of “wow factor” to your next private event? Then Young Love and The Thrills is for you!

This week, I am talking with Andy Wesby, Owner, Manager, and Performer of Young Love and The Thrills. Young Love and the Thrills is a Boston Wedding and Party Band consisting of eight members, and has collectively toured both nationally and internationally. With over 500 weddings and numerous awards under their belt, it’s no wonder people want to book Young Love and The Thrills for their own wedding, private, and corporate events!

In this episode, Andy shares his passion for music and how he went from touring in 2010, managing and rebranding Young Love and The Thrills in 2013, to now touring roughly 50 weddings a year. We discuss why the wedding industry is breaking away from tradition, how the global pandemic impacted the wedding industry, and what Andy considers professional success.

Topics Discussed:

Hardships faced in the wedding industry during Covid-19
Misconceptions around wedding bands and music entertainment
How the wedding industry has changed over the past decade
Why college isn’t necessary to have a successful career

Connect with Young Love and The Thrills:

Website: https://www.youngloveandthethrills.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoungLoveAndTheThrills/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngloveandthethrills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGwY85joBqA

Relevant Articles:

The Knot - Young Love and The Thrills - https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/young-love-and-the-thrills-boston-ma-611983

Contact Young Love and The Thrills:

Address: 209 Savin Hill Ave, Boston, MA 02125
Call: 917-667-1596
Email: youngloveandthethrills@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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When it comes to Real Estate, you never know what type of transaction you’ll get on any given week. From studio apartments to 50-Unit buildings, Boston has its own diverse set of needs.

This week, I am talking with Matt Ramey, Owner of Concept Properties. Concept Properties is a Boutique Real Estate Company located in Boston’s South End. With nearly a decade of experience working with investors and sellers in the Boston real estate market, Matt’s knowledge of the Boston zoning codes allows him to identify underutilized properties that have development potential and has assisted in bringing these projects to market. Whether you’re a Seller, Buyer, or Investor, Concept Properties is a Real Estate resource you can trust.

In this episode, Matt shares how he went from touring with Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps to attending Berklee College of Music, to focusing on Real Estate in Boston. We discuss the Real Estate industry from a Sellers, Buyers, and Investors perspective as well as the importance of asking for advice when you don’t have the answers. Be sure to stay tuned as Matt also shares his invention and patent of the Hanging Container Lid Assembly US patent No. 10,486,871!

Topics Discussed:

Early challenges faced within the first year of the company
Utilizing a hybrid of Zoom and in-person meetings for meeting clients
How time management skills help you successfully grow your business
The power in seeking advice from industry experts
Defining success as a constant, daily growth
Why you should be fully involved & learn core aspects of your business

Connect with Concept Properties:

Website: https://conceptre.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConceptPropertiesBoston/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conceptpropertiesboston/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/mattrameyig/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConceptBoston
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-ramey-concept/

Relevant Articles:

Better Business Bureau - Concept Properties: https://www.bbb.org/us/ma/boston/profile/real-estate/concept-properties-0021-236422

Contact Concept Properties:

Address: 661 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Call: 617-514-0628
Email: matt@conceptre.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Looking for a place to connect with old colleagues? Need a night to unwind with your spouse? Or wanting to hang out with your best pals over some craft beers? Then you’ll love this week’s featured small business!

This week, I am talking with Paul Gentile, Co-Owner of Gentile Brewing Company, alongside his wife, Christen. Gentile Brewing Company is a Family-Owned and Operated Nano Craft Brewery located in Beverly, MA. What makes Gentile Brewing Co. unique is that not only are they the first Craft Beer Taproom in Beverly, they are also dog friendly!

In this episode, Paul shares his entrepreneurial journey from homebrewing to meeting his wife at a New Years Eve party, to entering the craft beer industry and later opening his own brewery. Paul shares the importance of collaborating with those in his community and why the focus has always been on cultivating a family-friendly environment. Be sure to listen in as Paul shares the ups and downs of the brewing industry, what he would tell his 18-year-old self, and why passion is essential to owning a business, no matter the industry.

Topics Discussed:

Why the “more is more” mentality draws people into the craft beer industry
Early challenges faced being the first craft beer taproom in Beverly, MA
Learning curves behind attaining operating certifications early on
The importance of creating an open community for friends and family alike
Recognizing passion as the main driving force for entrepreneurship

Connect with Gentile Brewing Company:

Website: https://gentilebrewing.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gentilebrewingco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gentilebrewing/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GentileBrewing
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-gentile-84b7ab82/

Relevant Articles:

Yelp Reviews - Gentile Brewing Co. https://www.yelp.com/biz/gentile-brewing-beverly

Contact Gentile Brewing Company:

Address: 59 Park St #1, Beverly, MA 01915
Call: 978-969-6496
Email: gentilebrewingcompany@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Looking for the perfect gifts for your bridal party? Wanting to add a little more rustic decor to your modern-day farmhouse? Needing to spruce up your home decor for the holidays? Then you’re in the right place! This week’s highlighted company specializes in quality, American craftsmanship and was founded on love, “where family and team aren’t just words… they are a way of life”.

This week, I am talking with Melanie and Brian O’Neil, Husband and Wife Co-Founders of Rustic Marlin. Located in Coastal MA, Rustic Marlin creates premium quality, hand-crafted home decor for everyone and every occasion. Rustic Marlin prides themselves in using real solid wood, premium textiles and on being handcrafted in the USA.

In this episode, Melanie and Brian share how their wedding day paved the way for Rustic Marlin, what it truly means to be an Entrepreneur, and lessons they’ve learned along the way. Both Melanie and Brian open up about the hardships of entrepreneurship, why rapid growth can be detrimental to organic growth, and why they love what they do.

Topics Discussed:

The hard truths behind Entrepreneurship
Focusing on slow progress vs. rapid growth
Why “Scalability” is essential to growing your business
Recognizing the importance of relationships over sales
When to say “No” in order to say “Yes” to better opportunities

Connect with Rustic Marlin:

Website: https://www.rusticmarlin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rusticmarlin/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rusticmarlin/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/melanierusticmarlin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanieoneil/

Relevant Articles:

Rustic Marlin in Hanover Named One of Fastest Growing Companies in America https://hanover.wickedlocal.com/news/20181002/rustic-marlin-in-hanover-named-one-of-fastest-growing-companies-in-america

Contact Rustic Marlin:

Address: 389 Columbia Rd, Hanover, MA 02339
Call: 508-376-1004
Email: melanie@rusticmarlin.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Every custom, one-off batch of beer has a unique backstory. Whether it’s a recipe designed to pair with the music of a local band, a pair of beers brewed for a wedding to represent the happy couple, or a brew made to honor the memory of a beloved past pet, this week’s featured Brewery represents the people in their community.

This week, I am talking with Liz and Jared Kiraly, Owners of Bone Up Brewing Company. Bone Up Brewing Company is an American Farmhouse Brewery located in Scenic Everett, MA, using local, quality ingredients. Bone Up Brewing is inspired by the Belgian farmhouse brewing tradition and crafts modern interpretations of classic styles. Bone Up creates beers that are balanced and approachable at face value, but will reward the drinker with subtle complexity upon closer inspection.

Liz and Jared met over a shared love of good beer and have been brewing together ever since. With Jared’s 15-year brewing experience and Liz’s 10-year marketing and brand building expertise, this dynamic duo makes the perfect team for Bone Up.

In this episode, Liz and Jared share how they started Bone Up, the meaning behind the name, and the importance of creating lasting memories for their community. Jared shares setbacks and challenges behind starting the brewery from lack of equipment to thriving during a Global Pandemic. Liz also shares the importance of community and why strong relationships helped them through many challenges faced.

Topics Discussed:

Building the brand’s story behind “Bone Up”
Creative vision behind aligning brews with local music
Using custom, craft beers to create lasting memories
Challenges and setbacks behind starting a brewery
Why making good beer is the bare minimum behind success
The silver lining behind Covid-19 & how it changed business (for the better)

Connect with Bone Up Brewing Company:

Website: https://www.boneup.beer/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boneupbrewing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boneupbrewing/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BoneUpBrewing

Relevant Articles:

Boston Magazine: Drink This Now: Bone Up Brewing Co. -

https://www.bostonmagazine.com/restaurants/2016/06/23/drink-this-now-bone-up-brewing-2016/

Contact Bone Up Brewing Company:

Address: 38 Norman St, Everett, MA 02149
Call: 781-691-9092
Email: info@boneup.beer

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with David Huddleston, Owner of Huddleston Homes. Huddleston Homes is a boutique, Boston based, property management firm committed to providing personalized care to each of their clients. As a family owned and operated company, Huddleston Homes treats each property as if it were their own.

In this episode, David shares how he got started in property management and the hard work it takes to be an entrepreneur. From playing gigs under his band, “Biscuits and Gravy” to real estate and property management, David recognizes the importance of establishing strong relationships with both his clients and his business partners. We talk about routine, future goals for Huddleston Homes, and why education is important for both personal and professional growth.

Topics Discussed:

The difference in taking a Proactive vs. Reactive approach in business
Why continual education is key to becoming a successful entrepreneur
Navigating hardships of Property Management through Covid-19
Why businesses should focus on relationships rather than sales
Challenges and sacrifices made in early entrepreneurship

Connect with Huddleston Homes:

Website: https://www.huddlestonhomesllc.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.huddleston.982
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-huddleston-51a37062/

Contact Huddleston Homes:

Address: Somerville, MA
Call: 617-418-9276
Email: david@huddlestonhomesllc.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with my friend and Owner of Vagabond Way Fitness, Kevin O’Malley. Vagabond Fitness is a “fitness community dedicated to ongoing learning, continued improvement, constant support, and the achievement of health and fitness goals” located in Easton, MA.

From teaching third grade, training fitness groups in a one-car garage, to one-on-one coaching in the gym, Kevin believes in always bettering yourself, both physically and mentally. He also founded a 501c3 non-profit, Guardians of the Streets, where he focuses on guiding the communities on addiction, mental health, and homelessness as an opportunity to better themselves.

In this episode, Kevin shares why he believes one-on-one personal training is better for both the coach and the client. While group fitness classes can be beneficial, Kevin recognizes that each individual has specific needs and it’s important to address them head on. We also talk about the way Kevin approaches fitness and why it’s important to lean into your own intuition and follow your gut despite what others may think.

Topics Discussed:

Early challenges faced while starting a personal gym
Challenging CrossFit, rethinking fitness, & assessing individuals needs
The difference between Health Athletes vs. Performance Athletes
Why accountability with clients is necessary for personalization
The power of standing out from competition by doing your own thing

Connect with Vagabond Way Fitness:

Website: https://www.vbwayfitness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vbwayfitness/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vbwayfitness/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJIOBpZAxBmldc6XP_69peA

Relevant Articles:

Local Gyms & Fitness - https://www.localgymsandfitness.com/US/South-Easton/150535444990257/Vagabond-Way-Fitness

Contact Vagabond Way Fitness:

Address: 15 Hampden Dr, South Easton, MA 02375
Call: 508-930-8734
Email: Kevin@vbwayfitness.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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If you’re from Boston, then you already know and love this week’s featured business.

