The John Krol Podcast

View Details

It has been a passion of hers since she was a just a little girl, providing exceptional care for the most vulnerable. Also, she was raised well by her mother who was a nurse, as Renee is today. Starting as a certified nursing assistant, then becoming an LPN and then a registered nurse (RN), Renee brings a certain perspective and an innovative approach to leading her private pay home care agency, Whole Heart Homecare. In fact, in an effort to build a strong foundation and reputation in the community, she pays her caregivers more than most agencies. The hourly rate is also a bit lower than many other agencies. What this means is that she earns a lower profit margin per patient/client as the business owner. But, for Renee, it's worth it to make sure she has the best people working and becoming loyal to her agency, believing this will lead to the highest level of care for patients- which is the most important goal. In this episode, we cover Renee's professional evolution, decision to start an agency, being a young entrepreneur, her philosophy on providing great care, growing her business slowly and with intention, and more.

We hope you enjoy John and Cara's conversation with Renee Saville, owner of Whole Heart Homecare.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Persevering against all odds, and transforming through the experience is the stuff of inspiration, and makes for great stories to tell. It's the premise behind Deserts to Mountaintops, which chronicles the journey of extraordinary women overcoming monumental challenges. It's the creation of Jessica Buchanan, the woman who made headlines worldwide for her strength and tenacity, surviving a kidnapping by gunpoint by Somali pirates, being held for ransom for 93 days, forced to live outside in deplorable conditions, starved and terrorized, she was finally saved by SEAL Team VI in early 2012.

After telling her own story in a book, she moved on to creating a platform to tell the stories of other women. Audrey Casey-Herrick and Wendy Casey (sisters) and their aunt Mary Casey-Bowers wrote their own story in the first volume of the series.

Stacia Bissell's life was transformed on a fateful day when she flipped from her bicycle and woke up hours later in her bed, asking countless times why there was a cast on her arm. The journey has been long and winding, and has ultimately led Stacia to step forward in her greater purpose to inspire and enlighten the world through her own story.

About Audrey Casey-Herrick and Wendy Casey and their aunt Mary Casey-Bowers (The Mystic Chics):

We are modern day medicine women who bring a unique blend of solace and empowerment to any event with their energy healing, music, movement, and sacred ceremony. Whether it is 3 minutes or 3 hours, these intuitive women will help you feel into your own body and energy field to clear blocks and activate your true power.

About Stacia Bissell

After her world was turned upside down, she learned to navigate a new way of making strides in healing. With encouragement from her medical team, the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIA-MA), friends and family, she began doing speaking engagements to various audiences on the topic of brain injury. In addition to co-authoring Deserts to Mountaintops; Choosing our Healing through Radical Self-Acceptance, she is a contributor to Brain Injury HOPE magazine, a member of the Brain Injury Association of America's Brain Injury Advisory Council, council member for the Brain InInjury Alliance of Vermont, a program leader for LoveYourBrain, and a member of the BIA-USA speaker's bureau. Stacia co-founded the BIA-MA Northampton Brain Injury Support Group and the Berkshire Brain Injury Collaborative, designed to provide professional development to teachers on return-to-learn strategies after a student suffers from a concussion.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

This episode ranges the full blend, dating, the challenge of aging parents and grandparents, the loneliness of caregivers, getting the heave-ho from your friend group once you have kids, the revival of live music in venues throughout the region, Andrew's dream job at MTV back in the late eighties and early nineties working with Kurt Loder, and the likes of the Backstreet Boys, the Real World and more. Andrew is a lover of life and we love him!

Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: ⁠https://www.fairyslippers.info/books⁠In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is ⁠https://balanceandblisswellness.com⁠John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: ⁠https://oneeightymedia.com/⁠a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Everything from the media landscape in a small New England county, death by chocolate specialty bread to thinking more broadly as to who is a leader. Here is the audio-only version of a wide ranging conversation generated from the original live show. If you know anything about shocking a river or a lake to manage fish, don't touch that water while it's happening - Mike learned that lesson at a very young age. His days beside his father in the wilderness set the stage for a successful wildlife photography side gig that has gotten him published countless times. His show has been a catalyst for raising awareness and pushing change in the community - badly needed in a day when traditional media have consolidated so severely and the tolerance for opposing opinions and views has become virtually non-existent. Always fun to catch up with Mike!

Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Support The Blend Podcast with Buy Me a Coffee.

Andrew & Rachael founded RopaNa Wellness seven years ago driven by Rachael's health issues that traditional Western medicine, one pharmaceutical after another, could not address. In fact, she worked at a hospital and, suffered from severe pain, insomnia and other symptoms that made life almost unbearable. Hemp was the solution that changed her life, and their journey began to help countless others find similar, life-changing, results.RopaNa comes from the ancient Sanskrit language meaning “to heal oneself”. Our philosophy is built on the need for knowledge, quality and transparency in the CBD Hemp Industry. We are here to bring you the absolute finest Vermont CBD products at compassionate prices including THC- Free and Full Spectrum options.We care about the environment as much as we do our wellness because the environment is responsible for the wellness of everyone. Our business practices reflect this by minimizing packaging and utilizing solar power. We make the commitment to use recycled, biodegradable or re-useable materials and use all natural, non toxic cleaning products in our facility.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Cara and John go back on their original messages on Facebook when their relationship began in the middle of the COVID lockdown, Tinder is still the "gold standard" of dating apps - says Marc - even if no one wants to admit it, Cara shares a date gone all wrong in her short stint in adventures of online dating. Marc shares anecdotes on a boudoir shoot that has still never happened after five years, his work in editorial including a shoot being picked up by Playboy.com. We also learn about how you always need someone to be ready to deliver the "emergency" call if the first date from an online dating app becomes a train wreck!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Water is everything. It touches every bit of our lives and our communities, in our physical and mental health, recreation and our economy. Leslie Gabriel's connection with water became clear at a very young age and then evolved over time, ever reimagining the relationship at every turn. His professional life led him to water, creating a successful business with water testing and filtration systems. Today, he wants our region to celebrate and maximize the potential of water as an asset for residents and tourists, alike. The concept of "blue spaces" which has been successfully implemented in many other communities across the country, has immense potential for health benefits, recreational opportunities, tourist attractions. In this episode we also cover the healing properties of water, Leslie's work in the water industry, why the bottled water industry is a bit of a "scam," the hospitality industry's push for toxic-free waterways, Leslie's podcast And So It Flows, and much more.

Leslie is an H2O activist, author, content producer, event producer, podcaster, water enthusiast, marketing maven, ambassador for water and public speaker about the pressing need of water sustainability and the need to transform our relationship to water to a state of love and respect.After beating lifelong chronic skin rashes and other ailments, by simply using pure water to detox my body and mind, I am a passionate believer in the power of water. A majority of my time is spent on what he considers the most important movement of modern times, The Water Sustainability Movement. Leslie Gabriel is also proud father of, who he calls, his "Not So Little People" - Kyla Elianna Gabriel (29) and Jeremiah Noah Gabriel (25). I am also a distance runner, hiker, skier, kayaker, camper, traveler and dancer.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Cara and John roll-out their online sales training program and philosophy behind it, what happens with the diamond engagement ring when a married couple splits (they have experience), ways that small businesses can expand their markets by using online tools. John and Cara have a solution for that, and we look forward to demystifying it and helping people begin an exciting new journey in online sales.Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is a consultant, digital marketing expert and the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer.

John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Dorothy's Estaminet is the new hotspot in the downtown, drawing off the tradition of the former Mission Bar & Tapas and the living room of the region, Dottie's Coffee Lounge. Jess Rufo explains the concept of the "estaminet" which is a place for adult beverages but has a bit of a "shabby" fun vibe. That's perfect, and it's already become a hub for incredible live music, residencies with the likes of Gina Coleman and Misty Blues. Jess covers her own growth and change since the early days of starting Dottie's, and how that has impacted her management style. It's an open, honest, authentic conversation about family, life and running a business based on your passion. Cara Krol is the wonderful author of the book, Fairy Slippers and the sequel, Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach, and owner of Balance & Bliss Wellness, located in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency, with expertise in building websites with top-notch SEO, digital marketing and online sales, branding, design and strategic marketing consulting. https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It's a seismic shift that has the potential to fundamentally change the way we approach not only pediatric dental care, but total health for our children. Airway-centric dentistry focuses on the root causes and can address the underlying issues that lead to sleep apnea, snoring, sleep deprivation, and yes, cavities and tooth decay. Driven first by her intuition as a mother to children with chronic health issues, Dr. Lauren Ballinger, who is a board-certified pediatric dentist, was not satisfied by the traditional Western medicine options of addressing the symptoms. She knew there was a better way, and there was no going back. Dr. Lauren experienced what she describes as her "breakthrough," leaving her family's practice to take a great leap on a new venture: Good To Grow Airway Pediatric Dentistry. The approach is leading to excellent health outcomes for patients and she hopes the health and dental establishment will take the steps to support the growth of airway-centric dentistry within the dental community. In this episode we also cover: the fundamentals of the airway approach compared to the a symptom-based (tooth-focused) approach, the importance of breathing through the nose rather than the mouth, the importance for deep sleep for children and brain growth, the concept of increasing the boney border of an airway, the American Dental Association (ADA) gradually warming up to airway-centered dentistry, Dr. Lauren essentially reinventing her career at a time when many are considering their path to retirement, relearning from Native American traditions from the 18th century to improve airway health for children, and following her mission to truly help people the best way she knows how. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Lauren Ballinger, DDS, CSOM (certified specialist in orafacial myology).

Book references in this interview:

Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor

Shut Your Mouth and Save Your Life by George Catlin

Dr. Lauren Ballinger is a Board Certified pediatric dentist who, after 15 years at her family’s traditional pediatric dental practice, left to open her own practice to help prevent children's suffering - before it happens. Good to Grow Airway Centric Pediatric Dentistry and Frenectomy Center is a sanctuary for families everywhere. Good to Grow is completely devoted to proper airway and dental wellness, the prevention of disease, and true collaborative care amongst the childrens’ doctors and family.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It's simply harder and more expensive to do business in Massachusetts, and that's one of the main reasons George Shoemaker is now moving his entire operation to Sarasota, Florida. Currency Coffee originated in Dalton Massachusetts with the nod to town's Crane Paper currency-making fame. In spite of success in distributing to a wide array of businesses and restaurants, and more recently, a hugely success cafe in the lower level of the Allendale Shopping Center - George has decided to leave for sunnier skies. We unpack the decision and the future of his business. We also answer a viewer question about the challenge of co-parenting when one parent refuses to contribute to activities for the kiddos, as well as some remarkable co-parents who get along remarkably well (rare)!Also, while everyone is talking about Taylor Swift and the Super Bowl, there is a second tier celebrity couple for the big game with a local connection: Former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo (of the Pittsfield Culpo family) is engaged to SF 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. We'll assume Olivia will be at the big game on the other side of the Swifties. Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It's been 63 years since Larry Kratka first spoke into a live mic at a radio station, and he's still going strong today. Larry's love of radio took him well beyond his day job as a newsman and anchor with WUPE-FM and the Berkshire News Network, among other stations, as he was the driving force in saving community radio in Pittsfield. His initiative to revitalize WTBR saved the station from an imminent departure from the community, and galvanized a new generation of students to discover the magic of radio. In this episode we talk about the accessibility and style of various elected officials, a press conference with Governor Cellucci at the Highland Restaurant, and how that's the kind of authenticity we could use today between public officials and reporters. Larry is a treasure and has contributed to this community immensely through his passion for radio and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Larry Kratka.

John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency, which provides top-tier digital marketing services, web development, branding, PR, communications and more.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

A Divorced Mom turned Standup Comedian, Eryca Nolan considers herself Funny As A Mother.See her entertain audiences with her wit and unfiltered honesty as she shares her tales of Motherhood, Love and most importantly Wine.She’s also the proud producer of a Standup Comedy Show, Project HERlarious, a Mostly Female, All Hilarious Comedy Show filled with Female Comedians from across the United States.“I want to focus a majority of time working with and learning from like minded, supportive women. What better way of accomplishing this than by creating a platform of my own. “Cara, John and Eryca cover a lot of ground, including Cara's newly minted "Old Money Brunette" look - although it's actually her natural hair color, the backlash to the backlash of the Taylor Swiftiness Super Bowl-bound KC Chiefs, Eryca's blended family, wine, the HERlarious Project supporting women in comedy, her on-stage style, her BBQ business that is crushing it in the Berkshires of Western Mass. and a whole lot more.Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Cara and John catch up with Chantell McFarland who recently returned from a hugely successful run at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis with Diego Mongue and his band. Chantell has something in common with John and Cara as a stepmom making it work in the blended family. We cover almost scripted Taylor Swift, KC Chiefs, NFL season, Cara's purchasing Halara overalls for comfort and to relive her college days, Chantell talks about her wedding dress video that went viral and got over a million views on Facebook, the experience in Memphis where the band had seven performances including at a radio station there, her inspiration to get back into performing music after a longtime away and more! Songstress, Chantell, is a classically trained artist from Chicago, not residing in the idyllic hills of Berkshire County. In her early career, Chantell performed on studio albums for PBS Kids and Sesame Street. In 2021, Chantell performed in a concert of encouragement and hope for essential workers featuring Cellist, Yo-yo Ma and The Boston Symphony Orchestra’s maestro, Manny Ax. In 2023, Chantell joined the Diego Mongue Band and was a semi finalist in the International Blues Challenge. She was also accepted into the Recording Academy. Chantell’s love for music and people are intrinsic within her melodious vocal arrangements and soulful songwriting.Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Ep2 with candle and soap maker Soma Dinicola, talking blending families, running a small business, creating product and marketing them.We'll follow-up with your feedback on our conversation about the Stanley Cup Tumbler, narcissistic relationships, finding love and marriage the second time around and more! Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!#stanleycupquencher #williamstanley #family #theblend #blendingfamily #theblender #raisingoursons #dad #mom #greatbarrington #stanleyquencher--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

The opener for a podcast about life after divorce, dating, finding love again, blending a family and making it all work! John and Cara talk about how they got together after divorce and difficult times, including how he "rolled" into her DMs, figuring out how to date in the teeth of COVID and figuring out how to just get a cup of coffee when everything was closed! John and Cara also cover the craze over the Valentine-themed Stanley Cup Quencher, the history of the Stanley Cup coming from Great Barrington and how that town could capitalize on the history (Stanley-fest? Quench-tacular?).Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/booksIn addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.comJohn Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work!#stanleycupquencher #williamstanley #family #theblend #blendingfamily #theblender #raisingoursons #dad #mom #greatbarrington #stanleyquencher

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

John shares his vision for Pittsfield and differentiates from the status quo in making change in the city - including putting families first, curbing skyrocketing taxes, creating desperately needed financial transparency in the city with an independent internal auditor, revitalizing the downtown, having a clear vision with downtown police foot patrol and a sense of urgency to position Pittsfield as the culturally rich hub of the Berkshires, improving city services, having a respectful, professional leader as mayor to work at elevating city staff and more!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

What exactly is the purpose of public education? It's a fundamental question that Kristina Cardot hits head-on in the work that she does every single day. As a longtime former art teacher in the public school system, she offers a powerful critique of something many are thinking and starting to talk about more than ever - public education's obsession with standardized testing. This is not to say we shouldn't have benchmarks, of course there should. However, since education reform in Massachusetts in 1993, Kristina (as many others believe) says creativity, spontaneity and some of the greatest opportunities to truly learn have been highjacked by high-stakes testing. "Art is the only place where you can have different answers and still be all right," says Kristina who is the founder of the RE-FORMation Academy powered by her business The Funky Phoenix, where they specialize in making wonderful new work out of repurposed materials. She is working with the Pittsfield schools to develop safe spaces for students and creating an atmosphere of belonging. Incidentally, the conversation in regard to standardized testing is timely as there is now a movement to abolish the MCAS as a graduation requirement. The Mass. Teachers Association is publicly supporting this ballot question. Also in this episode we cover: education reform, social-emotional needs of students and teachers, processing trauma, the origin of RE-FORMation Academy, everyone has creativity and how our system dampens it and discourages it, The Funky Phoenix origin, creating a more sustainable community and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kristina Cardot.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It was the power of journaling, allowing a very young Elizabeth Heller to write about the "big feelings," that she says saved her own life. As a victim of trauma and abuse at the age of four, she found that the journaling allowed her to step outside and look at her emotions and find a level of peace - and it's a bit of magic that she is dedicating herself to sharing with the world. This is the case, particularly for kids, as she has developed the concept into a journal that offers a fun and guided path for children to begin their own journey of mindfulness. Elizabeth's own journey has brought to her to the Berkshires after decades in Boston. Like many others, the pandemic led to a pretty dramatic shift in her life, and has now become an active member of the community, hosting workshops in schools and more. Also in this episode we cover: the power of mindfulness, meditation, her young days as a ballerina, her 4 a.m. moment that led to a book proposal, starting her own business, EforAll, the rewards and challenges of being an entrepreneur, breathing, absorbing joy, the stress for kids in schools with high stakes testing and less and less recess time, gratitude, the Kids Super Journal Podcast, journaling in the morning and enjoying your personal time in the early hours. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Elizabeth Heller.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It's been quite a journey from Melissa Helm's hometown of Glens Falls, to working in the non-profit world on Wall Street (of all places) and then to the Berkshires - which she is very happy to call her home. Drawn by work in corporate wellness, Melissa would later work at Kripalu and its signature stress resilience program. This all aligned with Melissa who has grown throughout her own mental health journey, struggling during her college years with stress and anxiety. She later realized that many of her peers were facing similar challenges, and she wondered at the time why there was so little conversation about mental health issues. As the executive director of NAMI Berkshire County, she continues the work in bringing mental health and suicide prevention out of the shadows - and is at the forefront of broadening the base of support in the community. Leading support groups, including peer and family support, trainings for community members and educational programs, Melissa is guiding the organization to fulfill its vision. Also in this episode we cover: Where NAMI fits into the mental health support community, the organization's youth retreat at Kripalu, mindfulness, the effectiveness of peer support, the inability to meet the mental health demands of the community and several months' wait for mental health appointments, staffing, wages, clinician burnout, insurance reimbursements, the NAMI 5K in Lenox June 17th, fundraising, the pace of the Berkshires vs. NYC, positive psychology, meditation and being present, and Melissa's part-time gig bartending at Mo's Tavern. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Melissa Helm.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Among 2700 YMCAs across the nation, it is not likely that there are many with the remarkable experiences that Randy Kinnas has had over his 27 years with the organization. From living himself at a Y at his first job in Lawrence, Massachusetts to overseeing a unique quasi-public/private operation in his first CEO role with the Northern Berkshire YMCA, to overseeing a merger countywide to ushering in the beginning stages of the most recent capital project at the Pittsfield Family YMCA - there isn't much he hasn't seen. For Randy it continues to be about focus on two core priorities: building relationships and achieving tangible results. Now as the COO of the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs, Randy provides support and his guidance to YMCAs across the state, and while he has always had an eye on moving to the national scale, the Berkshires is his home and the more reasonable commutes suit him today, as he raises four children, including two boys who are just about Little League age. Also in this episode we cover: Randy's early days in the Y, and applying for his first CEO position in North Adams at the age of 29 (with the encouragement of his Mom), opening the box of character development, thinking differently on the use of space at the Y, the expansion of child care and child programs, running a non-profit sustainably, the innovation of the Northern Berkshire YMCA model that includes a public school attached to the facility, the Ponterril property (still owned by the Y), the Mass. Alliance of YMCAs shared services model, raising two older daughters and two younger boys, lessons from playing sports, the old CYC basketball and learning the fundamentals, playing basketball for Westfield State College and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Randy Kinnas. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It may have started with her daughter wanting to join the Youth Alive step team, however, Leah Reed's involvement in the Women of Color Giving Circle was a spiritual extension of the legacy of her legendary grandmother Edna Wilks and the Monday Night Club. And it is a true Circle, says Leah, as "everyone can contribute and everyone has something to give" as it relates to providing mentorship to build self-esteem and resilience for the young people of color in our community. Her experience is informed by Leah's own journey that included losing both her parents at a very young age, but never forgetting their lessons of respect and prioritizing education. Earning the wonderful accolade as Best Mom at the 2023 Albany Tulip Festival, Leah has three children, including an oldest daughter who she has fostered for more than a decade and will soon be adopted, which is sure to be a joyous occasion. This weekend the Women of Color Giving Circle will celebrate the latest graduating class of young people of color, another tradition started by the organization to recognize success. Also in this episode we cover: the contributions of Leah's grandmother Edna Wilks, being proactive rather than reactive in developing mentorship, Leah's journey as a young person of color at Monument Mountain and navigating life after losing her father at 16, setting high standards, her work to earn her masters at Boston University School of Social Work, learning to provide constructive feedback effectively, exposing children to financial literacy, music, expressive dance and other cultural arts, disparity in health care for African Americans, the surprise honor of Mom of the Year at the Albany Tulip Festival and more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Leah Reed.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It was more than four decades ago that Marge Cohan started to get serious about bicycling. She had met her future husband at the Josh Billings and she was hooked. Still, she never could have imagined that she would be one of the key advocates to stretch a bike path through the Berkshires from Vermont to Connecticut. It's a slog, especially in Massachusetts where bike paths are built to strict specifications. For instance, in New York the Empire State Trail covers 750 miles, traversing multiple types of surfaces and varying widths. It's not as simple in Massachusetts where one mile of trail costs about $2 million to construct. It's built well, but it doesn't happen overnight. Today, the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail has extended now to Crane Avenue in Pittsfield from the north and will soon have another section completed to Merrill Road. As it is, the bike trail section from the Pittsfield/Lanesboro border to Crane Avenue is the most-used recreational hub in the city. The month of May is Bay State Bike month and there are several events to promote bike safety, the concept of bikes mean business and bike tourism. And there is potential for growth on the bike tourism side of things. For instance, Pittsfield lies on the path of the popular Western New England Greenway, which draws thousands of bicyclists annually. I admire Margie's longterm commitment to making it happen and her passion for bicycling. Also in this episode we cover: the politics and logistics of developing a countywide bike path, bikes mean business, e-bikes and making bicycling more accessible to people of all ages, Margie's personal experience bicycling for commuting and for enjoyment, riding groups, the challenges for those without motor vehicles in the Berkshires and its economic impact, lights (on bikes) is the law, the progress of running the bike path through Williamstown into North Adams, new laws to give bicyclists and motor vehicle operators some leeway and more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Marge Cohan.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It's a passion project that has been brewing since the mid-1990s for Gina Coleman, whose encounter with the legendary Odetta left a powerful impression. The moment when Gina and Odetta connected, sang side-by-side and locked together in harmony was a seminal moment in her career. This inspiration will come full circle in the form of a live album to be recorded May 12th and 13th in Studio 9 at the Porches Inn. The switch to acoustic and performing folk standards will be a switch for the Misty Blues. But pushing to the edges of the blues genre is nothing new for the band. And anyway, as Gina explains in this episode, African-American folk music is most certainly blues in her book. This performance and upcoming album comes on the heels of Misty Blues' most recent album "Outside the Lines," which includes a rich array of familiar voices and performers from the Berkshires and beyond. Gina and her band have not skipped a beat, not even during the pandemic, when they remarkably released three albums with the band members recording virtually. The beat goes on for Gina, and as someone who admits she basically doesn't sleep, there is surely more to come. We love it! Also in this episode we cover: the story of meeting Odetta at the Bottomline club in New York City as a guest of Arlo Guthrie, the decision to make this tribute a live album, growing up on the Bronx as hip hop and rap came on the scene, musical influences, including Motown and salsa, the earlier band Cole Connection and their acoustic funk style, a part in a Williamstown Theatre Festival production as a gospel singer that led to a transformative transition to blues, the rich variety of blues music, Gina's songwriting process and how much of it comes while she is driving, why she once utilized answering machines in her songwriting process, her son Diego choosing music as a major at Williams College, the evolution of Misty Blues from a blues tribute band to producing original music, the story of Charles Neville performing on an album, Gina's 27 years coaching rugby at Williams College and why the sport inspires her, performing at Firefly in Lenox and more.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Gina Coleman.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

When he saw too many kids without a focus and without something to do, especially as opportunities were fewer and farther between amid the pandemic, Dashine Moore took the steps to establish the Beat the Streets basketball program. Now in its third year, Dashine sees the value of the evolving program continue with the cost of traditional summer camps continuing to rise out of the reach of many young people and their families. Galvanizing the support of various nonprofits to make it all come together, Dashine has a particular drive to give back to the community as his own path has been a long and winding. This included five and a half years of incarceration. That experience is a lesson he shares with young people in the program to urge them to make better choices. His time away from his sons in prison also makes it all that sweeter to see the success of his boys, one in prep school and one who just won a state championship as a member of the Taconic High School basketball team. Dashine has a powerful story and I appreciate having the opportunity to share it in this episode. Also, we cover: Kicks for Kids and the support of Barrington Stage Company, the power of role models, legendary youth advocates Manny Slaughter, Shirley Edgerton and Valerie Hamilton, a community center, mentorship programs, financial literacy, his experience at Norfolk prison in Boston, his business Mr. Feets, the economics of sneakers, flipping sneakers, selling paintings, bringing back the Gather-In and more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Dashine Moore.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Families with kids simply want more fun things to do in the Berkshires. Melissa and Ken Fawcett have shown that filling a part of this niche can be hugely successful, as the indoor playground, Ready Set Play, has been just about fully-booked for weekend parties from the very beginning when they opened in October 2022. Responding to the clear demand for working families seems to be a great business model for the couple, as their first venture Ready Set Learn was immediately successful. The demand was so high for their pre-K education and play center, they opened a second location. Interestingly, Melissa's jump into private business came when she ran into a bit of a roadblock as a teacher in the public schools. Hoping to move from teaching fourth grade to kindergarten or first grade, the transfer never happened. The rest is history, as Read Set Learn was born - first on Virginia Avenue, and then to a converted church at the corner of Dalton Ave. and Benedict Road. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

"We can do this better," is what Christine and Bill said to themselves after spending some years in the craft beer industry, and seeing their own employer evolve quickly from a small regional brewery to an impersonal, corporatized operation. When the making of beer became more about pushing the right buttons on programmed machinery than following their creative passion - they knew it was time to do their own thing. It was the mid-2000s, and the craft beer industry was growing, but with a big discrepancy in the quality of what was coming into the market. There was an opportunity. Traveling through New England from their home base outside of Philadelphia, it was the iconic fiberglass, painted sheep from Pittsfield's Sheeptacular that drew their attention. A first tour of Pittsfield was made memorable when the couple received a remarkably warm welcome by Mayor Jim Ruberto who took the time to meet with the couple personally on a whim. "Where are we in America?" recalls Bill who is still struck how a city's mayor would drop everything to meet with a couple of unknown entrepreneurs to sell the city to them. To some extent, the rest is history as it relates to Christine Bump and Bill Heaton's indelible impact on the Berkshires' restaurant and beer scene. Five years running a restaurant in Downtown Pittsfield led to the pair pouring themselves into their true passion, which of course, is brewing the very best. Big Elm was born, and today, in addition to the brewery and tap room in Sheffield, they have also opened a second tap room in Great Barrington. In this episode we also cover: The early days of craft brewing, working at Victory Brewing Company outside Philadelphia, starting a restaurant with no experience and relying on those who do, empowering employees, being inspired to brew beer in college and the early craft beers there were more few and far between, the high quality of today's craft beers, the power of a partnership that continues through the end of a marriage, the origin story of Big Elm, the never-ending popularity of IPAs, the concept of a brew trail in the Berkshires and collaboration of all the local breweries, surviving the winter seasons in the Berkshires, beer yoga and other creative events, the power of having current and former teachers as staff members and more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Christine Bump and Bill Heaton of Big Elm Brewery.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