This week, I am talking with Paul Delios, Co-Owner, Creative Director, and President of Kane’s Donuts. Kane’s Donuts is a locally owned and family operated gourmet donut shop located in Boston, MA. What started as a simple, Mom-and-Pop shop serving locals in 1955 to now being one of the U.S. Top 10 donut shops, Kane’s Donuts has been a Boston favorite for 66 years.

In this episode, Paul shares the strategy behind changing the business model to meet the desires of a new, younger generation. Paul recognizes the constant change of the food industry and seeks to provide options everyone can love. Since its launch in 2014, Kane's has earned local and national attention for Kane's Gluten Free (KGF), what many consider the best line of gluten-free donuts made by a traditional U.S. donut shop!

Topics Discussed:

Knowing when to shift and pivot in business
Changes, modifications, and challenges in the food industry
Utilizing Random Sampling to ensure the best, quality ingredients
Meeting the needs and desires of the local community
Valuing employees and treating them like family

Connect with Kane’s Donuts:

Website: https://www.kanesdonuts.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kanesdonuts/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kanes_donuts/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/paul_delios/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-delios-4697a523/

Relevant Articles:

Boston’s Favorite Donut Shops -

https://boston.cbslocal.com/2019/06/10/bostons-favorite-donut-shops/

Chronicle 5 WCVB - Donuts: Kane’s Donuts -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=122&v=OoGWcvBfKl0&feature=emb_logo

Contact Kane’s Donuts:

Address: 90 Oliver St, Boston, MA 02110
Call: 857-317-2654
Email: Paul@KanesDonuts.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Family sitting by the pool, ice cold beer in hand, and smoking up brats on the grill. This is what Summers are made of. What could be better? Knowing that your meats are fresh, local, and good for you.

This week, I am talking with Art Welch, Owner of Pig Rock Sausages. Pig Rock Sausages produces chef & restaurant made quality sausages located in Boston, MA. With over 20 different flavors of sausages, they focus on using fresh, quality ingredients to produce the highest quality line of sausages. Their "secret" ingredient? They do not include any additives or preservatives.

In this episode, Art shares what it was like being a chef for many years and helping open twelve restaurants. Art also created his own line of barbecue sauces which led to creating Pig Rock Sausages. His “What’s Next” attitude proves that Art is an entrepreneur at heart. We also discuss the importance of setting goals, both professionally and personally, and why success is often measured by happiness.

Topics Discussed:

The importance of choosing Quality Ingredients
Why “Boots on the Ground”, Organic Marketing is essential
Playing around with food and mixing “Out of the Box” flavors
Setting Realistic, Year-to-Year Goals
Why you need to ask questions to ensure success
Misconceptions behind the sausage industry

Connect with Pig Rock Sausages:

Website: https://www.pigrocksausages.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pigrocksausages/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pigrocksausages/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/art-welch-b203786/

Relevant Articles:

Edible Boston - Edible Food Finds: Pig Rock Sausages -https://www.edibleboston.com/blog/2020/9/28/edible-food-finds-pig-rock-sausages

Contact Pig Rock Sausages:

Address: 135 Newmarket Square, Boston, MA 02118
Call: 781-285-5902
Email: art@pigrocksausages.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with Jorge Aurichi, Founder & Owner of Level Five Painting. Level Five Painting, LLC. is an interior/exterior residential and commercial painting company that provides interior painting, exterior painting, wallpaper services, and light carpentry work for the West Newton, MA area. Level Five Painting strives to provide every client with excellent work, making it a pleasant and unique experience in every project.

In this episode, Jorge shares with us the importance of establishing strong relationships with both your employees and your clients. Jorge also emphasizes the importance of organic growth and word-of mouth-marketing as a way of establishing trust with clients. Not only is it important to ensure trust but treating people as people is essential to both business partnerships and personal relationships. We also discuss changes in the commercial & residential painting industry and how technology is changing the game for future business.

Topics Discussed:

Understanding your core values & aligning people with those core values
Challenges faced in the paint industry
Finding the balance between Type A & B Personalities
The importance of establishing trust in both employees and clients
Recognizing the important things and not sweating the small stuff
The many layers behind interior/exterior finishes
How technology is changing the residential & commercial painting industry
Creating a social presence behind social media through organic reach
Recognizing changing priorities in both your professional & personal life

Connect with Level 5 Painting:

Website: https://www.levelfivepaintingllc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/level5pntgllc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/level5pntgllc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorge-aurichi-9316574b/

Relevant Articles:

Level Five Painting - Yelp https://www.yelp.com/biz/level-five-painting-west-newton

Contact Level 5 Painting:

Address: 950 Watertown St, Suite #6, West Newton, MA 02465
Call: 617-869-9446
Email: JAurichi@levelfivepaintingllc.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

With over 200,000 cannolis hand made daily (with room to grow!) and holding the world record for world’s largest cannolo (the singular of cannoli) of 300-lbs and 12-ft long, it’s no secret that my guest this week has a competitive spirit and a strong familial bond.

This week, I am talking with Valerie Bono, Co-Owner and Chief Sales & Marketing Officer of Golden Cannoli. Golden Cannoli is a second generation family owned cannoli factory based in Chelsea MA. They make cannoli shells, cannoli chips and cannoli fillings. For over 50 years they've been industry leaders in quality, innovation and customer service.

In this episode, Valerie shares what it was like transitioning from learning about business in college to then becoming the Co-Owner of her family’s cannoli business. We discuss how the cannoli industry sets itself apart from other pastries and baked goods, what it means to set the bar high for customer satisfaction, and how Golden Cannoli is simply just getting started.

Be sure to tune into this week’s episode of Boston’s Best and don’t forget to celebrate National Cannoli Day on June 16th!

Topics Discussed:

The importance of diversifying business to ensure future success
The “secret sauce” behind customer and brand loyalty
Establishing a rigid, yet flexible schedule on a daily basis
Creative and innovative ways of Reengineering cannolis over 50 years
Learning to have fun and loving what you do

Connect with Golden Cannoli:

Website: https://shop.goldencannoli.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoldenCannoli/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldencannoli/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/vab4747/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vab4747/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mr_pA7uVtIA

Relevant Articles:

Chelsea's Golden Cannoli Being Served Across America: Made in Mass. -https://www.wcvb.com/article/chelsea-s-golden-cannoli-being-served-across-america-made-in-mass/24418704

Contact Golden Cannoli:

Address: 99 Crescent Ave, Chelsea, MA 02150
Call: 617-868-2826
Email: valerie@goldencannoli.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Whether you’ve attended a friend's wedding or had a wedding of your own, you know that the music vibe can absolutely make or break a wedding experience. No matter the genre of music, it’s important to know how to create a magical experience for not only the Bride and Groom but for the guests as well.

This week, I am talking with Dane Leveton, Professional DJ, MC and Owner of Levitate Weddings. Levitate Weddings provides an all inclusive, premier wedding planning experience, located in Danvers, MA. Dane has been a top DJ and MC for over 20 years and was actually the DJ at my own wedding.

In this episode, Dane shares the artistry behind perfecting the “Start and Stop” transition to keep the music and vibe going, how to keep the crowd moving, and the power of easy listening, intimate music before the dance floor opens up. Even when Dane isn’t DJing or MCing events, he is still pursuing his other passions and recognizes the power of pursuing your most ambitious goals.

Topics Discussed:

Differences between a Wedding DJ and Turntable DJ
The artistry behind Beat-Mixing and Genre-Bending
How the Wedding Industry community collaborated during Covid-19
Why video is an essential part of remembering your Big Day
How DJing is more about provoking emotion rather than just a skill
Reading the crowd and knowing how and when to open up the dance floor
Understanding the Music Theory behind mixing songs
Instilling a passion for music for future generations
The importance of following your passions

Connect with Levitate Weddings:

Website: http://levitateweddings.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LevitateWeddings/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/levitateweddings/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtkaRbRa1FU

Relevant Articles:

Find Glocal - Levitate Weddingshttp://www.findglocal.com/US/Danvers/106793830801350/Levitate-Weddings

Contact Levitate Weddings:

Address: 10 Garden St, Danvers, MA 01923
Call: 978-836-0257
Email: Dane@LevitateWeddings.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Leveraging strong relationships with your clients and fellow colleagues is one of the best marketing tools you can have in your business. My guest this week recognizes the power of relationship building and why it’s essential for both the company and the community alike.

This week, I am talking with Derek Heltzel, Partner with Standard Title & Escrow. Standard Title & Escrow provides representation to buyers and sellers of real estate, as well as banks and mortgage companies. As they strive to provide the most wholesome representation available, they guide their clients through every step of the closing process, from negotiating the Purchase & Sale Agreement, to reviewing the final closing documents.

In this episode, Derek shares with us the story behind their signature “red” color scheme and why Tiffany & Co. inspired their “concierge” service for their clients. As we discuss goal setting and the future of Standard Title & Escrow, Derek reminds us that it’s in the small, daily action that creates the most impact. When you focus on the small, bite-sized successes, you begin to see the long term success come into fruition.

Topics Discussed:

Leveraging strong relationships with Realtors and Mortgage Officers
Why partnering as a team vs. individual in a business brings more to the table
The Marketing and Branding behind their signature “Red” color scheme
What it means to be the “Tiffany & Co.” of Real Estate
Social Media and Referrals as the bread and butter of Marketing

Connect with Standard Title & Escrow:

Website: https://www.standardclosing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standardclosing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standard.title/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekheltzel/

Contact Standard Title & Escrow:

Address: 100 Corporate Pl Suite 505, Peabody, MA 01960
Call: 877-508-4853
Email: Derek@standardclosing.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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When starting a business, no matter the industry, it’s important to recognize how you can meet a need, fill in a gap, and/or fulfill a demand. My guest this week is able to meet the needs of her community, fill in a gap for Non-Profit organizations, and fulfill a demand to help women and girls find financial freedom in the Greater Boston area.

This week, I am talking with Christina Gordon, CEO at Women’s Foundation of Boston. Women’s Foundation of Boston “is a registered 501(c)(3) that economically empowers Greater Boston women and girls through funding high impact leadership and economic programs in partnership with nonprofits serving solely women and girls”.

In this episode, Christina shares how the Women’s Foundation of Boston helps women and girls feel empowered through their careers and finances, as well as leadership and education opportunities. Although Covid-19 took a toll on many businesses and communities, the Women's Foundation of Boston was able to raise over half a million dollars and give back to over 6,000 women and girls through the Global Pandemic.