While she has been the executive director of Berkshire Music School for three years, Natalie Neubert is still regularly introducing herself to the wider community in her "new" role as she took over just before the lockdown of the pandemic. As the broader Berkshire community is still getting to know her, Natalie has been busy reimagining the offerings at the venerable cultural institution on Wendell Avenue in Pittsfield. Today, there is a grander mesh of musical opportunities that are lighting up the imaginations of young and old alike. This includes electronic, DJ, computer music, sound design, video game design music, which Natalie is working to include into a wider curriculum to add to the traditional music lessons for the classic instruments, such as the piano and violin. Like all successful non-profits, it's a team effort. Also on the this episode we welcome BMS board member Karen Cellini and her partner, Joe Corcoran, who are both producers for the upcoming production of Tony and Tina's Wedding on April 29th at the Holiday Inn, which is serving as a major fundraiser for the Berkshire Music School. And this one is not to be missed, as Pittsfield's former Mayor, Jimmy Ruberto, will be cameo role as Uncle Luigi. That's worth the price of admission on its own! Also in this episode, we cover: Natalie's artistic journey from piano, sax, electronic music and her love of Bach, not being Kenny G, tonalities, Karen's past work with the Storefront Artists Project, the value of music infused into public education, leveraging our cultural institutions in the Berkshires to enrich our schools, power of sound and frequency, mastery and also being in the moment with activities that simply bring you joy, and more.I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Natalie, Karen and Joe.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It is deeply personal and labor of love for Luke Fitzgerald. He launched The Love of T Foundation honoring his late mother, Teresa. He says the mission of the organization fits "hand-in-hand" with how Teresa lived, as she was always there for loved ones during their own struggles in life. In finding the way that the organization can best support the community in suicide prevention, Luke was dedicated to finding the right niche. After a great deal of research, and with the help of board member and Pittsfield native Dr. Daniel Burt, the organization is developing a dedicated peer-to-peer program intended to fill gaps in the current model and provide a path to systemic change to better prevent suicide. The Berkshires has the second highest suicide rate in the state. Studies show that when individuals work directly with a peer specialist, hospitalization rates go down, in-patient services go down, self-stigma goes down, and the individual shows an overall increase in empowerment and hope.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Luke Fitzgerald.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It was deeply ingrained into his soul as a child as he listened to the jukebox at his Uncle John's, and with early vinyl records in the 1970s. That sound mesmerized young Tim Dupree and his early fascination with 50s and 60s rock n' roll, then soul and Motown music, never ceased. What also never left him was the love of the sound of vinyl, and over the years he has accumulated over 20,000 records and LPs. Today, as the warmer sound and tactile aspect has popularized vinyl again, DJ Pup Daddy (Tim's stage name) has carved a strong niche in the market with his use of those old (and sometimes new) records. And, by the way, that old jukebox was handed down to him and it remains proudly in Tim's home, along with a number of the vintage turntables and other equipment he has restored. I love this conversation with Tim, as he has truly followed his passion to make it a career. Also, in this episode, we cover the longevity (or lack thereof) of vinyl, CDs, 8-Tracks, cassettes, Tim's process of DJ'ing a party and "it's always spontaneous," growing up using walkie-talkies with his brother playing the role of DJ, back playing and "cue burn" on the turntable, direct drive vs. belt-driven turntables, why Tim shies away from working first weddings, scanning the dump and Goodwill for equipment, tube amplifiers, challenges and opportunities for downtown Pittsfield, dog sitting on the side and more.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Tim Dupree (aka DJ Pup Daddy).

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

No matter how large or small the company, the characteristics, emotional intelligence, and general mood of the leader inevitably impacts the entire operation. In fact, that correlation between the mood of the leader (CEO, president, owner, etc.) and the bottomline performance of the company has been proven in several studies. Pascal Renders has been at the forefront of this type of work, as a consultant for large corporations, particularly in his years in Belgium, where he garnered a reputation for getting deep and personal with business leaders to address areas of struggle. A transpersonal psychotherapist, Pascal believes in a holistic view of addressing systemic problems within organizations and that if you do not deal with the deep underlying issues, behavioral patterns of company leaders will continue no matter how an organization may shake up personnel or its structure. This is one of the most interesting conversations I have had in regard to leadership, which is a topic we often delve into on the podcast. It's definitely worth the listen! Also in this episode, we cover: "bad bosses," the ineffectiveness of typical corporate approaches to instilling values and company culture, compartmentalizing and the pitfalls of it, catastrophic team-building sessions, respect for employees, challenging his future wife, Alexandra, to align her company with her own values, discovering a new modality to address trauma, Pascal's work with individuals and couples, the mind vs. the brain, family constellations, generational trauma, emotional intelligence, HeartMath, his organization United Inner States of Freedom, bringing the best out of people and much more.I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Pascal Renders.

Pascal's bio:

A native of Belgium, Pascal is a dynamic, multi-lingual professional well versed in a wide variety of business functions. For the past 12 years, as Founder and CEO of Quantumize, Pascal has provided executive and life coaching to a broad range of companies and individuals throughout Europe and the US. His clients are family offices, and companies in the banking, insurance, and investment management industries. He has also worked with companies in the retail, food, luxury goods, leisure, and cosmetics industries. Earlier, Pascal was an Operations and General Manager for companies in the food and leisure, and HR and consulting industries. He began his professional life as a Start-Up and Business Development Manager for a Brussels-based family owned business invested in the leisure industry.
Pascal completed training in Systematic Coaching, Destination Coaching Methodology, Transpersonal Psychotherapy, Systemic Constellation Work, Body-Oriented Trauma Resolution, and is an accredited practitioner of HeartMath, Insights Discovery, Emotional and Social Competence Indicator, and the Birth into Being Method.

After graduating from St Jan Berchmans, a renowned Jesuit High School in Brussels, Pascal also earned a combined BA/MA in English-Spanish Translation from the University of Brussels and holds an Executive MBA from Antwerp Management School (AMS).

www.innerstatesoffreedom.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It all began on the simple premise that there was no place for competitive runners to buy racing flats anywhere in the Berkshires. Over the past dozen years, Berkshire Running Center has been the centerpiece of a loyal, growing running community that has elevated the sport to a true attraction to our region, and put the Berkshires on the map for running race tourism. This has been the passion of the Kent and Shiobbean Lemme. Over the years, the BRC professionally filled a much-needed niche for running races throughout the Berkshires by providing a turnkey operation to manage races. In turn, Kent and Shiobbean have helped countless organizations raise money for worthy causes, which is often the mission of road races. Today, they have moved it to the next level with the creation of the Berkshire Running Foundation, a 501c3 with a mission to expand the reach and impact of the movement and promote the essence that the sport of running encourages; a safe, healthy and balanced life. With the lead sponsor for the popular Steel Rail Races, MountainOne, coming on board, they're off to a great start. MountainOne's Jon Denmark joins us to provide insight into their organization's decision to support the events and BRF. And both Shiobbean and Jon share their backstory on how running has become ingrained in their own lives. Also in this episode we cover: the origin story of BRC, the Green Mile origin and bringing the race back to downtown Pittsfield, running with a baby stroller (clutch Dad move), the historic Mother's Day race in Pittsfield which is the longest running consecutive all-women's race in the country (47 years), race tourism, the Berkshires' position to take advantage of qualifiers for the Boston and NYC Marathons, the purpose behind creating a non-profit entity, the refueling of the Independence Run (Fourth of July Race) in Pittsfield, running as "the oldest friend I have" to Shiobbean, stopping at Dominos Pizza to heat frozen hats and gloves during a frigid Berkshire run, Appalachian Trail economic impact, the bustling Allendale Underground community, the motivational and social aspects of running groups and more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Shiobbean Lemme and Jonathan Denmark.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

Sure, Carrie Wright appeared on the podcast to plug the Berkshire Art Center (formerly IS183) annual Gala, Metallic Couture Disco, Saturday April 1st, but we certainly had to cover more ground than that. We started from the beginning when Carrie "grew up" on Bousquet Mountain, then went on Colorado State, and continued her journey on various ski mountains with a core group of friends, including her future husband, Bill. An artist herself, Carrie has been one of the most visible organizers and advocates in the Berkshire arts scene, including her work in the 10x10 festivals and, of course, her work supporting IS183. After the pandemic disruption, she reinvented herself and became a licensed realtor. At first, she feared that her new role would diminish her ability to give back to the community, as she did when she worked in the non-profit world. Turns out that this was not the case, and Carrie feels like she's able to do more than ever to support others. Also in this episode we cover: Carrie's sing-talking with her kids and a demonstration in the episode, the photo and video events before the event to promote past IS183 galas, DJ Ryan Brown, the different ways to pronounce Palmer's variety store on Elm St., Bill and son Pilot's Instagram reviews of tin fish and more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Carrie Wright.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

For the love of the game. Steve Kotski has dedicated himself, not only as a Dad and coach, but as the president of the National League division of Pittsfield Little League. For him, his passion was solidified back when he was a kid as a baseball and hockey player rising through the ranks and forging lasting friendships and a solid work ethic. Today, he works to instill those values in the players on his team and in the 9-12 year olds throughout the league. And at the same time, in a day in age when Little League has become quite competitive, it's important to make sure the kids have fun! In this episode, we cover: the specialization of youth sports vs. playing multiple sports throughout the year, the different characteristics of the American and National divisions in Pittsfield Little League, maintaining fields and the volunteers and coaches who do it (including Steve), tryouts for Little League (they're coming up this weekend!), the culture of travel teams, all-star teams, the Jimmy Fund tournament, 1791 and Pittsfield as the home of baseball, teaching resilience in kids and getting back up and swinging again after striking out, advice for parents and coaches, drills for parents to help kids with mechanics, Steve's wife Amy's role in supporting the team and league, and her amazing business Designer Consigner at the Allendale Underground, the return of Legion ball, Lou Orazio and the success of the Berkshire Adult Baseball League, and much more!

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Steve Kotski.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

From her earliest days as a little girl, the power of drawing on a page fascinated and inspired Sally Tiska Rice. Coming down late at night to learn the tricks of the trade from her father who drew blueprints for a living, there was a magic at the end of the pencil. Her love of the process was interwoven into her 25-year career on the team at Crane & Co., which created its legendary stationery. Part of the work, which included custom stationery for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, the Kennedy family, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Ozzy Osbourne, was done with handmade brushes painting ink on 100 percent cotton paper - impossible to be replicated by a printer or press. After years of involvement in the local arts community, including NUarts downtown, Sally is now a part of the burgeoning Clocktower Artists. The group is growing with the support of landlord David Carver, who is building out more space in the Clocktower building on S. Church St. in Pittsfield to accommodate demand for more artists. Sally says she's not an extrovert by nature, but she's seen a lot of great results by "putting herself out there" to support this project and her own artwork. We're glad she has! Also in this episode, we cover: Sally's mentorship of fellow students with art projects at a young age, her own early mentors at North Junior High, Pittsfield High School and at Berkshire Community College, working in several media and a recent focus in water colors, overcoming health challenges and multiple spine surgeries, her work doing commissioned pieces, connecting with Mary McGinnis and other artists in the early days of the First Fridays Art Walk, her spirituality and what inspires her own work, and much more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Sally Tiska Rice.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

View Details

It was a concept that brought so much joy to their own family on vacations in the past, Heather and Jeff King knew that it was a business ripe for success in the Berkshires. After nearly three years open, a second location and further expansion into other locations, Shire Donuts just continues to put smiles on the faces of happy customers. And why not? Who doesn't love a great donut? It's just one of the recent ventures that Heather and Jeff have taken together after decades of working the traditional salaried 40-hour per week jobs. The other, being real estate, came when they were nudged along by their friends and colleagues Jay and Jennifer Nocher. True to form, Heather and Jeff work as a team leading with their own particular strengths as they focus on building long-term relationships for buyers and sellers. As they look to expand Shire into other retail locations, they are also considering the move into south county, and Great Barrington, in particular. We also cover in this episode: managing customer service with, often, long lines of customers (especially when the shops first opened), quality control "Heather-approved" donuts and training their workers ("donut artists), the product marketing and selling itself through social media and world-of-mouth, Heather and Jeff's first date at Ye Olde Forge, the dynamics of the current real estate market, tricks to keep donuts fresh after purchase (hint: it includes a container and a piece of bread), the value proposition of being open just three days per week, Dunkin' and Donut Man, expanding offerings of coffee with their partner Currency Coffee, working with their daughters Lauren and Chloe and more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Jeff and Heather King.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Merging the mission of her company into full alignment with her authentic true self took a powerful leap of faith. This was a particularly bold move in the world of the no-nonsense profit-driven industry of financial advising. But, for Alexandra Dest Renders, "it was time to get real." Those were the words of her husband, and business coach, Pascal Renders, who threw down the gauntlet and challenged her. In spite of more than three decades of great success in her industry, Alexandra was still "fragmented" and her business didn't truly reflect herself as an individual who is "deeply sentient, highly intuitive, and very sensitive to other humans." Today, her firm Willow Investments for Loving Change stands on her core values. She believes that "capitalism is not only ripe for a change but it is necessary for the well-being of humanity." That's a far cry from the classic Gordon Gekko "greed is good" philosophy, which we discuss in this episode. We also cover: the masks that are often worn in the corporate and business world, particularly on Wall Street, being vulnerable, following your inner compass, Alexandra's early professional successes and being a "closet" intuitive, quietly combining her analytical and psychic abilities, the launching on her new newsletter the "Economic Intuitive," the continuing weakening of the dollar (petro dollar), the emerging importance of local community sustainability, the ongoing challenges in the housing market amid the high cost of building materials, the spiritual experience in Grand Central Station that led her to the Berkshires, her journey from a diagnosis of MS to full health utilizing natural healing, taking the leap into starting her own business years ago, her vision for leadership and the partnership with her husband, Pascal, helping develop more leaders, and much more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Alexandra Dest Renders.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Arriving from Brazil unable to speak English a dozen years ago, completely shifting in her career and finding the love of her life in the Berkshires, the only constant for Karen Murray is change. As a mother who has advocated strongly for her daughter, Victoria, Karen has served as a translator in the public schools. Today, the language barrier continues to be a challenge for families with parents who have trouble speaking English, or don't speak it all. In her role at the RMV, Karen has distinguished herself for her focus on changing the culture to focus more on customer service and she's had great mentors along the way who she credits for helping her get there. "It's impossible to do it all by yourself," says Karen, who also is a pretty accomplished singer, snowboarder and an avid traveler. In this episode we cover her roots growing up in a political family in Brazil, how she found her way to the Berkshires, some quick tips along with the hard work that helped her learn to speak English (hint: it includes watching movies with subtitles), how she met her husband, John, and the inspiration he is for those who believe in second chances and much more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Karen Murray.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Even at the young age of 12, Kaitlyn Pierce was way ahead of her time in the area of online marketing. As a superfan of the Backstreet Boys, she received permission from AOL back in the day to increase the size of her subscriber list, disseminating the latest info on the boy band. She's come a long way from those days when she was known as the Backstreet Boys Girl. And yet, she continues to be well ahead of the curve as a small business owner and as a mother. Starting her own business, Pierce Social, was the outgrowth of her years of experience as a social media manager and a necessity to have more flexibility in her schedule to be the mother she wants to be. In addition, Kaitlyn homeschools her children, which we explore in-depth in this episode. We also cover the powerful decision she made in her teenage years after an incredibly difficult experience of her own in the public schools marked by chronic health issues, anxiety and depression. Kaitlyn is an inspiration and shining light in our community. Also in this episode, we cover: productivity of working from home verses at the office, taking the leap to go into business for yourself, content creation and social media strategy, the storytime concept, the value of doing makeup while telling a story on social media, social media as a PR strategy, sharing your expertise, the mindset shift for successful homeschooling, taking the time to allow your children to explore (go down the rabbit hole) in homeschool lessons, and much more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kaitlyn Pierce.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