Topics Discussed:

The importance of filling a gap in business and nonprofit
Why Intentionality should be the driving force behind creating an impact
Defining “Mission Creep” in NonProfit Organizations
Understanding Market Research through database research
Creating a roadmap for Sustainability
How Covid-19 created space for Nonprofits to flourish

Connect with Women’s Foundation of Boston:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wfboston/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wfboston/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-gordon-07767932/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WFBoston

Relevant Article(s):

Women’s Foundation of Boston Announces 2020 Grant Winners -

https://boston.citybizlist.com/article/641662/womens-foundation-of-boston-announces-2020-grant-winners

Contact Women’s Foundation of Boston:

Address: 126 Brookline Ave 3rd floor, Boston, MA 02215
Call: 617-262-5911
Email: cgordon@wfboston.org

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with Janelle Driscoll, Co-Founder of JJ Media. JJ Media is a modern day public relations company focusing on media, marketing and management services.

Their mission is to “lead businesses and individuals through today's ever-changing media industry with a fresh approach to public relations and marketing needs''. Janelle shares how their strong relationships and determination helps them stay ahead of industry trends and is the key to their success and drives results for their clients.

In this episode, Janelle shares the importance of remaining creative and innovative during a global pandemic and why it’s essential to learn to trust the process. Janelle goes on to say that one of the best brand marketing strategies is brand collaboration. Working alongside local businesses in your community, even outside of your “industry”, is a game changer when it comes to strategic, out-of-the-box thinking.

Topics Discussed:

Recognizing strengths and weaknesses as a team
Cultivating a healthy work-life balance
Getting creative with brands and their goal setting
Brand collaboration as brand marketing
Learning to be open to the changes of life
Why happiness and success go hand in hand
Enjoying the small things life

Connect with JJ Media:

Website: https://jjmediallc.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JJMediaUSA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjmedia/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/jpdrisc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelledriscoll

Contact JJ Media:

Call: 774-217-0003
Email: janelle@jjmediallc.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Your childhood dog or newly-adopted cat is more than just a pet, they’re your closet companions. Which is why they deserve the best treatment and care.

This week, I am talking with Dr. Brian Bourquin, founder of Boston Veterinary Clinic. Boston Veterinary Clinic is a full-service, primary care veterinary clinic located in historic Bay Village serving dogs and cats in Greater Boston, MA. This state-of-the-art veterinary clinic provides compassionate, fear-free veterinary care for their patients and trusted, relationship-focused services to their clients.

Throughout our conversation, Dr. Bourquin shares how he and his husband started Boston Veterinary Clinic and the importance of establishing a “Fear Free” atmosphere. By serving both clients and their companions, Brian creates a fun, safe, and open community that families know and love. Whether it’s promotional free-donut days, specialty animal treats, or dog leash giveaways, Boston Veterinary Clinic knows how to create an environment where animals are begging to get in.

Topics Discussed:

The process behind starting Boston’s first “Fear Free” vet clinic
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in veterinary medicine
The importance of collaborating with local community
Continuously growing and learning from past experiences
Establishing a strong, happy, and well-educated staff
Misconceptions of the veterinary industry

Connect with Boston Veterinary Clinic:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonVeterinary/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonveterinaryclinic/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/brianbourquin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bourquin-3356a6/
Website: https://www.bostonveterinary.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb&utm_term=website

Contact Boston Veterinary Clinic:

Address: 363 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116
Call: 857-362-8672
Email: dr.brian@bostonveterinary.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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With names like “Laser Cat” and “Light Runner”, it’s no surprise my guest this week knows how to stand out from the crowd.

This week, I am talking with Keith Sullivan, Co-Owner of Medusa Brewing Company. Medusa Brewing Company is a Brewery and Taproom located in Hudson, MA, and is one of the first breweries to open with a taproom in 2015. Their handcrafted beer utilizes time-honored methodology and the finest natural ingredients from around the world.

Throughout our conversation, Keith talks in-depth about the major sweat equity poured into Medusa Brewing Co. as well as the setbacks in the contracting and financial phase of getting started. We also discuss the effectiveness of keeping marketing clean and simple but also diversifying from competition to create a unique customer experience.

Topics Discussed:

The major sweat equity of getting a business up & running by yourself
Unique challenges & setbacks through contracting and finances
Why clean and simple marketing is the most effective marketing
Learning how to keep your identity and authenticity through social media
Shifting and Pivoting through multiple challenges during a global pandemic

Connect with Medusa Brewing Company:

Website: https://www.medusabrewing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/medusabrewing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/medusabrewing/

Relevant Article(s):

Medusa Brewery Takes Gold at the ‘Olympics of Brewing’

https://www.wbjournal.com/article/medusa-brewery-takes-gold-at-the-olympics-of-brewing

Contact Medusa Brewing Company:

Address: 111 Main St, Hudson, MA 01749
Call: (978) 310-1933
Email: SALES@MEDUSABREWING.COM

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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It’s no surprise that my guest this week has a passion for art and creativity. Even when she's off the clock, she is still working with her hands. Whether it’s building things at home or getting crafty in the kitchen, my guest adds a fun and unique flair to all that she creates.

This week, I am talking with Erin Erler, Owner & Cake Artist of Cakes By Erin, a custom Cake business located in Haverhill, MA. At Cakes by Erin, they pride themselves on three things: “originality, quality, and customer service”. They strive to create the most unique, delicious, and 100% NUT FREE cakes for all your occasions and celebrations.

Throughout our conversation, Erin shares with us how she went from a cake side gig while teaching at her kids school to opening a shop in 2010 due to high demand. Being a completely self-taught baker, Erin has won three Food Network competitions, designed a cake for the Boston Red Sox and has baked cakes for celebrities like Adam Sandler. Erin also shares with us how COVID-19 impacted her business as well as her physical health after recovering from a covid-induced stroke.

Topics Discussed:

From side-gig cakes to successfully running a cake business for over a decade
Why flexibility is essential for entrepreneurship
How COVID-19 impacted her business and personal life
The importance of having fun and loving what you do
The planning process behind designing cakes
Saying “yes” to unique and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities
The power of marketing through radio
Not being afraid to try new and creative things in business

Connect with Cakes By Erin:

Website: https://www.cakesbyerin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CakesbyErinLLC/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cakesbyerin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-erler-0a3887132/

Relevant Article(s):

Cakes By Erin (Yelp) - https://www.yelp.com/biz/cakes-by-erin-haverhill

Contact Cakes By Erin:

Address: 800 Broadway, Haverhill, MA 01832
Call: (978) 469-9136
Email: erinerler@yahoo.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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With a name like “Shovel Town”, you know there is an interesting history behind this local Brewery. What was once a shovel manufacturing plant now turned brewery, my guests this week share their love for craft beer and building a strong community.

This week, I am talking with Frank Altieri and Jim McSherry, Co-Owners of Shovel Town Brewery, a Microbrewery and Taproom located in North Easton, MA.

In our conversation, Frank and Jim share how they started from practicing homebrewing to opening Shovel Town Brewery in 2014. They both discuss the importance of having a strong customer satisfaction and recognizing the importance of community. We discuss how they pivoted through Covid-19 and their future plans of opening another location in early 2022.

When Frank and Jim aren’t working, they both enjoy checking out local breweries and seeing how they can improve their own customer experience.

Topics Discussed:

Why the craft beer industry has gained popularity
Collaborating with a chocolatier to create a unique flavor and experience
The importance of having a strong customer presence and presentation
Unique challenges faced of owning a brewery
Utilizing social media and hosting events to bring awareness
Navigating and pivoting through a global pandemic
Enjoying breweries as a pastime

Connect with Shovel Town Brewery:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shoveltownbrewery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoveltownbrewery/

Relevant Article(s):

Why a Booming Easton Brewery is All the Buzz in Townhttps://www.enterprisenews.com/news/20180524/why-booming-easton-brewery-is-all-buzz-in-town

Contact Shovel Town Brewery:

Address: 50 Oliver St, North Easton, MA 02356
Call: 508-205-7151
Email: frank@shoveltownbrewery.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

What makes a great “beer fest” experience? Is it good times with friends and family? An opportunity to explore all that beer has to offer? A strong sense of camaraderie and community? Or is it a mixture of all three? Our featured MA brewery of the week focuses on combining shared experiences and great company to enjoy a beer with.

This week, I am talking with Dani Babineau, CEO and Co-Founder of Redemption Rock Brewing Company. Redemption Rock Brewing Company is a brewery, taproom, and cafe located in Worcester, MA. With its slogan, “Beer for People”, this brewery is built on the idea that life’s too short not to celebrate great beer and people. Not only does Redemption Rock serve its community through shared experiences and great beer, they are also MA’s, first Certified B Corp Craft Brewery. By giving back to its community, this brewery creates a more inclusive and sustainable economy.

In our conversation, Dani shares how her architect background led her to falling in love with the craft beer industry. As she explains how design and entrepreneurship co-exist in the craft beer industry, she also shares how creativity and trying new things allows her the opportunity to have fun outside of work. We also discuss the unique challenges faced during Covid-19 and her future plans for business as she prepares for her wedding in October.

Topics Discussed:

Common misconception(s) of the craft beer industry
The creative process behind naming craft beers
Early challenges and successes of business
Why competition great for the craft beer industry
Venturing out with different flavors
Experiencing beer in fun and creative ways

Connect with Redemption Rock Brewing Company:

Website: https://www.redemptionrock.beer/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redemptionrockbrewingco/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/rr_brewingco/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/danibabs8/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danibabineau/

Relevant Article(s):

Redemption Rock Brewing Co. Becomes Mass’s First Certified Benefit Corporation Craft Brewery - https://www.brewbound.com/news/redemption-rock-brewing-co-becomes-masss-first-certified-benefit-corporation-craft-brewery/

Contact Redemption Rock Brewing Company:

Address: 333 Shrewsbury St, Worcester, MA 01604
Call: 774-530-6958
Email: dani@redemptionrock.beer

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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When you think of promotional materials, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Fancy fountain pens or water bottles with your company’s logo? While these trends may have been popular years ago, my guest this week recognizes that brand recognition is key to building a strong relationship with your clients. It’s time to stop settling for generic ideas and to start thinking outside of the box to create a lasting consumer experience.

This week, I am talking with Chris Faris, Founder & CEO of Boost Productions. Boost Productions is a Global Promotional Product and Branded Merchandise Agency located in Beverly, MA. From being a solopreneur in 2007 to having global employees, Chris has taken the product based industry to a service based business by focusing on deep client relationships. This service model not only has made Boost Productions successful over the years, but has cultivated many friendships along the way.

In our conversation, Chris and I discuss how he has overcome day-to-day challenges in his business, the importance of diversifying your business to stand out from competition, and why showing up and serving your clients first is the most important component to business.

Topics Discussed:

Misconceptions of promotional marketing
Learning how to shift and grow through uncertain times
Navigating through structure and organization to show up as your best self
The importance of constantly educating yourself
Blocking out the noise and showing up for your clients
How technology is going to enhance future opportunity
The importance of finding what you love to do

Connect with Boost Promotions:

Website: https://www.boostpromo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BoostPromoInc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boostpromo/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherfaris/

Contact Boost Promotions:

Address: 100 Cummings Center, Suite 216-G, Beverly, MA 01915
Call: 978-283-0024
Email: chris.faris@boostpromo.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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This week, I am talking with Kaity Cimo and Katharine ReQua, Co-Founders of For Now,

located in Boston, MA. Voted Boston's Best for Retail Innovation, For Now is a retail incubator that makes it easy to shop and support tomorrow’s entrepreneurs.

Both Kaity and Katharine focus on being a launchpad for upcoming brands and entrepreneurs as they serve 20-25 different vendors every few months. Their model focuses on cultivating relationships to drive business to everyone involved.

In our conversation, both Kaity and Katharine share their passion for entrepreneurship and what it means to depend on a strong community. Although they’ve faced challenges along the way, from not getting the key to their building until the day before their Grand Opening to canceling their Women’s Summit days into a Global Pandemic, For Now has maintained its commitment to serving its community.

Be sure to tune in as both Kaity and Katharine share what success means to them and why they wake up every day loving what they do.

Topics Discussed:

Balancing various roles in entrepreneurship
Learning to shift, pivot, and adapt quickly through change
Cultivating strong relationships with customers & vendors
Common myths of the retail industry

Connect with For Now:

Website: https://itsfornow.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/its.fornow
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its.fornow/
LinkedIn (Katy Cimo): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitymaloneycimo/
LinkedIn (Katharine ReQua): https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-requa-5a953725/

Contact For Now:

Address: 68 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02210
Call: 857-233-4639
Email: info@itsfornow.com

Relevant Articles:

“For Now Female Founders Summit”https://femalefounderssummit.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

Picture this. You’re on a virtual conference call with your company, discussing financial goals for 2021. Then, Lebron James hops on the Zoom call for a virtual meet-and-greet. Or the cast of The Greatest Showman serenades you in song. While many people dream of meeting their favorite athletes or musicians, for some, this can be a reality.

This week, I am talking with Brandon Gilson, Owner of The Best Seats VIP Concierge, a Premiere Corporate Entertainment Concierge, headquartered in Boston, MA. TBSVIP serves over 10,000 clients globally by creating unique and customized experiences with exclusive VIP access. By focusing on out-of-the-box, Big Picture thinking, it’s evident that Brandon’s greatest passion is to create relationships and provide unforgettable experiences.

We explore misconceptions about the “experience” industry, how he has shifted and pivoted through creating virtual experiences during COVID-19, and how he is leveling up when the world resumes live, in-person events. As we explore taking the “unconventional” route in entrepreneurship, Brandon's biggest advice is to explore different opportunities. He shares that post-college students often believe the lie that they have to stay in their current position. By getting out of your comfort zone and focusing on creating strong relationships, you create your own reality.

Topics Discussed:

Common misconceptions of the industry
Maximizing relationships and partnerships
Learning to say “no” to create better opportunities
Pivoting to virtual experiences during COVID-19
The importance of family and traveling out of your comfort zone
The unconventional route in your professional and personal life

Connect w/ TBSVIP:

Website:https://thebestseatsvip.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheBestSeatsVIP
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thebestseats/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/b_gilson/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-gilson-6386102b/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/TheBestSeatsVIP

Contact Brandon Gilson:

Call: 781-201-0347
Email: brandon@thebestseatsvip.com

Relevant Articles:

“Meet Brandon Gilson of The Best Seats VIP”, Boston Voyagerhttp://bostonvoyager.com/interview/meet-brandon-gilson-best-seats-vip-boston/

Connect w/ Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk bout their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Does a man make a suit or does a suit make a man?

This week, I am talking with Marc Streisand, Owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothier, located in both Boston, MA & Providence, RI. Marc Allen Fine Clothier prides themselves in offering what big box stores cannot, a focus on the individual. By taking time to design and build curated collections from the rarest and finest items and fabrics in the world, they offer superior quality, unique style, and elegance for their clients.

While Marc and his team focus on creating a luxury client experience, he also believes in providing value. Selling clothes for money isn’t Marc’s mission when it comes to Fashion and Style. His biggest motivator? Seeing men (and women) find confidence in themselves. Throughout our conversation, it is evident that Marc creates a fun and creative user experience.

Not only does he focus on the client, but he also focuses on his team and giving back to others. As Marc puts it, “My employees don’t work for me, they work with me”. When I asked him how to define success, he shared that the key to success is a healthy work-life balance. While money can buy you nice things, it’s the relationships and experiences that truly outweigh financial gain.

Topics Discussed:

Helping men (and women) build their confidence
Fun and creative ways for the user experience (both on & offline)
Giving back to the community during Covid-19
Earning the trust and credibility of providing value for the client
Misconceptions of the men’s fashion industry
The importance of creating memories with your family

Connect with Marc Allen Fine Clothiers:

Website: https://www.marcalleninc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcallenfineclothiers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcallenfineclothiers/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-streisand-7231b35/

Contact Marc Allen Fine Clothiers:

Call: 917-992-2242
Email: Marc@MarcAllenInc.com

Relevant Articles:

Marc Allen Fine Clothiers - Yelp https://www.yelp.com/biz/marc-allen-clothiers-providence

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Think back to your childhood. What was your favorite drink growing up? For many individuals, chocolate milk was that perfect drink. Paired with donuts for breakfast or cookies for dessert, chocolate milk was a childhood favorite. And while many adults still love the taste, there just aren’t many healthy alternatives. However, our guest this week, former Shark Tank enthusiast, is bringing back your childhood classic. Only this time, even better than before.

This week, I am talking with Manny Lubin, Co-Founder of Slate Milk. Both Manny and his partner, Josh, are changing the way people think and feel about the food and beverage industry. By shifting the way we think about protein, Slate Milk paves the way for healthy chocolate milk alternatives. Their slogan, “Chocolate Milk, But Better” focuses on crafting the perfect recipe for a pre/post-workout drink without all of the added sugars.

Throughout our conversation, Manny shares with us how he and Josh got started and how they created Slate Milk with the purpose of bringing back a childhood favorite. Manny shares the dairy process, how they have prolonged the shelf life, and why protein is no longer only for fitness buffs. We also discuss the various opportunities for better-for-you startups in grocery and convenience stores as well as the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who love what they do.

Topics Discussed:

Controlling the story and creating a visual brand behind Slate Milk
The difference between online marketing and in-store advertising
Learning the process behind driving sales
Changing the way people understand protein
Pros and cons of remote business
The importance of hiring a strong team who enjoys what they do
Why the “something bigger than you” mindset cultivates success

Connect with Slate Milk:

Website: https://slatemilk.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slatemilk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slatemilk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manny-lubin-56329785/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/slatemilk

Contact Slate Milk:

Call: 617-855-1431
Email: manny@slatemilk.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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Construction workers and those in the trades industry are more than grunt workers, they set the firm foundation for friends, families, and businesses to come. In fact, construction workers are the heartbeat of their communities.

This week, I am talking with Mike Haynes, Co-Founder of Haynes Group, a Commercial Construction Management Company located in West Bridgewater, MA. In 2001, Mike and his brother, Bryan, founded The Haynes Group and have widely grown their business with 600+ projects under their belt. By forging long-lasting relationships with each of their clients, it’s no wonder their very first client is still doing business with them after nearly 20 years.

Throughout our conversation, it is evident that Mike and his team’s main goal is to serve their community. With the focus on cultivating strong relationships with their clients, The Haynes Group paves the way for the trades industry. Although they have been operating for nearly 20 years now, they are only getting started. As we discuss the minimal changes to the construction industry over the years, Mike remains hopeful for new opportunities through the ever changing technology advancements.

Topics Discussed:

Cultivating deep relationships with clientele
The importance of a fun and relaxed office atmosphere
Common misconceptions in the construction industry
The importance of networking in small business
Supporting community through covid-19
Utilizing innovative technology for the trades industry

Connect with The Haynes Group:

Website: https://www.haynesgroupinc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHaynesGroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haynesgroup/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-haynes-2055354/

Contact Haynes Group, Inc.:

Call: 508-230-9494
Email: mike@haynesgroupinc.com

Relevant Articles:

The Blue Book: Haynes Group, Inc. http://www.thebluebook.com/iProView/1026552/haynes-group-inc/general-contractors/

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

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While there are seasons for hustle, it’s not sustainable long-term. Too often entrepreneurs run themselves dry without ever taking time for themselves to simply “think”. Our guest this week, however, is a strong advocate of creating a healthy work-life balance, on and off the clock.

This week, I am talking with Michelle Mercier, Business Strategist Coach, Public Speaker, and the CEO/Founder of Create Honesty, located in Hudson, MA. With 15+ years of corporate and professional experience, Michelle has worked with a wide range of different businesses – from nationally acclaimed nonprofits to Fortune 500 corporations. Her wide range of experience has enabled her to become an expert in leadership, change management, scalability, marketing, and technology.

As we discuss the ins and outs of what it means to be an entrepreneur, we discuss the importance of intentionality. Michelle shares that being intentional with your time helps you focus on what you do best. By simply taking five minutes to meditate daily or leaving room for flexibility in your calendar, this helps you become a top performer in your field. Michelle also shares how a positive money mindset is no longer a “woo woo” saying but more of a lifestyle change. Once we realize that entrepreneurship is a marathon and not a sprint, we are able to pull away from the 24hr hustle mindset.

Topics Discussed:

Establishing a healthy work-life balance to work smarter, not harder
Shifting the way we think about failure
Taking care of your mental and physical health
Leaving room for flexibility in the business framework
Scarcity mindset vs. Abundance mindset
Why you should be diversifying your income streams
Common Misconceptions of Businesses Coaches

Connect with Michelle Mercier:

Website: https://www.createhonesty.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createhonesty
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/createhonesty/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merciermichelle/

Additional Resources:

Mooring Advisory Group - https://www.mooringadvisorygroup.com/blogs/2019/4/19/knoteworthy-michelle-mercier-create-honesty

Contact Create Honesty:

Call: 978-293-5060
Email: mmercier@createhonesty.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

Think back to your office holiday parties, promotional celebrations, and the various business milestones. From celebrating the big wins to recognizing all the hard work, your company deserves to make a toast to honor your brand.

This week, I am talking with Sophia D'Angelo, Founder & CEO of Boston Experiential Group, about creating unforgettable experiences for both private businesses and big corporate companies. Sophia shares her background in Brand & Experiential Marketing and how working for Samuel Adams jump started her solo career. By making strong connections during her first year of business, Sophia was able to massively expand her business simply through word-of-mouth referrals.

From private dinner celebrations to lavish Gatsby-Style parties, Sophia has done it all. As we discuss what business was like pre-COVID, Sophia shares how she has since pivoted in the digital world. Until traveling the country and hosting big parties becomes the social norm again, Sophia has shifted the focus to bringing these unique experiences online. Through creative ideas such as cooking and cocktail classes to DIY candle making, Sophia has helped businesses from all over celebrate life’s greatest moments.