A laser-focused interest in the nature and process of politics and the art of being a great bartender gives Casey Pease a unique set of skills in his area of work. Having run for statewide office before the age of 21, while also working all aspects of various campaigns, he's grown up professionally in a world that truly provides insight into human nature. Today, he now is working full-time for the state senator he helped get elected in 2022, Paul Mark. In this interview, recorded just after the election, we cover a great deal of ground, including: his niche as a bartender and his own side business he has created, his favorite and least favorite drinks to make, craft cocktails, the night scene in the Berkshires and in Pittsfield, the basic framework for political campaigns, knocking doors in a campaign, the impact of national politics on local and state politics, the reduction of local and statewide news coverage, finding commonalities among constituents and more.I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Casey Pease.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It is said when the student is ready, the teacher will appear. For Jerrid Burdick, through successes, failures, lessons and finding his way to life/work balance, there have always been people who have entered into his life just at the right time. It's all in the timing, and the humility to be open to the next lesson. Growing up on a farm on Florida Mountain, it would have been hard to imagine that Jerrid would have made his mark selling tuxedos for celebrations throughout the Berkshires. But, then again, throughout his childhood he never knew himself that his mother and grandmother were master seamstresses - and his natural ability with the measuring tape was no coincidence. "It's in your blood, pay attention, " he later heard when he began working in a tuxedo shop in North Adams. In business, Jerrid showed innovation right from the start when he was a teen-ager creating a service that delivered tuxes (no brick and mortar required) and found a niche in various high schools during prom season. He also felt the sting of stepping into a hyper-competitive market with heavy hitters who would try to take him out of the game - landing infamously on the front page of the local newspaper. He also felt the devastation of bankruptcy, which he says was the result of not keeping his own ego in check. Another lesson learned. Still, even when he went back to work in a more traditional job to get back on his feet financially, he knew where his passion was and he would not be denied. In this episode we cover his full professional journey, landing in the Berkshire Mall with Tux Express, and quickly realizing he needed more room to grow. The gutsy move to North Street raised eyebrows, as he was suddenly situated just a few doors down the street from his top competitor. We also cover: a surprise phone call that led to a lasting mentorship and enduring friendship, the development of a web presence for what ultimately became the Berkshire Wedding Expo, family life, fatherhood, self-care, the economics of weddings, capturing the business of those traveling in to get married in the Berkshires, the evolution of wedding and prom menswear, spirituality, the massive impact of COVID on his business and the industry, and not dwelling on mistakes, but instead, learning quickly and moving forward.I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jerrid Burdick.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Five years ago, Aimee Marshall signed and lease on a single space in Crawford Square and remarkably opened for business three days later. True to form, she's continued the brisk pace and grown to now four spaces where she and her team teach 54 classes per week. Part of her secret sauce is staying ahead of the curve to benefit her clientele. This is particularly important in the world of health and fitness where people are often looking to switch it up and try a new discipline or new program. From RUMBLE to Kick Zumba, Yogalates, FUSION, R.I.P.P.E.D. and more, Aimee is gaining new certifications as quickly as new programs are rolled out. The business is so busy that Aimee's husband, Tim, has taken on a role also teaching early morning classes before going to work. And every bit helps, as Berkshire Fitness and Wellness Center runs classes from 5:30a until after 6p. It's a labor of love and business success story in downtown Pittsfield. We also cover: the desire to stay healthy throughout the holiday season and not waiting until New Year's, the healing arts, reiki, infusing energy work and rest into a weekly regimen, dietary constitution, lobbying the governor to open fitness centers during the lockdown, the value of working out in groups, doing business in downtown, Aimee's early athletic life and success in cross country running and her entry into the work of fitness in college.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Aimee Marshall.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

When you take the leap to New York City to make it in the acting and modeling world with no backup plan, it takes guts. It also takes an ability to adapt quickly and follow the opportunities and paths that one would never have imagined. For Chelsea LeSage it meant solidifying her position as the go-to Lady MacBeth for various production companies in the city, and then carving a undeniable niche in the horror genre. She is a demon slayer in the 21st Century Demon Hunter and also plays the role of an actual demon in the film Bishop's Cove. Growing up, she never liked the idea of modeling, but that was another shift she made as she found her way. Teaming up with friends at We Speak Model Management, she's a part of a movement putting realistic body image at the forefront by putting models first and holding open conversations with brands around authentic representation. Today, Chelsea is now in the process of taking greater control and has evolved into roles as director, producer and a small business owner - operating multiple production companies and "finding peace in the chaos." We also cover: the "golden era of Taconic Theatre" with Jess Passetto, balancing the books and running a small business, falling into the horror genre, the mythos of demons, Shakespeare and Lady MacBeth, the NYC culture, gentrification, tearing her ACL during a modeling gig, the alternative version of John Wilkes Booth, growing a thick skin in the modeling world, the evolving and changing of the modeling industry, maintaining her Instagram account, Currency Coffee, Starbucks, Dunkin', playing the clarinet, guitar, banjo, bassoon and other instruments. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Chelsea LeSage.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It may be a common thought that we are our minds and bodies with energy simply circulating around us, but in fact, we are made up of energy that runs through us. This is the work Kathi Riley specializes in with her work in energy medicine, focusing on the chakras and meridians where she seeks to help your energy flow and clear. Kathi's journey began through a fascination of this energy work rooted in eastern medicine, followed by a life-changing weeklong workshop at Kripalu and a decision to listen to and follow her higher self - stamping out the "maybes" that had stagnated her in life to that point. Today, she continues her work and aims to make it more accessible to people of all economic circumstances with a partnership with Manos Unidas, and providing workshops and sessions at Witch Slapped in Downtown Pittsfield. We also cover: the mind vs. the higher self, the law of attraction, Abraham Hicks, techniques you can apply to yourself in her chakra work and meridian work, raising your vibration, trusting your gut, the nature of auras, the pineal gland, spring cleaning for your energy, grounding, reflexology, Gyan Yogic Breathing by Dr. Manik Haranandani, growing up in Lanesboro, the intuition and healing power of horses, the five elements model and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Kathi.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

As an investigator as a member of the State Police, Brian Berkel saw firsthand the devastation of suicide in our community. Today, he's a part of a concerted effort to continue to remove the stigma that remains on this sensitive issue, open up the conversation, and save lives. Today, Brian is the president of the board of trustees for the Berkshire Coalition for Suicide Prevention. Our conversation comes as the coalition has teamed up with the Berkshire International Film Festival and the Austen Riggs Center on this weekend's "Shine the Light" event with a screening and conversation about youth mental illness and suicide prevention at the Mawaiwe Performing Arts Center. In my conversation with Brian, we cover a great deal of ground on particular warning signs, risk factors and opening the conversation to help someone (or yourself) considering suicide, as well as: finding a space for the conversation, not putting off the conversation, removing the means for suicide, emotional and other changes as a red flag, veterans disproportionately impacted, Officer Doug Kingsley's walk across Massachusetts to raise suicide awareness, Kevin Hines and regretting a suicide attempt, what not to say to someone who may be at risk, and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Brian Berkel.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It seems that the timing was perfect for the growth of the cannabis coinciding with the beginning of Jocelyn Moody's professional career. Her willingness to jump in and learn every facet of the industry, from top to bottom, has opened up a world of possibilities as a marketer, and influencer in the industry. It hasn't been without setbacks. Just when her Instagram following of her photography of cannabis plants was hitting new heights, the platform suspended her account due to community guidelines. Regardless, that experience has made her sharper, smarter and more creative in her approach, while she continues her work with many of the cannabis businesses in the Berkshires. It's a great conversation providing an inside look into the cannabis industry in the Berkshires, and Jocelyn's journey to this point. At 27, the journey has just begun. We also cover: constraints in marketing in the cannabis industry, budtending, pre-rolls, changing the way people think about cannabis, growing pains in the industry, jumping into a frozen lake dressed as cannabis, the vape ban, breaking the grass ceiling, listening to the people who work for you, customer service, cannabis industry program at Berkshire Community College, Jocelyn's Front Porch Photography project, her long career in figure skating and how it has shaped her, mental tenacity, growing up in Dalton, SpongeBob, the power of kindness and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversations with Jocelyn Moody.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Much like many therapists who found their way to specialize in past life regression therapy, Carol McGlinchey began on the more conventional path in modern psychology. But she soon realized that we, as humans, are much more complex, deeper and fundamentally spiritual than conventional wisdom gives us credit for. By guiding clients into Alpha or, deeper, Theta brain activity, Carol has overseen thousands of past life regressions, which she says provide deeper insight and even help clients recognize blocks that may be hindering growth in this lifetime and in their soul's progression. While this concept is not necessarily accepted widely in our mainstream Western culture, there is a long spiritual tradition of the belief in reincarnation in the East and throughout the world. Further, Carol shares some historical evidence that may make skeptics think twice about the possibility of past lives. Regardless, Carol emphasizes that validating past lives is not the important part of her work, instead, she wants her clients to focus on how the work can improve themselves and live with greater spiritual integrity. We also cover: Akashic records, Christianity and reincarnation, Jenny Cockell, the mentorship of Dr. Brian Weiss and Dr. Michael Newton, unblocking fears, the lesson of love, overcoming beliefs or deprogramming, Carol's evolution to do this work and her own past lives, choosing our lives, Karma, Carol's pioneering in the natural organic food industry in the 1970s, her training under Swami Satchidananda, Earth as a training ground, looking for simple beauty and more.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Carol McGlinchey.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It has been a beautiful, winding road for Erin Laundry on a path paved by unique talent and boundless creativity. From her earliest days as a gifted musician bound for the Berklee College of Music, quickly swapping classical piano for guitar, majoring in songwriting and eventually, effortlessly, teaching herself the bass guitar, while, at one point, playing in five different bands at once - Erin has shown an ability to master new challenges. So, it's no surprise really that when she became a Mom and found a new family passion for LEGO, she would take it to new heights. Today, viewers around the world are following her as a top contestant on LEGO Masters, as she has successfully moved on to episode 5 of the Fox series. It's a powerful validation for Erin who looks forward to reopening her business, Bottomless Bricks, in her hometown of Pittsfield. In our conversation we dive deep into the time and investment she has made in truly mastering many elements of the LEGO universe. In this episode we also cover: The very beginning of Erin's LEGO fandom finding deals at tag sales and picking up LEGO bricks in bulk, LEGO'ers who follow the directions for new builds and those who build from scratch, LEGO sorting date nights, the evolution of the Bottomless Bricks business model from birthday parties to brick and mortar, the lingo of LEGO building and the names of pieces, it's LEGO not "Legos," minifigure trading, the Cloud City Boba Fett minifigure, why Erin named her son after a Star Wars character, "Brick and Brew" adult LEGO building events, succulent LEGO sets, the "Ladies LEGO Lounge" FB Group, gatekeeping and sometimes toxicity in traditional fan groups, the camaraderie among contestants on LEGO Masters, the grueling schedule of recorded episodes in March, Erin's musical background including punk bands and meeting her future husband at the former Siberian Cafe in the Howard Building, scoping out a new location for Bottomless Bricks, the pandemic halting the business in 2020, brainstorming a LEGO public art project in downtown Pittsfield (LEGOtacular?), Pittsfield's better than average connection to LEGO with Erin and Elizabeth Banks, voice of Wyldstyle in The LEGO Movie, LEGO knock-offs, the LEGO "system" and "clutch power," the deer behind the fence near the old GE Plastic House, the LEGO House in Copenhagen, following PR protocols for media interviews and the NDA for LEGO Masters and much more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Erin Laundry.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Believe it or not, Jennifer Ward was an artist before becoming perhaps one of the best-known and respected registered dietitians in the region. Just as her own philosophy on diet and nutrition has shifted and evolved based on experience continuing research, the entire industry has changed significantly over time. With that said, Jen says the food industry does not make it easy for people to eat healthy and that the prevalence of GMOs, particularly in wheat products, isn't doing us any favors. However, there are a lot of ways to tweak and find what works for you in eating better, feeling better and having more energy. We cover a lot of ground in the episode including: the process to become an registered dietician whose work is covered by major insurers, the four quadrant diet guide and the pyramid diet guide from the 1990s that led millions astray (and we never received an apology for), how the gluten-free industry has exploded in part because of GMOs, a right way and wrong way to eat gluten-free, listening to your body on foods that work and don't work for you, High Lawn Farm milk, the Paleo Project, oat milk, the grocery store sticker codes on produce, reading labels, common sense on portions, carb loading, changing habits, FODMAP diet, blood type diet, dinner for breakfast/breakfast for dinner concept, intermittent fasting, time-restricted eating, giving your pancreas a break, is breakfast the most important meal of the day (or is it just a marketing ploy by food companies), Fiona's frameworthy VO2 Max, the perfect tapering of Coach Gary Curry, Brendan's shoe-flipping enterprise, intent and the basal ganglia and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversion with Jennifer Ward.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The arts have been a cornerstone of reenergizing communities like Pittsfield and the Berkshires over the last two decades and The Berkshire Art Association has been a driving force. Board members Marybeth Eldridge and Mark Tomasi explore the positive impact of BAA over the years from Sheeptacular to the current exhibit RE:FRESH, now on view at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts. We also take a deep dive into arts education, choices for young artists and expanding upon the array of career opportunities available. We also cover: the impact that high stakes standardized testing has made on arts education in the public schools, the evolution of graphic design, painting on peanuts, Storefront Artist Project, downtown and other live/work artist spaces, the legacy of Mary Rentz, and others made a series of large public art projects possible in the mid-to-late 2000s and setting the stage for a round of public arts projects in the city. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with MaryBeth and Mark.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

For Evan Valenti, working at Steven Valenti's Menswear was at first a way to earn some extra money while following his dream of being a radio broadcaster. But, it wasn't long until he discovered he had a great knack and, ultimately, a love for the all things menswear. However, this isn't simply a case of following in his Father's footsteps. Instead, Evan has brought a new angle to this legendary downtown business taking calculated risks on new trends, adapting to an ever-changing marketplace, and getting through to the other side of the monumental challenges presented by the pandemic. We cover a lot of ground quickly in this episode, including Evan's decision to choose menswear as a career, his working relationship with his father Steven and a mutual respect that strengthens the business, surviving the pandemic restrictions and making it through to the other side, dress pants that feel like comfy sweatpants (I can vouch for how amazing they are), how the Amazonification of the world has actually strengthened Valenti's niche in the marketplace, bike lanes, Evan's work in radio, his brother Michael J. Valenti's work with Sherman Baldwin on a remarkable time in Berkshire County radio, a great Gene Shalit anecdote when he appeared on the show, techniques of interviewing guests, what Star Wars trilogy to introduce first to kids, the entrepreneurial spirit of the Valenti family, including his mother Carolyn, and more.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Evan Valenti!