Topics Discussed:

Why loving your career is essential to your overall success
Establishing a balanced work routine
Recognizing when to outsource responsibilities
Creating a consumer experience outside of product sales
Learning curve(s) of hosting virtual experiences
How building connections creates future opportunities

Connect with Sophia D'Angelo:

Website: https://www.bostonexperientialgroup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonExperientialGroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/begevents/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiaadangelo/

Contact Boston Experiential Group:

Call: 609-658-3021
Email: sophia@begevents.com
Address: 599 E. Broadway, Boston, MA 02127

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am talking with Kristie Dean, Founder of The Soul Project and the Photographer behind Kristie Rae Images. Kristie has a heart for empowering women through honest storytelling. By giving women a platform to share their raw and vulnerable stories, Kristie uses photography to connect women on their soul journeys.

When it comes to leaning into your unique gifts, Kristie advocates for sticking to your “special sauce”. By honing your skills and using your gifts, you begin to create a life that allows you to use your strengths everyday. As we discuss comparison in business, Kristie also shares that by doing what lights you up from the beginning, you begin to find your voice.

Throughout our conversation, Kristie’s biggest passion is evident in changing the “highlight reel” narrative from social media by utilizing empowering imagery and raw storytelling. By focusing on real-life experiences, Kristie’s creativity shines through. The fuel for this passion? Cultivating strong relationships through open and honest communication.

Topics Discussed:

The fine line between a hobbyist and an entrepreneur
Being flexible with your gifts and learning to pivot in changing times
Incorporating creativity into mundane tasks
Why strong relationships are essential to building businesses
Giving back to the world through your unique, individual strengths
Releasing the need for other people’s approval.

Connect with Kristie Dean

Website: http://kristieraeimages.blogspot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristieraeimages/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristieraeimages/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristie-dean-45506532/

Learn More About The Soul Project:

Website: https://www.thesoulproject.co/
Blog: https://www.thesoulproject.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesoulprojectstories
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulprojectstories/

Contact Kristie Dean:

Call: (617) 842-5747
Email: kristieraephoto@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BostonsBestPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonsbest_podcast/

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

This week, I am talking with Will Nitze, CEO and Founder of IQ Bar. Unlike other protein bars, IQ Bars follow virtually every diet under the sun. By utilizing plant protein as its main source of energy, this benefits both body and brain health.

But what led to creating this crash-free energy, next-to-no-sugar or carb protein bar? While studying Neuroscience at Harvard, Will discovered his love for Psychology. Having a deeper understanding of how the brain functions, Will set out to create a healthy alternative that strengthens both productivity and wellbeing.

As we discuss the early stages of IQ Bar, Will shares his number one piece of advice for new business owners. According to Will, Information Gathering should be your main priority. Setting your ego aside and asking the "stupid" questions will kickstart your success. Will also shares how social media is changing the brick and mortar industry and why it's important to establish a strong online following. We also discuss the importance of creating your own success by leveraging opportunities.

Topics Discussed:

Leveraging time, money, and resources in entrepreneurship
How intentional research jumpstarts your success
Strengthening your Proof of Concept for your products
Social Media creating opportunity for brick and mortar stores
Dispelling the myths behind nutritional bars
The Psychology of Brand Awareness

Connect with IQ Bar:

Website: https://www.eatiqbar.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatiqbar/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatiqbar/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-nitze/

Relevant Articles:

What Is IQ Bar and What Makes It Different to Other Protein Bars?https://veganliftz.com/iq-bar-review/

Contact IQ Bar:

Address: 21 Drydock Ave, Boston, MA 02210
Call: 202-834-1086
Email: will@eatiqbar.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

View Details

If you’re in the Massachusetts area & are dreaming of renovating your home, then look no further. Our guest this week specializes in creative design and flourishes on looking at the “Big Picture” through a holistic approach.

This week, I am talking with Lori Korn, owner of Korn Interiors. Korn Interiors is a commercial and residential design firm in Concord, Massachusetts. It was founded in 2005 to address a scarcity of full service interior firms in Concord & the surrounding communities. Through our conversation, Lori shares her entrepreneurial journey and how she has adapted and pivoted her business over the past decades.

From living in the Midwest to attending Graduate school in London to now owning Korn Interiors in Massachusetts, Lori has quite a colorful background. Lori shares how her love for acting and singing on touring cruise ships opened doors for interior design. In the beginning of her career, Lori explains how she loved to create experiences for children in Pediatric and Dental facilities. Everywhere from airport design to creating an entire jungle experience or young children.

What makes Lori’s creative edge so different from other interior designers is that she’s not afraid to think outside of the box. Gone are the days of simple black and white thinking when it comes to renovating your home. Lori’s passion for creativity and exploration allows her to cultivate a unique experience for each individual.

Topics Discussed:

Exploring creativity & thinking outside of the box
Time management is imperative to a successful business
The power of referral-based marketing
Dispelling the myth that interior design is a luxury service
How hiring an interior designer can save you money
Having fun by taking risks

Connect with Korn Interiors:

Website: http://korninteriors.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KornInteriors
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-glaser-korn-28407b16/
Houzz Portfolio:https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/korn-interiors-pfvwus-pf~1511737182

Contact Korn Interiors:

Call: 617-855-8030
Email: lori@korninteriors.com

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

Contact Mark Condon:

Call: (781) 603-3202
Email:bostonsbestpodcast@gmail.com

About Boston's Best:

Highlighting successful businesses in & around Boston, MA

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout Massachusetts. Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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What are the key ingredients to perfecting your craft? According to our guest, consistency, creativity, cultivating an atmosphere that people know and love are what make this Framingham business keep people coming back for more.

This week, I am talking with Luke Foley, Owner of Bourbon’s Kitchen & Cocktails as he shares his entrepreneurial journey and his heart behind serving his community. From charging at the door for local parties in college to now in the hospitality business of serving his community through food, drink, experiences.

The very thing that sets Bourbon’s Kitchen & Cocktails apart from others in the industry is that they “operate a high-level with a casual atmosphere”. When it comes to the customer experience, the atmosphere is what makes or breaks the company. As we discuss the importance of differentiating your business, Luke shares how the “quick-on-your-feet” attitude has helped them pivot and adapt to the many challenges faced during the Global Pandemic.

Topics Discussed:

Why it takes team effort in order to create a strong culture
Differentiating your brand to stand out from competition
Cultivating a strong atmosphere that people love coming back to
Finding inspiration in creative ways researching your craft
Why consistency contributes to success overtime
Adapting to change and learning to stay relevant

Connect with Bourbon’s Kitchen & Cocktails:

Website: https://www.bourbonsframingham.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BourbonsFramingham
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bourbonsframingham/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/mrlukefoley/

Contact Bourbon’s Kitchen & Cocktails:

Call: (508) 861-7997
Email: bourbonsframingham@gmail.com

Additional Resources:

Phantom Gourmet: Bourbon’s Kitchen & Cocktails in Framingham https://boston.cbslocal.com/2017/03/07/bourbons-framingham-phantom-gourmet-400-pizza/

Connect with Mark Condon:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

Contact Mark Condon:

Call: (781) 603-3202
Email: bostonsbestpodcast@gmail.com

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition &how they rose above the inevitable challenges along the way.

View Details

Happy New Year!

We are back after taking a much-needed Holiday break and with a whole new name and vision for this podcast. This show is branching out beyond just the MetroWest area of Massachusetts. “Boston’s Best” is now highlighting businesses outside of the Boston area as we begin 2021!

This week, I am talking with William Consoli of Tony Colella Landscaping. William shares the story behind Tony Colella Landscaping and how it all started from mowing lawns on the weekend to taking the business to the next level. We discuss the importance of setting high standards when it comes to goal setting and how to support the client’s vision.

According to William, a common phrase Tony shares with his team members is that“You can’t have a long-term goal without the short-term goals first”. While we should strive for big goals within our business, it’s important to remember the day-to-day tasks that get us to that point. As we explore what it means to focus on quality rather than quantity, we also dive into the difference between taking shortcuts and truly perfecting the craft of landscaping.

Be sure to listen in as William also shares common myths and misconceptions about the landscaping business and what he and Tony believe is the key to success.

Topics Discussed

The importance of high expectations of quality & low tolerance of shortcuts
Taking quality care of both clientsa their landscaping
The power of referral-based marketing
How Social Media is shaping the success of entrepreneurship
Why you have to set short-term goals before you set long-term goals
Common myths and misconceptions in the landscaping business

Connect with Tony Colella Landscaping

Website: http://tonycolellalandscaping.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tony-Colella-Landscaping-1690735187814558/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonycolellalandscapinginc/

Contact Tony Colella Landscaping

Call: 781-475-7060
Email: TonyColellaLandscaping@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

Contact Mark Condon

Call: (781) 603-3202
Email: bostonsbestpodcast@gmail.com

About Boston’s Best

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of MA.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these business apart from their competition & how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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It’s no secret that what you put out into the world, you receive back into your life. As business owners, this couldn’t be more true. When you take care of your customers, your customers take care of you.

This week, I am talking with Linell Greaney, Co-Founder of RI Motorsports & Detail. Alongside his business partner, John Ryan, they both go the extra mile by focusing on the customer service experience.

Despite the old adage, “don’t sweat the small stuff”, both Linell and John believe that spending extra time on the details is what sets your business apart. By paying close attention to the small details, this has given RI Motorsports & Detail the credibility and validity that they truly care about their community. Instead of chasing dollar signs, both Linell and John go above and beyond to ensure the customer is happy, even if it means working 12-hour shifts.

We discuss how social media has positively impacted business, especially during COVID-19 as well as how to find opportunities amidst the chaos. We also talk about the benefits of owning your own business and how it allows you to be present in other areas of your life.

Be sure to listen in as Linell also shares his views on Law of Attraction and what it means to step outside of your comfort zone to ensure future success.

Topics Discussed

Emphasizing the Customer Service experience
Why you’re never too old to start a new life for yourself
Finding opportunity despite challenges faced during a Global Pandemic
The importance of giving back to your community
The power of social media and local networking
Why attitude and drive creates a positive Law of Attraction

Connect with RI Motorsports & Detail

Website: https://rimotorsports.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rimotorsportsdetail
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rimotorsportsdetail/

Contact RI Motorsports & Detail

Call: 401-692-2031
Email: admin@rimotorsports.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

Through each episode, Mark will find out what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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Are you looking to learn more about investing in Commercial Real Estate? Wanting to make your first investment but don’t know where to start? Our guest this week gives us an inside look on Property Management and how to always come out on top.

This week, I am talking with Aaron Walker, President of Capital Properties & Vice President of Capital Property Management, as we learn the ABC’s of investing in Real Estate. With his background in serving in the Navy and studying Engineering for ten years, Aaron shares what ultimately led him to becoming his own Property Manager.

We discuss the difference(s) between Residential and Commercial Real Estate and why there are less risks involved in purchasing larger properties vs. smaller properties. We also discuss what banks are looking for and how to ensure you get the most out of your investments.

Be sure to listen in as Aaron shares the secret weapon behind his successful career and what has been his most valuable asset!

Topics Discussed

Viewing Patience and Due Diligence as the keys for Success
Challenges faced behind Real Estate Investment
Why studying utility bills helps determine future success
Resources for learning more about commercial Real Estate
Benefits of gathering information from other Industries
How Property Management can make or break your Investment

Connect with Aaron Walker

Website: https://www.capitalpropertymanagementllc.com
Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/aaron.walker.167189
Facebook (Business): https://www.facebook.com/Capital-Property-Management-101476441533595

Contact Capital Property Management

Call: (857) 277-4741
Email: aaron@capitalpmllc.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

View Details

When you think of craft beer, eclectic flavor may not be what you expect. But, with names like, “Cloud Candy” and “Cosmic Distortion”, it’s no wonder Mighty Squirrel has been the talk of the town!

This week, I am talking with Naveen Pawar, Co-Founder of Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co., about the Entrepreneurial journey behind the successful Biergarten and Taproom. What started as an interest in staying up until 2 a.m. to perfect homebrewing, shifted into becoming Waltham’s only Brewery and Taproom.

Naveen shares what brought him here from India and his found love for creating a fun and safe atmosphere for friends to enjoy beers together. Although there are many unique challenges faced during COVID-19, Naveen remains hopeful. As he shares the uprising in local support, Naveen reminds us that community is what brings us together.

Join us as we also discuss the importance of family and how Naveen defines the metric for a successful company.

Topics Discussed

How the “Go Big or Go Home” mentality shaped their success
Ins and outs behind making the first beer with protein
The importance of family outside of Entrepreneurship
What lead to the uprising of local support during a Global Pandemic
Focusing on Organic and Referral-Based Marketing
Why customer’s satisfaction rides on the backs of the team’s happiness

Connect with Mighty Squirrel

Website: https://www.mightysquirrel.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mightysqrl
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mightysqrl/

Contact Mighty Squirrel

Call: 781-839-9242
Email: Taproom@MightySquirrel.com

Relevant Article(s)

Waltham’s Only Brewery and Taproom, Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co., Opens https://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/20181205/walthams-only-brewery-and-taproom-mighty-squirrel-brewing-co-opens

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

View Details

How do you know which advertising and market approach is right for you? Is it more Facebook ads? Optimizing hashtags? Or is there a more “unconventional” approach that’s sure to turn heads?

This week, I am talking with Zack Gould, Co-Owner of G & N Insurance, an Auto and Home Insurance Agency. As we discuss how to market your business, Zack shares how G & N Insurance stands out from its competition.

His secret? Bobble Heads.

By incorporating this fun and quirky approach, G & N Insurance knows how to keep people talking!

Zack also shares with us a few of the ups and downs of starting a business. One of the greatest lessons learned is the power of adaptability and flexibility. Being able to adapt to new changes is one of the strongest indicators of success. As Zack tells us, setting goals is important for your business. But, being flexible also opens the door for new and better opportunities to come.

Join us as we also discuss the importance of incorporating a morning routine. By starting your day off with personal development, this sets you up for success in the long haul.

Topics Discussed

Finding new ways to strategize marketing your business
How local businesses thrive when they work together
Why incorporating a morning routine is essential to personal growth
The difference between “width” and “depth” in business
The power of thinking big and acting small
Why adaptability and flexibility are keys to continual growth
The ups and downs during the first couple of years in business
Viewing success as confidence in yourself

Connect with G & N Insurance

Website: https://insurewithgn.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insurewithgn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gninsurance/

Contact G & N Insurance

Call: (508) 545-2042
Email: all@InsureWithGN.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Whether you own a small business or a large corporation, having a strong Digital Marketing and Advertising strategy helps you align with your ideal client.

Our guest this week, Julia Becker Collins, Chief Operating Officer with Vision Advertising, a Women Owned & Operated Advertising Company located in Westboro, M.A., specializing in Digital Marketing. Vision Advertising helps business leaders in a myriad of ways such as Social Media, SEO, and Website development.

We discuss the ins & outs of Digital Marketing and how Advertising is more than a simple Facebook post. Julia shares the unique challenges she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Through various leadership roles, she has discovered what works well for her business and how to release the things that don’t.

Julia is a firm believer of self-care practices and creating healthy boundaries for you and your business to thrive. In fact, Julia believes that the most important resource business owners have is their time. As she states, “You can make your money back but you can’t make your time back.”

Join us as we also take a look into how to humanize social media and leave your personal touch even through a Global Pandemic.

Topics Discussed

Unique challenges women face in Business & Leadership Roles
Recognizing what best serves your business
Finding your ideal client through Digital Marketing
Viewing TIME as the most valuable resource
The importance of Self-Care practices creating Healthy Boundaries
Balancing Social Media and Personal Touch

Connect with Julia Becker Collins

Website: https://www.vision-advertising.com
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/visionadvertising
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/jbeckercollins
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionadvertisingrocks/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliarivka/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-becker-collins-81676bb/

Contact Julia Becker Collins

Call: 508-754-3643
Email: Julia@vision-advertising.com

Connect with Mark Condon

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Did you know that there is a Mind and Body connection with how we view Money? When we have a negative idea around money, we often find ourselves closed off from honest conversations. But what happens when we strengthen our relationship with money? What if we didn’t have to think so negatively about our finances?

Our guest this week, Ina Bachman, is a Money and Empowerment Coach, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and the Owner of Bachman Coaching. With her background in counseling and therapy, Ina helps business leaders build the necessary skills to take action and to take their business to the next level. She joins us as we discuss how to strengthen your relationship with money.

Ina shares how to restructure different beliefs and ideas around money. As we discuss the 5 Types of Money, we discover the different financial blocks that hold us back. According to Ina, how we view money is often an indicator of how we view ourselves. As we explore the concept of the "Money Shadow", we find that many people struggle with the notion that money is "bad". There are many triggers that people struggle with around making money (or lack thereof).

But, as we discover, money is abundant and there is plenty to go around! When we let go of our self-limiting beliefs, we begin to create a healthy realationshp with money.

Topics Discussed

Restructuring the beliefs and ideas around Finances
Finding clarity behind Self-Limiting Beliefs & Money Mindset Roadblocks
The Mind and Body connection with money
How people view the 5 Types of money
Recognizing Triggers getting in the way of business
How it “Toxic Money” traps us into our “Money Shadow”
Viewing Marketing as a tool to build better Relationships

Connect with Ina Bachman, LICSW

Website: https://www.inabachman.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ina.bachman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ina-bachman-licsw-tiwc-ceap-594a1932/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ina_bachman/

Contact Ina Bachman, LICSW

Call: (617) 953-6373
Email: Bachman.Coaching@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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One of the key components of a successful business is its ability to adapt to any challenge faced. And oftentimes, it's the most unconventional thinking that leaves the biggest impact.

Our guest this week, John Dowd, Owner Operator of Intelligent Upgrades Signs Co. joins us as we discuss his entrepreneurial journey over the last 10 years. John discusses the importance of cultivating long-lasting relationships outside of your business. He also shares how to build rapport with potential clients.

Over the years, John has learned the skill of adaptability, and even more so through a Global Pandemic. His secret? All hands on deck.

John’s “Macgyver Instinct” enables him to find creative solutions to complex problems with the drop of a paper clip. It’s no wonder he has maintained a successful business model through uncertain times.

Topics Discussed

Learning adaptability as a skill for entrepreneurs and small business owners
Recognizing skills & strengths (and learning how to outsource efficiently)
Successes (and challenges) faced starting a new business
How COVID-19 increased opportunities outside of the norm
Finding creative solutions to complex problems
Goal setting and being intentional with your time & resources

Connect with John Dowd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.dowd.547
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dowd-99058732/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john.dowd.547/

Contact John Dowd, Intelligent Upgrades

Call: 617-594-5948
Email: JohnAustinDown@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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If New Englanders can drink iced coffee year ‘round, then they definitely can eat Ice Cream year ‘round too!

Our guest this week, Will Collura, introduces us to Theatre Creamery, a locally owned and operated Classic Style Ice Cream Facility in Downtown Maynard.

We discuss what it’s like to open a new business during a Global Pandemic and how Theatre Creamery has persevered through their greatest challenges. Will shares with us the unconventional ways COVID-19 helped them build their brand and introduce new customers. As we discuss the importance of Referral and Word-of-Mouth Marketing, we discover that having a strong Customer Service ethic is what creates loyal customers.

One of the most important takeaways from this conversation is that there is always room for improvement. Even when you have the “best days” in your business, there is always an opportunity to grow. Will also reminds us that when you thoroughly enjoy what you do, you never really feel like you’re working.

Topics Discussed

Overcoming obstacles during the first-year of business
How COVID-19 strengthened Customer Service
The Power of Referral and Word-of-Mouth Marketing
Creating a visually appealing aesthetic through Ice Cream
Learning areas of improvement and how to continuously grow
The many hats of business owners and those in leadership roles
Why enjoying what you do never feels like working a day in your life

Connect with Theatre Creamery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheatreCreamery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theatre_creamery/

Relevant Articles

The Scoop on Theatre Creamery in Maynard https://maynard.wickedlocal.com/news/20200720/scoop-on-theatre-creamery-in-maynard

Contact Theatre Creamery

Call: 603-521-4143
Email: Will@TheatreCreamery.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Who said you can’t have your shake and drink it too?!

Our guests this week are James and Crystal Lozano, owners of Marlboro & Milford Nutrition. While James and Crystal handcraft guilt-free coffee, shakes, and smoothies, it’s no secret that their key ingredient is community. The Lozanos have cultivated a culture based on the customer’s needs and building strong relationships with each returning guest.

James and Crystal share with us how they have persevered through COVID-19 and the “secret sauce” behind their loyal customers. We discuss the importance of giving customers the option to choose the best product for their needs and the transparency behind their colorful menu. Crystal shares with us how they meet every customer at the door, even after closing time, to ensure the best service. James also shares with us how there is no problem too big to solve. And that there is always a solution, no matter how big the problem.

Whether you’re looking for the best pre-workout before hitting the gym or needing a caffeine boost during a mid-day slump, Marlboro & Milford Nutrition has got you covered!