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Intention is incredibly powerful, perhaps even limitless. Heidi Raymaakers has developed her gifts into a business, Soulful Intentions, that aims to support other women-owned businesses and serve as another piece of positive energy in a now-energized Wendell Avenue property. Her entrepreneurial spirit was originally inspired by her son, and the desire to work during the day and still be able to raise him. In fact, young Bryce is following in his mother's footsteps and has created his own businesses. In this episode we cover Heidi's Reiki work, tarot and retail at her shop that features "self-love stuff" created by women-owned businesses, the divine timing that led her to that space, Alicia Powers of Four One Three Salon, her work at Kripalu and developing her abilities, mentorship, trusting your gut and cutting off traditional media, self-awareness and owning your feelings, chakras, the Pineal gland, ways to decalcify the Pineal gland, tarot, creating pockets of positive energy in economic development and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Heidi Raymaakers.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It's rare to see Curtis Janey without big smile and projecting high energy when you see him out and about. He works the nightshift as a supervisor of an award-winning environmental services team at Berkshire Medical Center, which gives him time during the day to do what he loves to do in our community. Whether it's putting in the work to help save and grow the Unity Church of the Berkshires on Elm Street, or serving as the president of Kiwanis Club and organizing this year's Park of Honor for veterans and those who serve the community. Curtis was a US Marine for a dozen years, serving in Desert Storm before settling in the Berkshires to raise a family with his late wife, Susan. We cover a lot of ground in this episode including: growing up in Brockton as one of 11 siblings, going to a high school with 6,000 students, his early days singing, and later as a staple singing the national anthem at Wahconah Park and at other venues, that time he met Susan at a camp in Old Orchard Beach and a fateful sunburn that brought them a little closer, this nation's failure in helping veterans readapt to civilian life and failing to address astronomical suicide rates among returning veterans, the devastating loss of his wife Susan a decade ago and how support from friends and the community helped support his family through such a difficult time, Curtis' spirituality, the power of power naps, leadership, humility in managing people and much more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Curtis Janey.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Paul Mark was eight years old when he was first inspired by the world of politics when then-presidential candidate Michael Dukakis shook his hand. Then, it all got incredibly personal when his late father lost his job, which led to some tough years ahead without many things we'd all consider as basic needs. While he volunteered for political campaigns in his teens, it was his work and the union moved that "changed his life" and paved the way for his years of leadership in the Massachusetts Legislature. I've known Paul for a dozen years or so, and in this interview, I heard many stories I hadn't heard before about his journey to his current run for state senate. Now the Democratic nominee for the state senate district encompassing Berkshire, Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden counties, we cover a great deal of ground in this interview, including: the economic impacts of cancelling student debt, not falling into a rut politically on Beacon Hill, the fight for better wages for working families, the financial barriers for those running for federal office, Citizens United, affordable housing, enrollment challenges at Mass. College of Liberal Arts, the growth of population through immigration to the Berkshires, the Fair Share Amendment (Question 1), and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversations with Paul Mark.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

What in the world does the Governor's Council do? That's one of the most common questions that a candidate for a seat on this elected body receives. According to attorney Jeff Morneau, candidate for one of those seats, it's the "most important elected office that most people don't know about." And among all public positions that potentially have the greatest potential to make a very dramatic impact on our lives and the lives of family members, it's difficult to think of someone more powerful than a judge. Judges, whether they serve in district court, probate, superior court, or even, the Supreme Judicial Court, are all selected only after being fully vetted by members of the Governor's Council. In this episode, we unpack in more detail the role of the Governor's Council, Jeff's background as an attorney, running a practice, a husband and a Dad, and his passion for employment law and fighting for workers rights and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jeff Morneau.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It is a passion that started when he was young, and Ed Bride has carried his love for jazz just about everywhere he's gone. In the process, he's enriched his own communities, whether it was at his alma mater Villanova decades ago, or in a movement in the Berkshires that has brought world-class talent here as well as cultivating young musicians. The vision Ed had for a lighting up the Berkshires with jazz has led to a staple organization, Berkshires Jazz. Also, Pittsfield and the Berkshires have now become a place of jazz lore with moments between the late Phil Woods and his protege Grace Kelly, the late Dave Brubeck rehearsing with musicians from Pittsfield High School and so much more. In this episode, Ed talks about how he fell in love with jazz first hearing the music of Stan Kenton, his work with the Villanova Jazz Festival, a Stan Kenton 50th birthday radio show that Ed hosted back then (we've got clips!), how he met his wife, Marguerite (Marge), the music he plays at night on the piano, a wonderful anecdote on how the late Ellen Ruberto set the tone for starting the Pittsfield City Jazz Festival, the contributions of many passionate volunteers and board members, infusing jazz into the schools, developing young jazz talent and more. I hope you will enjoy my conversation with Ed Bride!

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

As an educator, she was drawn to what makes people tick rather than simply teaching the textbooks. Leigh Doherty was also inspired to coaching leadership because of what she saw as a common "absence of mentorship" for many, while re-examining common held beliefs the how a leader of an organization can interact with his or her team. Her career in education and her ultimate journey back to the Berkshires has her now leading Literary Network of Southern Berkshires (LitNet), with a small, but mighty, staff and 130 tutors who make a powerfully positive impact. In our conversation, we cover the economic impact of bringing English literacy to (primarily) immigrants to the Berkshires, the origin of the organization in the 1990s and how it has evolved rather significantly, new partnerships with public schools, younger tutors joining many of the traditionally retired volunteers, and much more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversations with Leigh Doherty.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

She was three years old when she realized that she had a gift, and as she evolved in her own life, so did her realization that she was meant to provide support and guidance to others. Through work with clients, workshops at venues like Kripalu, and mentoring others who have their own gifts, Jenna Reid is dedicated to helping people find their truth using her remarkable psychic gifts. "Every time you don't listen to your gut, it's a problem," says Jenna who decided to go all-in on her truth after going through a tumultuous time in her life. It was a lesson learned that not living your truth will likely lead to rough roads ahead. In this episode, we delve into her process and our energetic world, including trusting your intuition and validation, human connectedness and consciousness, finding peace, remote viewing, psychometry, stigmas surrounding psychic mediumship, growth through breakups and divorce, love and money, vibration, dealing with grief, grounding, staying in touch with nature, crystals, being a Mom of teenagers, protecting your energy, gratitude as the only path out of victim mode, karma, moving on, truth and authenticity and much more.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jenna Reid.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

You want a financial advisor who is cool under pressure and able to take excess emotion out of things, while maintaining an ability to execute. So, what better background than being a Green Beret? Kyle Bean earned his way onto the elite US Army Special Forces and served his nation on many missions over several years. Now that his military career has come to a close he decided to locate to the Berkshires with his wife and specialize in a new profession: financial advising. In this episode we get to know Kyle better, and learn about his journey here. We also cover a lot of ground with Kyle and Matt Chester of Tableaux Wealth in regard to the current economic situation, how to plan and adapt to the record inflation, the changes on returns on bonds and the death of the so-called 60/40 rule, chasing investments by Nancy Pelosi's husband and other "whales," learning from curious investors, growing a small firm and beginning to tell their story and how to make financial planning interesting and evening exciting for clients. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Kyle Bean and Matt Chester of Tableaux Wealth.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

With such a name, it may have seemed a self-fulfilling prophecy that America Lopez would ultimately find her way to the US from her native Mexico. Today, she is utilizing her experience as an immigrant to help others who are facing many of the same challenges she faced, as a community health worker for Volunteers in Medicine and as parent liaison for the Berkshire Hills Regional School District. And she's making a measurable impact. Inspired by the Moth Radio Hour-style of storytelling, America started a Spanish-speaking podcast and radio program Nomadas Radio that has evolved with several of her close friends and colleagues, contributing on relevant conversations on personal growth and demystifying mental health. We also discuss: missing her family in Mexico and carrying on family traditions with her new family of friends in the Berkshires, advocating for herself and co-workers in her early days before mastering English, one of the English first words she learned was "fair," working to change systems in schools to be more friendly for non-English speaking parents to help them be involved in their children's education, how her daughter helped her come out of her shell and making new connections in the community, Olivia's Outlook and enjoying trails and the outdoors in the Berkshires and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with America Lopez.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

For Brett Westbrook, being named a 2022 Commonwealth Heroine is indicative that her organization's work is making an impact. And it's hard to think of more impactful work than caring and educating 3 to 5 year olds, and setting the foundation of success for young people and their families. For Brett, her inspiration came during her childhood in Pittsfield when her own values and tenacity were shaped by mentors and teachers within the community's support system. Today, teaching resilience is a core piece of a holistic approach to education, which includes a healthy dose of play as learning and clinical social-emotional support. It's quite a time for Brett with her recent "Heroine" recognition, and by the way, she's also engaged to married and planning a wedding. Good times! Also, in our conversation, we cover: her early years in early childhood education as a 16 year old working at Girls Inc., early childhood educators not being paid what they're worth, challenges including language barriers and transportation, how the pandemic led to some innovation like smaller student cohorts, collaboration with the Pittsfield Public Schools including the early education career program at Taconic High School, what it's like planning a wedding, and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Brett Westbrook.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The road to 300+ games broadcast has been a long and winding one for Billy Madewell. Even before he started his tenure on the way to becoming the longest-serving play-by-play broadcaster in Wahconah Park history, it would have been hard to predict his path through the bowels of Taconic High School to the mound at Wahconah Park celebrating his milestone. After all, it all began with a nagging ankle injury - and ultimately a tumor in his foot - that kept him off the field and stumbling into what would become his new passion. It all started with encouragement from his friend Shane Reed, then some voice tracking, then a marathon live show at the old WTBR, to his promotion to student program director. He was floored when he had the chance to step into the booth for the former Pittsfield Colonials, and even more shocked when he got the call to do solo play-by-play for the then-new Pittsfield Suns in 2012. Over the past decade, Billy has established himself as a respected fixture for the organization and its fans, and also an enthusiastic mentor of young up-and-coming broadcasters learning the ropes. His commitment hasn't come without personal challenges, as he courageously shares in our conversation. Billy is a nurturing husband and father. Also in this episode, we cover: a thoughtful microanalytical critique of Joe Buck, Larry Kratka's pristine mustache, the difference between calling games on television and radio, the future of Wahconah Park, Phil Rizzuto's play-by-play in "Paradise by the Dashboard Lights," and putting the ego aside and "letting the moment come to you."

I hope you will enjoy my conversation with Billy Madewell.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Even in her earliest days as a photographer and an artist growing up in Santa Fe, Cassandra Sohn knew that she would open a fine art gallery. Just as she had a passion for her own evolving work as a photographer, shifting from editorial and commercial to fine art, she was incredibly inspired by the work of others. Sohn Fine Art is no stuffy gallery. It's a living, breathing space where artwork comes alive and artists are supported through workshops and more. We cover a lot of ground in this episode, including Cassandra's own artistry, including her two publications of photography, her move to the Berkshires some years ago, NFTs and how they are impacting the art world, Cassandra's philosophy background and schooling at St. John's College, the fine art of selling fine art, the community of Lenox, Mass. and the local creative economy, curating at Chesterwood with outdoor mixed media work, how water has inspired her artwork, being a Mother and how her daughter is picking up some of her Mom's skills as an artist and businessperson, and the Black Crowes at Tanglewood. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Cassandra Sohn.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

It's not the case of a doctor becoming a photographer. Instead, it's a lifelong photographer who became a physician and then returned to his roots. After putting the camera down to dedicate his entire time and focus on becoming a radiologist and building his practice, Eric Korenman rediscovered his passion of photography when his first child was born in 2000. This time, no one could take the camera out of his hands. Eric's passion for documenting, capturing the moment and sharing sheer authenticity has led to incredible new experiences, shoots with household names in comedy and show business, as well as lifelong friendships. His goal is for his subjects to "forget the camera is there" and he quips that his shoots are like a therapy session. The results speak for the themselves. Shooting some of the best comedians in the business in New York City began years ago because of Eric's pure audacity to simply reach out and ask them. Being the doctor photographer has never been part of his brand (many know him much better as a photographer than a physician), it sure did help, as he mended one famous comedian's infected toe. That's just one anecdote that Eric shares in our conversation. We also discuss how his passion for photography helped in his decision to choose radiology, which he calls the photography side of medicine, his evolution of work from landscapes to portraits as well as fine art, his friendship with the late Gilbert Gottfried and his family, the transition from film to digital over the years, his love of podcasts and old-time radio shows, NPR, WAMC and the spoken word, raising his children in the Berkshires and much more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Eric Korenman. Check out Eric’s work on his website: www.korenman.com

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The unmistakeable sound of Melissa Brinton is prolifically filling a good share of the Berkshire music scene, as she performs solo and in two additional groups. She's perhaps the busiest musician in the region. Ironically, it may have been during the lockdown that Melissa elevated to a new level as the pandemic encouraged innovation and greater creativity. Unable to play and perform in any public venue, Melissa took to social media taking requests. She responded to the requests for tunes that she likely never would have considered learning before, and put a beautiful spin on many of our favorites. That inspiration has led to an evolution of her own sound as she works on music for her third album. In this episode, Melissa performs new music that will be on her new album as well as a few covers that you're sure to love. We also cover Melissa's vocal education at Pittsfield High School under the legendary Gaylan Palmer, techniques for improving vocal performance, her Irish music repertoire, playing with Fanny Pack with Elaine Morel and Paul Armstrong, as well as Flight with Mary Verdi and Eileen Markland, recording with her Father and her musical brother, Christopher, folky versions of Frank Sinatra songs, inspiration from the Spotify algorithm and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation and the music of Melissa Brinton.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The man, the myth, the legend. Jim Campagna is one of my (perhaps unsung) heroes who made it possible for the long-running Good Morning Pittsfield radio show on WTBR to continue through long stretches during election cycles. However, some may not know that broadcasting is Jim's professional background and he DJ'ed at various stations, including WNAW/WMNB in North Adams when I met him. Somehow we managed quite successfully with a station (WTBR) that was essentially a hotbox in the summer months, regularly hitting 90 degrees, no wireless, and equipment that seemed to be hanging by a string. But it was fun, and we helped save the station that is today situated in more comfortable (perhaps air-conditioned) confines. Jim was a big part of that. Today, JIm and his wife, Kim, are regular cow bell ringing loyalists at Pittsfield Suns games, and you may find them crushing it in Karaoke at venues in the Berkshires. Afterall, that's where Jim took Kim on their first date, impressing her with his Jim Morrison-like vocals. We also cover the present and future of Wahconah Park, a trade for a Ken Griffey rookie card, the Berkshire Black Bears, Kevin Costner baseball movies, Val Kilmer, attributes of a television anchor, the art of a decent interview, his wedding in the Crane Room at the Berkshire Museum and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jim Campagna.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The "absolute favorite thing in the world" for Charles Harrigan to do is make people stronger. And at 5 a.m. every weekday morning, he shows his commitment by holding boot campers accountable to doing just that - making them stronger. And he has many loyal athletes who have been doing it for years with him finding their fittest selves. It all started for Charles after a back injury made it impossible for him to go back to his career in construction, and instead, he went back to school to become a certified Personal Fitness Trainer in 2009. Or, maybe his tenacity was forged even earlier when he spent some years of his childhood in third world living conditions in the British Virgin Islands, saying he has "good memories of being broke." Charles is a father, a motivator and a positive force in our community. In this episode, we cover his approach to personal training, the benefits and drawbacks of particular sports and activities, his Instagram handle "acidjester," playing Xbox, how he never ended up with a.desk job, his love of Pittsfield and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Charles Harrigan.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The exchange of positive energy. That's the vision Danielle Munn has for her retail space, which has already become a bit of a downtown hub. Witch Slapped is intended with the desire to create "nothing but healing." With a dedicated "healing room" and a workshop space, independent practitioners are being encouraged to reach out to Danielle to offer their services in her space. Sure, you can purchase crystals, moonstone necklaces and dreamcatchers (among other items at the store), but Danielle sees her store as a gathering space for conversations, ideas and building community. We also cover Danielle's remarkable journey following the sudden death of her spouse, living in a mobile home at the top of a mountain in New Hampshire, outsmarting the women's leggings market to get back on her feet financially, and finding a loyal partner (Gary, who happened to be from Pittsfield) and starting a wonderful new household in the Berkshires. It didn't happen by accident. We cover Danielle's work to manifest her vision through "goal digging" and consistent visualization, and the tenacity to shift from survival mode to thriving. Oh, by the way, Danielle and Gary have eight kids living with them, and each of them contribute to Witch Slapped in their own way. This a wonderful story of love, perseverance and love. I hope you'll enjoy my conversations with Danielle Munn, owner of Witch Slapped.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The innovative splice of intuition and fitness fundamentals is how Tariq Pinkston is carving his path to raising the vibration in the world around him. Growing up as an empath, or "feeler," as he was known in his family, was not always easy. However, Earthly angels, like his Mother, helped Tariq along the way and he's found his place in a focus on the mind, body and soul - calling himself a Wholistic Fitness Trainer (yes, the added 'W' is purposeful). We cover a lot of ground in this episode, including: the power of gratitude, frequency, vibration and energy, subconscious self-affirmations, chakras, meditation (this episode even includes an abbreviated guided meditation), being heart-centered, parenthood, overcoming childhood trauma, the destructive nature of holding grudges, and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Tariq Pinkston!

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Eric Durant is not going to let his golden opportunity slip away. Not a chance. Now retired after 25 years full-time at the Berkshire County Sheriff's Department (he still works traffic details from time to time), he's all-in on his acting career. It is a dream he's had since his Mother utilized Shakespeare to help young Eric master his speech through a childhood stutter. His love of acting and performing took him to Los Angeles in the 1980s before coming back to settle down in the Berkshires to raise his family. Recently, Eric has been acting in productions throughout the Northeast. He even landed a role during a traffic detail and a serendipitous meeting with a director in the middle of the road. Now a grandfather, we cover a lot of ground, including growing up as the son of community legends Rev. Willard and Rosemary Durant, his own spiritual journey, some politics, and a life-changing health scare that told him it was now or never to follow his dream. We also talk about his days at the Berkshire County House of Correction and the ongoing challenges of providing the kind of services and treatment that will support inmates to succeed once they are free and back in the community. **Spoiler alert: We also talk about the season finale of Obi-Wan Kenobi (Eric is a big Star Wars fan), the effort to honor his parents by the renovation and renaming of Durant Park (with props to Eddie Taylor), and much more.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Eric Durant.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

When Mike Daly puts his attention and focus on something, he's all in...as in 15 hours a day for 10 years straight, all in, as he did playing drums on his path to record for top bands and labels. Mike's journey to It's Pittsfield Tonight was a remarkable and winding road, from the foster system, to times living without a home in Pittsfield and in Florida, to the tumultuous world of being a heavy and death metal drummer. Saying he felt like he was in "survival mode" from the age of 11, Mike found himself in his craft. We explore his work ethic and his rise and setbacks in the music industry, his surprising transition to success in sales, marriage and divorce, and coming back to Pittsfield. We also discuss his complicated relationship with his late father. The two reconciled two decades ago and were very close until his father passed recently. It's Pittsfield Tonight started out as a variety show and evolved as Mike found that advocating on key issues resonated with many people in the community. I truly enjoyed my conversation with Mike, and I hope you will, too.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The challenges for health care workers over the past three years have been well-documented. For public health nurses, the pandemic presented an entirely new level of responsibilities in, often, uncharted territory. Jill Sweet served as both a school nurse and the Public Health Nurse for Tri-Town Health and the Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative during these years. Our conversation includes a look back at some of the policies that worked and some that didn't, as well as a variety of other public health issues, including: Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses, food safety and the health of our senior citizens. In addition, Jill is a certified Child Safety Passenger Technician ushering in a program that helps families ensure carseats are installed properly. Further, the Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative has a large supply of grant-funded carseats that are free for families that our income-eligible. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jill Sweet.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Leigh Davis is the rarest of elected officials. She was sworn-in and promptly made a measurable impact on the community she represents. Most recently, the short-term rental bylaw she spearheaded was approved amid a lively public debate that included defeating the likes of Airbnb and other powerful business interests. It was a win for those standing up for the character of residential neighborhoods and as a firewall in the evermore challenging effort to protect the already minuscule number of affordable housing units in a town like Great Barrington. In our conversation, we discuss the dynamics of the town meeting victory on short-term units in GB, the importance of developing a thick skin in the political arena, and the self-awareness to do what you believe is right in the face of sometimes harsh criticism and attacks. We also discuss her upbringing and her relationship with her late father, Lloyd Davis, who carved his own legacy in housing and civil rights in the US - and in particular - was instrumental establishing the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday and carrying on his legacy. Leigh's journey to Great Barrington was a long and winding one, starting at film school in Ithaca to a decade in LA, editing films for Dreamworks and Steve Spielberg, Law and Order and more. Then, right at the height of her career, she turned on a dime and moved to rural Ireland. Even finding her way to Great Barrington was serendipitous, as it began with getting stuck in the snow and unable to get out of town. The happy accident has led to this mother of three committing fully to strengthening the GB and southern Berkshire community. One day, she even dreams of opening a little establishment in town where people can gather, enjoy each other's company and....dance (it would likely include a disco ball, which Leigh is clearly a fan of!). I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Leigh Davis.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

These two have been through thick and thin and it’s a friendship that has added greater variety and flavor to the Berkshire business scene and our community. Jim Bronson and Matt Mottor met nearly 15 years ago and the instant friendship notably led to the creation of a wildly popular Beerfest, which crushed it with tens of thousands of attendees before the pandemic put a damper on it. The pandemic also led to the reinvention of Jim’s career. After his company of many decades let him go in the midst of restrictions and lockdowns, Jim launched into a franchise Your CBD Store. Similarly, Matt has evolved in his career moving into his own business Berkshire Culinary Group, notably, supporting Shire Breu House providing the food side of the operation. Jim chips in as well on trivia night, and all in all, these two are an inseparable team. Our conversation also includes: Jim and Matt meeting during their time at Sodexo, how the pandemic impacted them, the evolution of the cannabis industry, the particulars of the differences between hemp and marijuana, advertising limitations in the industry, the crushing challenge of inflation (particularly for restaurants), the economics of locally grown food and the tipping point of competitiveness due to inflation vs. imported corporate food, Matt making maple syrup as a child, *John not getting the joke on how many gallons of beer it takes to make a gallon of maple syrup, CBD for pets, Matt's inspiration to become a chef, and much more!

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jim Bronson and Matt Mottor!

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Who do candidates call when they want opposition research on their opponents? While you're at it, you better do research on yourself as a candidate and face up to your own skeletons! Matt Barron has been lit up by politics ever since he canvassed for anti-Vietnam War congressional candidate Father Robert Drinan in 1970. Drinan won and made his mark on Capitol Hill and across the country, meanwhile, Barron has made his impact behind the scenes, working for countless candidates and causes over the past four decades. We unpack opposition research and how transparency typically benefits candidates, and how, most often, stubbornness does not benefit them. We take a look at the (to this point) extraordinarily quiet race for governor in Massachusetts, Maura Healey's frontrunner status, and how she may break the electoral curse of the attorney general position in Massachusetts (the list of losses for higher office is long: Martha Coakley, Tom Reilly, Scott Harshbarger, etc.) We also cover the severe lack of transparency on Beacon Hill, a trend toward secret deliberations, and the authoritarian nature of the house speaker. In addition our conversation includes: the dwindling number of reporters covering politics and the negative impact to transparency and increase in puff pieces, the contrast between former Congressman John Oliver and current Congressman Richard Neal, Super PACs, an increasing number of Republican registrations in Massachusetts, National Democrats' inability to connect with rural voters, the massive impact that inflation will have on the 2022 election cycle, the Fair Share effort in Massachusetts, how a lot of the joy has been taken out of campaigns because of the cutthroat nature of politics today on the national level, and we cover Matt's exhibit of photographs of Northeast U.S. Post Offices taken from 1965 to 2021 now on display at the Spellman Museum in Weston, Massachusetts, and much more!

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Matt Barron.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Inspiration personified. Ty Allan Jackson's relentless optimism and grit was molded into his soul growing up in the Bronx, during an electric era of scary excitement. "I wouldn't trade my childhood for anything in the world," Ty says about his youth in the Bronx, when hip-hop was conceived, the Yankees were rock stars, and he followed his loving mother's footsteps (and bookshelf) as a "ferocious reader." It would be decades later when he found his true calling when he discovered that there was no published book to adequately support his son's entrepreneurial spirit. This, following an auspicious opening of his lemonade stand at the corner of Dexter and Elm Street. Just as the Bronx forged his core, he credits the Berkshires and Pittsfield for facilitating his success as an author, calling it a "magical" place. "What you do here makes a difference." We cover a lot of territory in this conversation, including: Ty's professional career before becoming an author, working in sales, the early days of hip-hop culture in the Bronx, the world champion Bronx Bombers (Ty can still name the starting lineup of the '77 squad), his early reading, beginning with Native Son by Richard Wright, getting rejected by every single publishing company and then self-publishing, the remarkable lack of financial literacy in U.S. public schools (and how is this possible?), Read or Else, Noelle Santos and The Lit. Bar, organic reach with Instagram Reels, effectively utilizing social media to convert volume to sales, creating the mindset needed to consistently create content, receiving a doctorate from Mass. College of LIberal Arts, taking the leap from a stable corporate job to an independent author, and much more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Ty Allan Jackson.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Taking the leap from being a successful attorney in the city to a financial advisor in the Berkshires would have daunting to many. But for Matthew Chester it was all about actually building a real relationship with his clients, something missing in the narrow focus of being a specialized financial attorney in New York City. As his career path shifted, so did his personal life, as he and his wife Catherine are raising two young daughters Leah and Zoe at home in Stockbridge. In our conversation we cover Matt's decision to shift from law to financial advising, his time in Taipei, Mandarin as a second language, sunk cost, psychology in investing and finances, inflation, the housing market, the permanent and not-so-permanent changes post-pandemic, wages, labor vs. corporate profits, corporate responsibility, college planning, retirement, Malcolm Gladwell's research of dynamics in elite colleges, 529 plans, the origin of the name: Tableaux, the Levi Strauss principle, growing up near Seattle, his pull to the East Coast, meeting his wife at Cardozo Law School in NYC, work/life balances in the Berkshires, fatherhood, the art of parenting, how financial advisors get paid, broker model vs. investment advisor, and more.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Matthew Chester.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

The love of beer and the magic of the pub. Sarah Real and Mike Dell'Aquila have been together since their days at Penn State, and since, through their days in New York City, traveling around the world and now finding their ways to the Berkshires - they are now fulfilling their dream to open a brewery. Hot Plate Brewing Co. is expected to open on North Street this fall. Meanwhile, the couple is busy telling their story through community, creative social media content and, of course, developing exceptional brews. In our conversation we cover the early days and early inspiration in their days at Penn State, a cross country trip, speaking the language of beer internationally, the universal magic of the pub, making beer in a tiny New York apartment, the incredible origin story of the Hot Plate name, extract vs. all-grain brews, Sarah's Mexican American heritage and its importance in this industry today, their journey to the Berkshires, falling in love with North Street, the business model for Hot Plate, documenting their journey, German Reinheitsgebot, craft beer as punk rock, beer bros., the three-tier distribution system for beer, shelf wars, quality control, beer telling the story of a culture, the visibility of the brewing process in downtown and an intuitive dog.

I hope you'll enjoy my conversion with Mike and Sarah!