Topics Discussed:

Building relationships & cultivating a strong community through protein shakes
Creating a fun, healthy, and positive atmosphere people can connect with
The power of social media during a global pandemic
Giving customers the opportunity to choose the best product for them
Dispelling myths & misconceptions about “healthy” smoothies
Why Customer Satisfaction is essential to brand recognition

Connect with Marlboro & Milford Nutrition

Facebook (Marlboro): https://www.facebook.com/marlboroughnutrition
Facebook (Milford): https://www.facebook.com/Milford-Nutrition-104082564619295/?ref=page_internal&%3Bpath=%2FMilford-Nutrition-104082564619295%2F

Relevant Articles

Upton Couple Opens Marlborough Nutritionhttps://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200314/upton-couple-opens-marlborough-nutrition-new-smoothie-and-juice-bar-on-rte-20

Contact Marlboro & Milford Nutrition

Call: 508-243-2159
Email: MilfordNutrition24@gmail.com / MarlboroNutrition@gmail.com

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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When it comes to health and fitness, many of us believe that in order to achieve our goals, we must work out 5 days a week at the gym and stay on a restrictive diet. However, our guests this week break down the stigma around the health & fitness industry.

This week, I am talking with Anthony Passamonte and Lindsey Corak, Founders of Stacked Up Fitness. Both Anthony and Lindsey are Strategic Lifestyle and Fitness Planners who want to help others “stack up” positive, consistent habits in order to level up their lives. They are dedicated to giving and serving others to cultivate strong relationships and recognize the importance of leveraging strengths and weaknesses in order to achieve their goals.

We discuss how Anthony & Lindsey are able to blend nutrition, fitness, and life routines in a holistic way in order to help individuals wherever they are on their fitness journey. Anthony shares with us how small, consistent habits stack up over time and why it’s essential to have a healthy outlook on our lives. According to Lindsey, she believes that the fitness industry is changing as there has been a massive shift towards mindfulness and mindful eating habits.

Topics Discussed:

Helping individuals with different experience levels in fitness
Emphasizing customer service & giving back to the local community
Leveraging strengths & weaknesses for building a strong team
Blending nutrition, fitness, & life routines in a holistic way
The power of consistency
Stacking small habits for long-term progress
Benefits & hidden opportunities of COVID-19
Cultivating strong relationships

Connect with Stacked Up Fitness

Website: https://www.stackedupfitness.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StackedUpFitness
Stacked Up Fitness Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/stackedupfitness/
Stacked Up Snacks Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/stackedupsnacks/
Anthony Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/apass24/
Lindsey Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/theburnboss/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxTyoc1MXxfrmPE00cLdxKQ

Contact Stacked Up Fitness

Email: Lindsey.Corak@icloud.com
Call: 508-740-8760

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Bostons' Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Do you remember the nostalgia of coming inside from playing all day and coming together as a family at the dinner table? Are you learning how to implement this age old tradition with your own family? Our guest this week shares with us how she can keep this dream alive with a modern twist.

This week, I am talking with Kristen Precourt, owner and founder of K Cooks LLC. Kristen is a mom on a mission to bring people together through food, one meal at a time. With her background in working in a professional kitchen and navigating the restaurant industry for the past 15 years, Kristen is no stranger to healthy, home cooked meals. Specializing in “heat and eat” meals, Kristen creates an experience for families to remember for years to come.

In this episode, we reminisce about our childhood days of sitting around the dinner table with our families and why it’s important to keep the tradition alive. We also discuss what Kristen has learned in the last two years of K Cooks LLC and what she hopes to accomplish in the upcoming years. Kristen shares with us the opportunities she has found through COVID-19 and how she has marketed her business accordingly. We also talk about the benefits of healthy competition and how to introduce healthy eating to younger generations.

Topics Discussed:

The heart behind creating healthy meals for families “on the go”
Introducing young children to an assortment of healthier options
How word-of-mouth marketing can increase brand awareness
Investing in clients by creating an experience of healthy eating
Why healthy competition can be a good thing for the community
Recognizing how consistency pays off in the long run
Cultivating creative solutions during a Global Pandemic

Connect with Kristen Precourt

Website: https://msha.ke/kcooks.llc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCOOKS.precourt/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcooks_momchef_/

Contact K Cooks LLC

Email: KCooks.Precourt@gmail.com
Call: 781-752-6912

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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With a focus on diversity and inclusivity, it’s no wonder that our guest this week is able to create a life-time experience that ensures there is something unique for every want and need for all generations and walks of life.

This week, I am talking with Justin Beit, owner of Wright Jewelry & Design Company. Wright Jewelry & Design Company has an overall vision of being the family owned jeweler of long ago, delivering old-world customer service, exceptional jewelry and a multitude of expert services.

In this episode, we discuss the many challenges faced while opening a new business with his wife during COVID-19 and how the support from the local community has allowed them to change the way people view custom jewelry for years to come. As Justin shares with us, the key to creating a business that people remember and trust is the ability to step ego aside and to be willing to adapt and evolve to the changing times.

Topics Discussed:

Challenges faced from opening a business in the midst of a Global Pandemic
Recognizing the importance of local community and supporting small businesses
The power of connecting through social media
Focusing on the art and craft behind custom design jewelry
Capturing the interest of customers of all generations
Allowing the customer to be apart of the design process
The changes of the jewelry business over the past few decades
Stepping ego aside in order to adapt and evolve to the changing times
Focusing on relationships and lifetime experiences

Connect with Justin Beit

Website: http://www.thewrightjeweler.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wrightjewelryanddesignco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewrightjeweler/

Contact The Wright Jewelry & Design Company

Address: 61 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749
Email: justin@thewrightjeweler.com
Call: (978) 562-2017

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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When you think of speed dating, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Is it the awkward conversations with a stranger or uncomfortable seating at formal events? Our guest this week shares with us just how creative and entertaining the speed dating world can be.

This week, I am talking with The Virtual Events Guy, also known as Jonathan Krieger. Jonathan is the founder and Emperor of BoardGame Empire where they host board game speed dating nights where you can find love while playing games. Not looking for a romantic partner but want to broaden your community?

BoardGame Empire also hosts tournaments and indie showcase nights where you can try out the creations of local artisans, as well as weekly board game nights, party game nights, Dungeons & Dragons for First Time Players nights, board game escape-the-room challenges, and more.

In this episode, we discuss how Jonathan got started by working as a bathroom attendant to a bikini model to now The Virtual Events Guy and how he has pivoted BoardGame Empire to creating virtual events during a global pandemic. Jonathan shares with us that creating experiences is more than just selling a product and how board games can create long-lasting relationships.

Topics Discussed:

The importance of autonomy in small business
Pivoting from in person board game nights to creating virtual events
Entertaining people developing relationships
Creating experiences that people can remember forever
Why it’s important to sell experiences over products
How relationships matter more than just profit
Shifting the paradigm around goal setting
Changing the focus from numbers to experiences

Connect with Jonathan Krieger

Website: https://www.playboardgameempire.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playbgempire/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/playboardgameempire
LinkedIn (Personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-krieger-151a1a3b/
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/boardgameempire/about/

Additional Resources

Odd Jobs https://www.jonathankrieger.com/my-book

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

Through each episode, Mark will find what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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When was the last you thanked a business for their strong social media ads? Social media advertising can be a useful tool in brand recognition. But online ads alone aren’t going to leave a lasting impression. Our guest this week shares how the longevity and lasting power of promotional items far outweighs the longevity of online ads.

This week, I am talking with Dan Reardon, owner and creator of PlexKey Promotional Marketing Group. Dan’s expertise in the marketing and advertising industry gives him a competitive edge to bridge the gap between large companies and independent business owners. By providing exceptional promotional products, PlexKey is able to curate the best quality products to fit each customer’s unique wants and needs.

In this episode, we discuss how Dan started PlexKey and how 2020 has been a year of resilience and perseverance in small business. We share how Dan went from $150 out of his own pocket, a bold idea, and a strong drive to now combining humor and creative solutions to increase brand awareness. Dan shares the importance of offering yourself as your greatest resource and why authenticity is the most important tool at the end of the day.

Topics Discussed:

Successes challenges of starting your own company in a 30 billion dollar industry
The importance of providing high quality service to independent business owners
Why utilizing the 5 senses is essential to marketing
Focusing on relationships and humanizing yourself
How resilience and perseverance increases opportunities
Filling the gap between larger companies and independent business owners
Valuing quality products over a quantity of products
Finding opportunity in choices during a global pandemic
Why brand awareness and consistency is effective for brand recognition
Understanding the longevity & lasting power of promotional items

Connect with Dan Reardon

Website: https://www.plexkey.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plexkey/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlexKey/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/plexkey
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plexkey/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1JUJ4kvF9I6BrafBoS8rDw/featured

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Each one of us lives our own unique lives so it’s imperative that our insurance fits the needs of our most unique assets. Looking for the best coverage for your beloved pet? Needing insurance for your most valuable collection items? Starting a business of your own? Then look no further!

This week, I am talking with Gregg Safford, Insurance Consultant & President of Safford Insurance, LLC. With over 15 years of insurance experience, Greg is client focused and passionate about helping individuals and businesses understand their insurance options so they are prepared for the unexpected.

In this episode, we discuss how Greg was able to go from being a “terrible receptionist” in Washington, to managing 12 agents in Tennessee and what led to Greg ultimately setting up his own shop in Massachusetts. Greg shares the importance of cultivating strong relationships with clients and what sets his company apart from other insurance companies. We also talk about how to practice effective time management, why pivoting is important for goal setting, and how networking is crucial for growing your business.

Topics Discussed:

Why building relationships matter more than transactional policies
Understanding skill sets and strengths
Changes to the insurance industry over the years
Why having options is crucial for taking care of potential clients
How to cultivate strong relationships within the insurance industry
Why asking unconventional questions ensure the best quality experience
Finding the balance of work and business
The flexibility to pivot for goal setting and long term sustainability
Why it’s necessary to build a network of professionals in your field
How Facebook, Google, and YouTube ads can increase your revenue

Connect with Greg Safford

Website: https://www.saffordins.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregsafford/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saffordins
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GregSafford
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI5PcH-uY7erGiig2fnp-Ug

Visit Safford Insurance, LLC

9 East Central St., #3

Franklin, Massachusetts 02038

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Are you looking for a casual environment where you can host a business meeting with your colleagues or simply grab a drink with your friends? Our guests this week share what it’s like to go from a home brewing and roasting hobby to the commercial space and how they cultivated a community around the idea of sharing drinks and creating memories together.

This week, I am talking with JP and Melynda Gallagher, owners of The Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Company. Founded in 2017, The Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Company is an independent craft brewery and coffee roastery with an onsite taproom located in Downtown Marlborough. With Marlborough’s unique history, this inviting taproom is a place for the community to come together to enjoy locally brewed beer and freshly roasted coffee in an environment reminiscent of the city’s past as a shoe manufacturing center.

In this episode, we discuss the benefits of supporting local businesses, the importance of collaboration through a global pandemic, and how The Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Company is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement in a creative and unique way.