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

How do you measure the impact one person has made. You may not ever be able to truly measure that now, or even in years to come. Dan "The Man" Joslyn has dedicated his career to being a mentor, a teacher, a safe haven to so many young people in their most impressionable years - instilling values, accountability and equipping with the invaluable tools needed to live one's best life. As an adopted son and growing up in a household with 15 brothers and sisters, Dan's understanding of being there for one another was innate. He has had incredible challenges and lessons, after a serious car accident left him with a traumatic brain injury and other serious injuries from the crash, Dan persevered through physical and occupational therapy to, ultimately, fully recover. And then, the unthinkable, his big brother, Ben, was killed in a car accident. In our conversation, we talk about how these experiences have shaped him as a man, and how Ben is still with him as he continues to learn lessons in life. As Dan moves onto his next adventure in eastern Massachusetts, we discuss his time as the program director at the Boys and Girls Club and more, including: instilling accountability in young people, providing a safe haven particularly during the pandemic and the lockdown, the power of small changes that lead to completely new paths in life, being present, outside validation on social media vs. self-awareness, understanding your true friends and a trusted inner circle, listening to listen vs. listening to respond, how just one coach and/or mentor can make all the difference, coaching AAU, the joys of T-Ball and Coaches Pitch baseball, the disproportionately large number of young people the Pittsfield Boys and Girls Club serves every single day compared to other clubs around the country, the trend of specialization in youth sports and how we ought to rethink that to provide more well-rounded athletic experiences for kids, taking a chance like the Boys & Girls Club took a chance on him. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Dan "The Man" Joslyn.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Steve Chessare's career is a story of true passion for an industry that began when he was just seven years old listening day and night on his transistor radio, and his love has only grown stronger since. Even at times when it seemed as though his professional life could have gone in more traditional, stable directions, radio always proved to be his true path. Whether it was the neighbor down the street who helped him get his first professional radio job at WBEC in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, or the persistent recruiter who finally revealed that the seemingly uninteresting HR job she was pitching to Steve was, in fact, for the parent company of NBC radio in New York City, or most important, when his late father told him that he ought follow his dream to work in radio, even when it didn't seem to be the most lucrative path - radio is simply in Steve's blood. There have been many highlights and twists and turns, including the most recent realized dream of Steve taking ownership of a cluster stations on Cape Cod: WFRQ-FM/Harwich Port, WHYA-FM/Mashpee, WPXC-FM/Hyannis, WKFY-FM/East Harwich, which he hopes to be just the start of a growing company, Coxswain Communications. In our conversation, we cover a lot of ground, including the mentorship of his late father Mr. Joseph Chessare, who served as the VP of Beloit Corporation, the trust factor of local radio that distinguished itself as local TV's trustworthiness has eroded, how the large players in the industry have begun to realize the importance of locally-focused content, which was only further highlighted by the pandemic, the art of great programming in radio, Steve earning a reputation as a fixer for troubled companies in the industry, the opportunity for radio to be personal and intimate with the audience, his start in radio at Fairfield University, the early days at WBEC in Pittsfield and WPYX 106.6 in Albany, working for a defense contractor while moonlighting on the airwaves, a remarkable run in HR roles that brought him into NYC and back into radio, being recruited into a position prepping for the firing of Howard Stern, a leap into sales, massive, record-breaking success at CBS Radio in NYC, the turnaround of Westwood One audio network, and finally closing on ownership of radio stations on the Cape and his hope to own some stations closer to home in the Berkshires. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Steve Chessare.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Early on, Caroline Fairweather knew that she was going to be on stage and would be doing it for years to come. From her earliest days in a production at the former Berkshire Theatre Festival as a child, shining in the golden era of Taconic High School's Theatre program under the legendary Jess Passetto, as a theatre major at Williams College to now headlining with roles in the Theatre Barn, Barrington Stage Company and Williamstown Theatre Festival, among others - she's following her passion with all she's got. In our conversation, we cover her training in the Suzuki acting method, self-awareness and being yourself in an industry where its counterintuitive to do so, work at the Forest of Arden company, making virtual Zoom performance work during the pandemic, open mic at the old J.Allen's with Mike Duffy, karaoke at NYC in K-town, upcoming performances this summer in Boston Marriage and Fiddler's Three at the Theatre Barn and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf in Connecticut, choosing to audition in NYC or the Berkshires for "summer stock" productions, artistic directors who operate food trucks, the nightmare of doing your taxes as an actor after working for a variety of different companies in a given year, following your dream in NYC in a "rich kid's game," giving it her all and enjoying every moment. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Caroline Fairweather.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Jacquelyn Sykes experienced the unthinkable five years ago when her boyfriend, Daniel Gillis, was shot and killed by a police officer after she called the authorities to help him. Following Gillis' death she fought for changes in the way Pittsfield Police respond to those in crisis, such as those in a mental health crisis. The community is now again engaged in this dialogue following the police shooting death of Miguel Estrella on March 25th. Once again, it was the victim's girlfriend who called authorities for help and the outcome was a death of a man in crisis. While there were many differences between the two incidents, the similarities are striking - men experiencing a mental health crisis with a knife in hand, both men were shot when they allegedly came at the respective officers. In both cases, internal PPD investigations indicated* that the officers were justified in the shootings according to use of force protocols. * The investigation on Mr. Estrella's case has not yet concluded In our conversation we cover a variety of topics, including: body cameras, crisis response clinicians, rethinking community response teams, police citizen advisory/oversight, and more. Like each of the conversations on these issues, I hope this episode with Jacquelyn is helpful in the effort to lead to solutions that would lead to changes that would help us avoid these types of tragic outcomes in the future.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

At 24, 17 years of Cheyenne VanBramer's life has included the Youth Alive Step Team. From her first day deciding to join as a student at Conte Community School when she described herself as "very shy" to today as a powerful instructor in the program, Cheyanne has seen so many other steppers grow in their skills and self-esteem as she from this remarkable program. In our interview we cover what step is, maybe an "acapella of dance" as she likens it, how live audiences become a part of the performances, the high-energy nature of step, the self-confidence that performers attain, Cheyenne continuing step during her time at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. We also highlight her role as an art teacher in an after school program in the Pittsfield Schools, thoughts on better integrating art into the school day and in our lives, as well as her own art in drawing, chalk pastel and interpretation of still life and the human form. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Cheyenne.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Since Miguel Estrella was shot and killed by Pittsfield Police on March 25th, the community has been engaged in the conversation on how this incident happened, and what needs to change to avoid this type of incident from happening again.

My conversation with Chief Michael Wynn is intended to be productive in this ongoing dialogue and in finding and supporting changes that would lead to a more effective framework in responding to a crisis, such as was the case with Mr. Estrella.

To be clear, there are details in the PPD’s recently released preliminary investigation that are disputed by Mr. Estrella’s family, and there is an investigation by the district attorney that is ongoing.

With that said, this conversation with Chief Wynn includes: changes in training, equipment and protocol since the Daniel Gillis shooting in 2017, taser policies and training, state regulations and lack thereof as it relates to use of high level force, “civil commitment” parameters, the impact that the availability of time and space (area) has on use of force scenarios, the role of the district attorney’s investigation in this case as it relates to any possible criminal responsibility by the officer(s), how other communities and states approach use of force investigations, 911 driven response system and police involvement to declare safety at a scene, co-mingling of clinicians and police officers on crisis calls, staffing challenges and lack of trained clinicians to do community response crisis work, and more.

Again, I hope this conversation is helpful, as I know we all share a common goal to respond to people in crisis more effectively and safely.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Justin Allen's motto for his work is very simple, it's to "make cool stuff." Sounds simple, and yet, his passion for life and his art has taken him on an extraordinary path from the Wilson Projects to Amherst College, New Zealand where he met his wife, back to the Berkshires where he carved his path as a filmmaker. And, oh yeah, he's also an exceptional musician...and bartender. He's a husband, a father and an artist. We cover a lot of ground in this interview, including his filmmaking style and inspiration, various projects that have taken him places he never dreamed of, backing up his video files! the CAGED guitar method, growing up on Linden Street and in the Wilson Projects and seeing different worlds spending time with his stepdad in Williamstown, parenthood and how his own childhood informs his approach, the power of making a concrete decision and manifesting, creative freedom, opportunities for working feature films in the Berkshires, interpretation of dreams, the Waldorf School philosophy, his time in New Zealand, trekking cross country to promote his T-shirt company, being broke and bouncing back, bartending at Methuselah's, ideas for Pittsfield and the downtown, reigniting momentum, balancing new investment and gentrification, the carousel, bowling alleys, large parties and events as a business model and more!

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Justin Allen.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

A groundbreaking study on redlining in the city of Pittsfield shows that this community was not immune to the discriminatory practices in housing and banking for people of color, particularly for African Americans, although, not limited to African Americans. The study was presented by the NAACP, Berkshire County Branch in April 2022. You can hear the audio version of the presentation here, along with a story by WAMC-Northeast Public Radio. I had the opportunity to speak to two individuals intimately involved in this research, including Dr. Frances Jones-Sneed – who spearheaded much of this work years back. In addition, community advocate and historian Kamaar Taliaferro shares some very specific anecdotes from his thorough research on one particular neighborhood that was not only impacted by redlining but essentially obliterated by urban renewal in West Pittsfield. Serendipitously, as the report was being finalized, a once mythical redlining map in Pittsfield was discovered in the National Archives. That’s where we begin the conversation with Dr. Jones-Sneed. Frances Jones-Sneed is a professor of history (Ph.D., University of Missouri) and former Director of Women Studies at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, Massachusetts. Jones-Sneed has taught and researched local history for over twenty-five years. She directed three National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) grants entitled “The Shaping Role of Place in African American Biography” in 2006 and “Of Migrations and Renaissances: Harlem/NY & South Side/Chicago, 1915–75” in 2008, and "African American Biography" on 2011, all “We the People” projects. She spearheaded a national conference on African American biography in September 2006, is co-director of the Upper Housatonic Valley African American Heritage Trail, a former board member of MassHumanities, and is presently a member of the Samuel Harrison Society. She was a 2008 NEH Summer Fellow at the W. E. B. Du Bois Institute at Harvard University and is currently editing the autobiography of a 19th century local minister, Samuel Harrison and working on a monograph about W.E.B. Du Bois. Kamaar Taliaferro is a lifelong resident of Pittsfield, Ma. born and raised in subsidized housing. He graduated from Pittsfield High School in 2011 and was awarded a Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship, and attended Williams College from 2011 to 2014. I provided editing, analysis, and writing for the 2020 Black Economic Council’s Idea Jam Success Report. Kamaar is a co-steward of Growing Legends–a project which seeks to develop an Urban Nursery and Youth Forestry Corp in Pittsfield and to inform new ways of communal gathering and collaborating utilizing art and gardening. In 2021 and early 2022, he was a fellow lead researcher on a case study of the Westside neighborhood in Pittsfield, examining the historical record for the presence, and investigating the ongoing effects of redlining in New England’s mill towns. Currently, Kamaar chairs the standing committee on Housing for the NAACP, Berkshire County Branch, and is one of a growing handful of Farmers of Color in Berkshire County. You can often find me in Pittsfield at his urban farm tending to and being tended by the earth.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

What a pleasure to sit down again with author, columnist and brilliant storyteller, Kevin O'Hara. His new book, The Ins and Outs of a Locked Ward, paints a beautiful and authentic picture of the Jones Unit at Berkshire Medical Center where he worked for several decades. In our conversation, we explore his journey becoming a nurse and what it was like to be the "male nurse" in the 1970s, how his dear Missy (his beloved donkey) served as an inspiration to approach his work in the ward differently and for better outcomes, how he met his lovely wife, Belita, how he earned the nicknames "Kevlar," "Nurse-Lite" and the "Bearded Nurse," and much, much more.

By the way, Kevin has a book launch gathering Sunday, May 1st from noon to 6 pm at Patrick's Pub in Pittsfield. It's sure to be a beautiful gathering of old friends and great stories. See you there!

I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Kevin O'Hara.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Starting out as a self-described goth adjacent teen, Joe Durwin found himself fascinated far more by cemeteries than the library and other traditional research, as he developed his passion for the less glamorous (but equally as fascinating) side of history in the Berkshires. This episode takes a slightly epic journey from the Shakers' occult side, the paranormal, our cherry-picked tourist friendly history, Joe's research methods, the freewheeling and oftentimes more salacious journalism in the newspapers of the day (including the former Pittsfield Evening Journal, Pittsfield Sun, Pittsfield Courier, among others), pre-Bigfoot sightings, factors on the creation of ethnic neighborhoods in the city, O.B. Joyful, the Fighting Parson, Allen family, Rev. Samuel Harrison, red-lining in Pittsfield, mass exhumation of former cemeteries in downtown Pittsfield, the Wahconah/Nessacus myth, the sinking/rising boat at Allendale, urban renewal's impact on Coltsville, Plunkett School, demolition delay orders, Taco Bell, the Community Preservation Act, and a whole lot more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Joe Durwin.

Berkshire-based writer Joe Durwin's "These Mysterious Hills" has run on a regular basis for over than a decade, first in the former Advocate Weekly, and iBerkshires.com, along with his local history column Sagas of the Shire. His work on folklore of the region has also been featured in Fate Magazine, Haunted Times, the North Adams Transcript, William Shatner’s “Weird or What”, Jeff Belanger's "New England Legends," MSG Films’ “Bennington Triangle,” and numerous other programs for television, radio, and web. His business The Home Historian aims to connect people with the history of their property, neighborhood and community in a more direct and meaningful way.

Check out Joe's walking tours, beginning May 2022.

TheseMysteriousHills.com

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Taylor has made it her mission to inspire families to go outdoors and soak in the natural beauty, as well as documenting the inevitable challenges that come along with family hikes. And she and her family walk the walk - most literally! Berkshire Family Hikes began in 2019 and Taylor and her husband, Dan, decided they were going to do this thing! And countless hikes later, she has documented it all: the good, the bad, and sometimes, ugly, in a beautiful mash-up that is family life out on the trails.

We cover a solid amount in this episode from tip #1: always have enough snacks! and a whole lot more, including Constitution Trail in Lanesboro, The Boulders, Springside Park, Monument Mountain trail, Appalachian Trail, the Taco Bell chopped into ledge at the Boulders' Pittsfield trailhead (mmmm, crunchy Gorditas :/), the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, trails at Onota Lake, Taylor's entrepreneurship with Berkshire Family Hikes and Berkshire Macaroni Kids, marketing and selling content, her career turns, Instagram content, being authentic and finding your tribe, growing up in Dalton and starting a family in the Berkshires, "sky showers," forest bathing, being in the moment, immune system benefits of being barefoot in the grass and dirt, being heart-centered, being grounded, finding your form of meditation, climbing a tree, allowing children to challenge themselves and assessing risk on their own, tripping over roots, landing flat on your face and just going for it!

Taylor Staubach is the founder of Berkshire Family Hikes, an organization on a mission to inspire families to get outdoors in the Berkshires and beyond.

Born and raised in the Berkshires, she is now a mom raising her kids here while, researching, writing, and rambling about the Berkshire Hills.