Topics Discussed:

Leaving the corporate world to pursuing entrepreneurship
Creating a work-life balance
Pivoting and shifting through COVID-19
The importance of collaborating with local business
How this brewery is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement
Utilizing small space for efficient workflow
Why creating consistency matters for the community
Understanding the design and creativity behind crafting beers
The importance of stepping back and reviewing past accomplishments

Connect with JP & Melynda Gallagher

Website: https://lostshoebrews.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lostshoebrews
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lostshoebrews/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LostShoeBrews

Visit The Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Company

19 Weed Street

Marlborough, MA 01752

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Is your home or office disorganized or in shambles? Has that elevated to another level during COVID-19? Our guest this week can help you get organized as well as feel confident in the space that you’re in.

This week, I am talking with Debby Fenn, a licensed social worker, professional organizer, and owner of Away It Goes. Debby shows us how she uses her social work background and education to help people with greater issues outside of organizing. Her main goal with Away It Goes is to help people feel better in their space as well as how they’re using their space.

By focusing on the strengths of her clients, Debby is able to focus on the positive work of organization rather than the problems at hand.

Topics Discussed:

What it really means to work with a professional organizer
The process behind organizing
How to thriving during uncertainty
Why maintaining relationships is the key to success in referral based business
Looking at the “bigger” picture behind disorganization
The difference between deadline and non-deadline related organizing
Why we should focus on a positive outcome

Connect with Debby Fenn

Website: http://awayitgoesbelmont.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AwayItGoes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debby-fenn-licsw-5a85813/

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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What makes a real estate company stand out from its competition? Is it knowing the ins and outs behind every facet of a house you are selling? Is it the focus on relationship building over selling? Our guests this week give us an inside look into what how a strong sense of communication and asking the right questions has been the driving force behind their company’s success.

This week, I am talking with Ryan Wilson and Mian LaVallee of The Wilson Group at Keller Williams. Ryan and Mian believe that true success is when you are able to better yourself and those around you. According to Ryan and Mian, their ability to advise buyers on the best opportunities for each homeowner has been the key to their company. By setting realistic expectations, understanding preventable mistakes, and knowing the ins and outs of the real estate industry, this ensures that customers feel confident and secure in their buying process.

Topics Discussed

The importance of knowing the ins and outs of real estate
Why you should know every facet of a house that you’re selling
How to show that you care for a client by your actions
The importance of relationship building
Discerning between quality questions vs a quantity of questions
What makes a city primed for real estate
Holding leverage in negotiations to determine best possible price for the buyer

Connect with The Wilson Group

Website: https://www.wilsongroupre.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilsonGroupRE
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wilsongroup/

Connect with Ryan Wilson & Mian LaVallee

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanwilsonre/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mian-lavallee-0b071b10/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mplavall/

Relevant Articles

Ryan Wilson, Wilson Group/Keller Williams Realty https://bostonagentmagazine.com/whos-who-2018/ryan-wilson-wilson-group-keller-williams-realty/

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston's Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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What makes the best donut eating experience? Is it the use of local and sustainable ingredients for fillings, frostings, and garnishes? Or is it the art and creativity behind each unique flavor that leaves customers coming back for more? Our guests this week share how their family-driven operation stands out from their competitors.

This week, I am talking with Rick and Mike Lombardi, father-and-son duo and Owners of The Vin Bin and The Donut Stand. As they celebrate their 16th year of business, we discuss how they got their start, what community means to them, and why work never feels like work when you enjoy what you do. For Rick and Mike, we discover what truly makes a lasting impression on customers and how they create new experiences with each visit.

Join us this week as we discuss what it means to be a family-friendly company through both the love of culinary art and a strong focus on community.

Topics Discussed:

The history behind The Vin Bin (and how The Donut Stand got its start)
How COVID-19 has increased innovative ways to connect with customers
How curbside pick-up & popup shops have shifted the way we see entrepreneurship
Thoughts behind expanding the business (and the future for Rick and Mike Lombardi)
Creating unique flavors to change the way subs and sandwiches are made
The importance of shopping and eating locally
The power in partnering with local communities

Connect with The Donut Stand

Website: https://donutstandma.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donutstand/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_donutstand/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StandDonut

Connect with The Vin Bin

Website: https://www.thevinbin.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevinbin/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thevinbin/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thevinbin

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the metrowest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Are you looking for a unique experience when it comes to a local brewery? Maybe you’re looking for creative and diverse flavors that stand out from its competition. Or maybe you’re looking for a family-owned, community focused company that you can share a few beers with and truly feel like you belong. Well, look no further! Our guest this week shares his company’s mission to create truly distinctive lagers featuring locally grown ingredients, traditional German brewing standards, and American innovation.

This week, I am talking with Sam Hendler, Co-Owner of Jack’s Abby Brewery. Sam shares his childhood experience of spending summers with his grandfather and working at his family’s ice distribution company, alongside his two brothers, Jack and Eric. After his father gave him permission to find what he loved, he found his passion and ultimately opened Jack’s Abby Brewery in 2011. Sam now takes pride in owning a community focused business and is able to cultivate a culture that focuses on family, flexibility, and opportunity.

Join us this week as we learn more about the creative process behind Jack’s Abby Brewery and what diversifies them from other breweries.

Topics Discussed:

The importance of recognizing opportunity and how to take advantage
Learning from trials and obstacles from starting a business at a young age
History behind the name and how it relates to its brand identity
Why being flexible & adjusting plans on the fly is advantageous for business
How to learn from challenges and how to move on from them
The goal of balancing a healthy work life balance
Providing a stable business for family immediate family as well as work family
How the local community has helped through COVID-19
The process behind brewing, fermentation, packaging, and selling
Where Jack’s Abby draws its inspiration from
Finding the balance between ingredients and experimentation
How to adequately measure fulfillment and contentment

Connect with Sam Hendler

Website: https://jacksabby.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacksabbycraftlagers/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacksabbycraftlagers/

Resources

Jack’s Abby Releases 2019 Community Impact Report

https://www.brewbound.com/news/jacks-abby-releases-2019-community-impact-report

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the metro-west area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses. Through each episode, Mark will find out what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

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What if I told you that most of the “healthy” food labels are just repackaged junk food? Despite what you may have been told, not all carbs and not all fats are created equally. In fact, the health and food industry capitalizes on misinformation and miseducation. But don’t let this discourage you, though! There is actually a more productive way to eat healthier and live a transformative lifestyle! Our guest this week dives into what really helps us live our best and most healthy lives.

This week, Jeffrey Su, bodybuilder, wellness coach, and owner of First Call Out Fitness, LLC, breaks down stigmas around the health and fitness industry. As Jeffrey walks us through the evolution of the fitness industry, we learn that it’s no longer about focusing on fad diets and cutting out calories. According to Jeffrey, there has been a huge shift from focusing solely on physical health to focusing on mental and internal health as the foundation for a healthy lifestyle.

Topics Discussed:

How training and coaching has evolved over the years
The art and science around diet design
Why personalized models are effective in transforming our health
Breaking down diet trends and why people buy into the hype
The secret to achieving the best results
Why consistency is the key to unlocking your health
How both mental and internal health impacts external physique
Understanding how different health obstacles impact women’s health
Creating sustainability for weight loss journey
The biggest myth and misconception around personal training and nutrition
Learning to have patience through your health journey

Connect with Jeffrey Su

Website: http://www.firstcalloutfitness.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstcalloutfitness/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/First-Call-Out-Fitness-LLC-1345399678848484/

Resources

The Excellence Cartel podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-excellence-cartel/id1473504650

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the metrowest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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When it comes to crafting a great beer experience, what are the essentials for standing out? Is it the perfect blend of flavors and unique taste? Is it the cutting edge technology and use of fresh ingredients? Or, is it a focus on the consumer from a creative and playful environment? Perhaps it is a mixture of all of the above. This week’s episode is all about crafting and creating a memorable customer experience.

Our guest this week, Matthew Steinberg, is the Co-Founder and Head Brewer at Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Company. While Matthew originally started working for his father’s tire business, he never quite felt passionate about learning the tire industry. However, by getting his start at home brewing during his College years, he instantly found his passion for beer and the brewing process.

Matthew shares with us how his local brewery cultivates community through a fun look at storytelling through beer with a subtle nod towards the meaning of life. Not only does Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Company focus on providing its customers with unique flavors and catchy names for each beer, it’s no secret that they also focus on creating a fun, healthy, and safe environment for its employees.

So, sit back, relax, and crack open a cold one as we dive into the creativity and heart behind Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Company.

Topics Discussed

The creative process and heart behind naming each beer
Understanding the ups and downs of a self-owned business
The nuts and bolts process behind developing & formulating fresh beer
How the community has shown massive support through COVID-19
How supporting and participating together contributes to a successful business
Why it’s essential to always be learning new things
Goals for growth and expansion in 2020 & beyond

Connect with Matthew Steinberg - Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Company

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exhibit.a.brewing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhibitabrewing/

Relevant Articles

Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing to Raise Money for Australian Bushfire Relief

https://massbrewbros.com/exhibit-a-brewing-to-raise-money-for-australian-bushfire-relief/

Beer & Mortar: Striking Gold With Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Company in Framingham

https://boston.eater.com/2017/9/12/16288834/exhibit-a-brewing-company-framingham

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Have you ever wondered what sets companies apart from their competitors? With a wide variety of organizations, it can often feel daunting trying to find the best company to collaborate and partner with. You may be asking yourself how you can level up in our own company to better serve your clients.

Our guest this week, Patrick Tobiasson, is an Insurance Advisor & Managing Partner at Dolan and Maloney Insurance Agency, LLC. With more than 15,000 insurance agents in Massachusetts, Patrick is no stranger to professional competition. However, as Patrick is one of only 611 Licensed Insurance Advisors in the state, we begin to find his company’s competitive edge.

Through his humble beginnings from selling worms and bailing hay as a teenager to spending 6 years in the Air Force working as an electrician on F-16C Fighter Jets, Patrick shares how he found his way as an insurance advisor and how he eventually bought Dolan & Maloney from his father-in-law. Patrick’s honesty and integrity have been the driving force for how he shows up in both the workplace as well as he shows up for his wife and family.

Topics Discussed:

The importance of a Growth Mindset and focusing on positivity
Benefits of working with a personalized insurance agency
How COVID-19 has positively impacted Patrick both personally & professionally
The key to maintaining healthy relationships with a referral based business
The ups, downs, and driving force behind staying committed for 13 years
The biggest misconceptions of the insurance industry
What we can learn from Patrick as he defines his own level of success

Connect with Patrick Tobiasson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patrick.tobiasson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-tobiasson-lia-aai-m-clcs-cpia-996b034/

Connect with Mark Condon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BBMWPodcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmw_podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoFEPYtTyJ8BMKyYwLd2xzQ/featured?view_as=subscriber

About Boston’s Best of MetroWest

“Highlighting successful business in the MetroWest area of Massachusetts.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry leading experts in the metrowest area of Massachusetts to talk about their businesses.

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Boston's Best: Recent Episodes

Mark Condon

1 Misconception around the Donut & Pastry Industry