Primarily an online resource, BFH offers family-focused trail reviews, place-based nature activities, child-paced hiking opportunities, and more. BFH also partners on the ground with local organizations such as Berkshire Natural Resources Council and South Berkshire Kids to provide engaging programs to encourage children to get outside and explore!

Berkshire Family Hikes is dedicated to being the go-to community resource for family-focused outdoor recreation in the Berkshires.

Berkshire Family Hikes website

Berkshire Macaroni Kid website

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

We cover a lot of territory in this episode, including trivia, restaurants and nightlife, dive bars, life through the pandemic, Flicker, Best Buy, Nikon, Canon, shooting weddings and sporting events, iPhones and Androids, social media and the lame algorithms on Facebook and Instagram, blockchain, NFTs, web3, VR, AR, Metaverse, Pokemon Go, Roblox, crypto, Elon Musk, the union movement, Amazon workers, wages, legal insider trading by politicians, great advice for young photographers, FB Marketplace, Craigslist, the radio industry and the value of radio stations, the rejuvenated Allendale Shopping Center and more. Marc J. Wrzesinski, based in Pittsfield, MA, is a freelance photographer with versatile skill-set. Noted for his Wedding and Editorial work, Marc focuses on creating images that stay with you -- and make you want to return to them again and again. Marc has worked in multiple disciplines of photography including sports and photojournalism all to sharpen his skills and deliver the best possible work for his clients. When Marc isn't working, he can be found competing in 5ks and other races; and hunting for the next great beer from local craft brewers. To keep up with Marc, follow his Instagram or check out the Blog.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Mayor Kim Driscoll has served for 16 years as the chief executive for the city of Salem, Massachusetts and she is now running for statewide office, throwing her hat in the ring to become Lt. Governor. She stopped by the studio on her way to a forum in North Adams, and we covered a lot of ground, including: inflation and wages, the reinvigorated union movement, police accountability following the shooting death of Miguel Estrella by Pittsfield Police, funding for Gateway Communities, and for hilltowns with an immense amount of state-owned property, as well as some innovative ideas to better leverage tourism dollars for communities – as has been done in Salem.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Stephanie Murray’s passion for covering government and politics has taken her from capturing the details at board meetings in small towns like Shutesbury, Massachusetts as an intern at Daily Hampshire Gazette, to the statehouse, then with Politico where she moved from writing the Massachusetts Playbook to today in DC, as the author of Politico’s Morning Score – solely focused on the campaigns in the midterm elections.

We focus on her approach to coverage, between the so-called horse races and the issues driving the themes in these races.

One of the biggest issues on voters minds is: inflation, which right or wrong, is being blamed on the Democratic president with weak approval ratings, all impacting races for House and Senate seats.

We cover a possible shakeup in the Democratic Presidential Nominating contest (will Iowa and NH still be the first states?), and we cover the interesting dynamics of statewide elections in Massachusetts in a year with an open seat for governor. It’s a great chat.

I hope you’ll enjoy my conversation with Stephanie Murray from Politico.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

This one is bittersweet. What can you say about the impact that Megan Whilden made during her time in the Berkshires, and specifically, in her time as the director of cultural development for the city of Pittsfield? It was a time that we believed anything was possible, envisioned ourselves as the greatest small city in the Northeast, "Brooklyn of the Berkshires," (coined by Megan herself), and, most certainly, filling the center of the former so-called “donut hole” in this culturally-rich region. Much of that progress was due to Megan’s unlimited energy, endless optimism and ability to break-through the previously-accepted perceptions of what the small post-industrial city of Pittsfield, Massachusetts was, and was not. As she departs to return to her native Monterey, California her contribution will not soon be forgotten…and it’s now on all of us to recommit and recognize how truly investing in our people, the power of arts and culture, and lifting each other up can elevate an entire community. I hope you’ll enjoy my conversation with Megan.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

For the love of dance.

Olivia Martin is one of those individuals who has been successful at making her passion her full time career.

Her love of dance began early and, importantly, was encouraged by her parents who didn’t dissuade her from pursuing dance as her occupation.

And she passes that joy on to her students of all ages and abilities- including her innovative work with those with disabilities through the nonprofit Community Access to the arts.

I hope you’ll enjoy my conversation with Olivia.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Just like many other citizens in Berkshire County, I want to learn more about the candidates who are seeking to be the next district attorney. It just so happens that I get to have my conversation recorded and shared out to you. The last time I sat across from Tim Shugrue, and interviewed him, it was in the studio at WNAW in North Adams in 2004 when he ran for DA. Like back then, our recent conversation was clear, we touched upon many of the issues (not all of them, for sure) – there's not too much fuss or muss. This interview is about 49 minutes. I hope that it is helpful as we all get to know the candidates running for this important office.

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

How do you possibly measure the impact that someone has made on the lives of so many. It’s hard to think of anyone as beloved and respected as Eleanore Garcia, my dear friend, who was the one who has helped so many people, particularly immigrants to our community. She has helped people bridge the gap to find their potential and open the doors of opportunity and new possibilities. For many years she was the head of multicultural affairs at Berkshire Community College, but it’s not the title or even the number of lives she’s changed that is so meaningful. She leads with heart, she leads with love, and because of that care and dedication, she’s leaving the community with others who she has inspired to carry on her legacy.

I hope you’ll enjoy my conversation with Eleanore Garcia.

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Imagine the perplexed look on the face of the typical commercial loan officer at your local bank, when hearing the business plan for a new local access network gaming center. Ryan Senecal has created the first of its kind around these parts, tapping into a massive market of gamers – and gamers who have a desire to connect, compete and be a part of a wider community. And, yes, Ryan did find a banker who did finally get the concept and he was able to get the startup money to open up. He's also had some other unexpected alignments along the way. I hope you’ll enjoy my conversation with Ryan, the owner of Boosted Lounge – Social Gaming and Esports in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. Boosted Lounge website from the Boosted website: Mission Statement Boosted Lounge aims to establish, grow, and foster a community of passionate gamers in an environment built from the ground up for them. About Us Ever since the Shushei pop-off in the League of Legends Season 1 World Finals, we knew esports were going to be big. As Counterstrike, Hearthstone, Rocket League, and other game scenes developed over the years, we chanted T-S-M, witnessed Firebat capture a world championship, and watched HungryBox sleep everyone at EVO. The hype was real and we shared it with all of Twitch chat. Now it’s time to share our passion for gaming and esports with the community of Berkshire County. Boosted Lounge is the only place where you can play, talk, and watch your favorite esports with others in the area.

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Crispina ffrench is a true pioneer in the work that has defined her career, recycling used textile materials to create amazing new things. For 35 years she has bucked the fast clothing trend that rules within our consumer culture. However, the quality of most clothing in our consumer economy is cheap, not high-quality, and not healthy for us to wear (microfibers, etc.). Our interview explores the beginning of Crispina's journey 35 years ago, her complex relationship with her parents that pushed her to new experiences and new heights, her purchasing and renovating a former Catholic Church in Pittsfield, Massachusetts - changing her business model, and dealing with the challenges of working with City Hall. Today, she continues her passion by teaching others how to find their own niche in this industry she loves.

From Crispina's website:

I am an environmental optimist and textile alchemist upcycling discarded clothing and manufacturers’ waste since my college days in the 80’s. It all started when working my way through art school, prompted by a need to make money around two other jobs and a full-time class schedule; oh and a deep love of making with my hands and reverence of our natural environment.

Ragamuffins got me through art school, setting me on my magical, life-long self-employment path. I'm not gonna lie, the path has not always been smooth. After realizing I was eligible for food stamps (while employing 40 people) I decided it was time to get serious about making money.

Building awareness of our textile waste problem without blame, anxiety, or panic; Promoting environmental support that nurtures us humans too; Inspiring others to wrap their heads around the effect of their consumption, but more, the effect of their positive action, are the things that rock my world most, oh and making money.

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Bret Bero is not a typical politician. He's never run for office before now, and he really seems to care about delivering practical solutions for families and small businesses, which were impacted severely in so many cases by COVID. And specifically, the COVID protocols were often devastating to small businesses. He’s longtime business owner himself, a consultant who helps struggling businesses find their mojo again, and find success again, he’s faculty at Babson College. He’s a husband, a Dad and seems like a pretty cool guy. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Bret Bero, he’s running for LT governor. Bret's campaign website Bret's Bio from the Babson website: Bret Bero is a Lecturer in the Management Division of Babson College, where he teaches Strategy, Strategic Problem Solving, Management Consulting, Leading Business Turnarounds, and Disruptive Change and Business Transformation to Undergraduate and Graduate students. He also teaches in the Executive Education programs.

Prior to joining the Babson Faculty in August 2016, Mr. Bero was a Managing Director at American Capital, Ltd., were he led middle market private equity portfolio companies in formulating investment strategies, driving operational improvements, enhancing financial performance, and achieving successful exits. He has served as Chairman of two portfolio companies, CEO of five portfolio companies, and on the Board of 12 companies. Mr. Bero has conducted business diligence on over 30 potential acquisitions, including several that resulted in a successful transaction. He developed American Capital's Acquisition Integration toolkit, and the executive transition process operating standard.

Mr. Bero has over 18 years of increasing leadership roles in world class consulting firms. He was hired as President of the North America region for DBM, a leading provider of career transition services. As a Partner at Accenture (formerly Andersen Consulting), he developed the Organization Strategy service offering, and was a member of the team that won Andersen Consulting's Kenneth Earnst Strategy Thought Leadership award for work on alliance management. Mr. Bero was a Vice President who led multi-discipline project teams in addressing business transformation, business strategy, and organization change issues for clients in the Diversified Industries/Diversified Services industry group at Gemini Consulting. While with Price Waterhouse, Mr. Bero led engagements addressing portfolio strategy, business turnarounds, organization effectiveness, and financial effectiveness issues. His clients have included firms such as Marriott, Highmark BlueCross/BlueShield of Western PA, Ferguson Enterprises, Bausch & Lomb, National Services Industries, Lanier, General Motors, Tupperware, Harry & David, KeyCorp, IBM, New York Life, and International Thomson.

Mr. Bero and a business school classmate acquired ECHO Industries, Inc., a small lot deep draw metal forming manufacturing company, in a leveraged buy-out. The business was sold in 2019.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Oh man, I don’t remember an interview that required this much post-editing, but Jason Marby, after all, is the producer of a comedy showcase called Uncensored. He hosts three of them in different locations every month. He started 7 years ago on stage doing standup and has never looked back.

But, he’s more than that…he’s a single Dad raising a 15 year old, he works hard, has fun and over the last two years, has added a new flavor to nightlife in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts.

And…in spite of all the editing I had to do before rolling out this episode, Jason is still really, really funny!

I hope you enjoy this conversation with Jay.

Jason can be found on social media:

His FB page

His IG page

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

In Part 2 we unpack how George was able to get the copyright for the term "Currency" - at least for hot beverages....and this Currency, is actually worth something these days. Also, how is he able to use the design for all that money (at least the pre-Federal Reserve notes) in the Currency Coffee branding and packaging. It's a great story!

Sure, this guy has built a successful coffee roasting company with a brilliant branding strategy, blending the familiar images of the money, American currency printed in Dalton, Massachusetts. But, that doesn't scratch the surface of George's life and experience in the food service and restaurant industry. Growing up in a family that lived and breathed the industry, he served massive parties at Churchill Downs, owned his own restaurants - sold them - and did his share of consulting for other eateries. In my two part episode with George we do a little autopsy on the restaurant industry in the Berkshires post-pandemic protocols, which was devastating to many small businesses, how his business was almost roasted (a-hem, sorry) by the pandemic, inner workings of Currency Coffee, the Currency branding concept, and the economics of coffee. Coffee has a lot more in common with oil than you may think.

Learn more about Currency on their website (click here)!

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Learn more about Currency on their website (click here)!

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

This 23 year old is ultra focused on growing his premium, American-made, shoe business methodically to build for the long haul. After all, the shoes he has created and sells should last about 10 years. We unpack the value proposition for the $295 boat shoe and the market he is targeting, as he considers shifting from online sales to establishing his brand in specialty brick and mortar retail. By the way, AJ didn't go to college, and as he developed his big idea (while working full-time) he has instead surrounded himself with a group of trusted mentors who have helped him along the way.

From the Boatman Shoes website:

AJ, age 23, is the owner and CEO of Boatman Shoes, who grew up in the beautiful Berkshires. He has always had a passion for quality apparel, and wanted to start a business of which he was proud. “Save the earth, one shoe at a time”.

Boatman Shoes started in 2020 after research in bridging the gap between sustainability and fashion. AJ and his team have more exciting innovations in the works!

Boatman Shoes Mission: To bring sustainable shoes to the active community. Offering completely sustainable footwear is not only for the fashionable environmentalist, It makes wearing luxury products good for the planet. As we grow Boatman Shoes, we will be helping protect our planet by working with with 1% for the planet. Boatman Shoes is driven to not only supply comfortable, luxury, and sustainable footwear, But to leave no “footprint” as we grow.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

We keep it absolutely real in my conversation with Xavier Jones. He has been powerful force in the restaurant industry in Western Massachusetts and beyond for two decades. He's seen great success, devastating failures - and amid it all - he has only strengthened his faith in God and in his path. I hope you'll enjoy this episode that sheds new light into Xavier's story and his passion for life. Oh, and by the way, did we mention he's opening a new restaurant, which will undoubtedly serve as a vibrant centerpiece to a revitalizing town of Adams in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts.

Xavier is originally from Philadelphia and trained at Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh. His past work experience includes the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, MA where he gained experience in New England and French cooking.

He worked as a Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine or Executive Chef at:

Spice Restaurant, Pittsfield, MA
Masse's Ocean Bar, Chicopee, MA
Viva Fresh Pasta, Northampton, MA
The Thirsty Owl, Saratoga Springs, NY

I bring my love of food and people to all that I do.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

We catch-up with Eryca and hit on her start as a comedian, the industry, giving a platform for women in the industry, and the burgeoning scene for comedians in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts....yup, no kidding! She's a Mom who loves wine and hitting the dance floor. We love her and love our conversation!

______

A Mom and Comedian, Eryca Nolan considers herself a work in progress when it comes to balancing these two acts.

More of a Story Teller than a Jokester she entertains you with wit and unfiltered honesty as she expresses her take on Single Motherhood, Love and most importantly Wine. Whether you are a Mom or have a Mom, her tales will make you feel right at home.

She has performed at Cozzy’s Comedy Club, Appeared on TVOne’s Crime Series For My Man and Thou Shalt Not, Featured on Season 7 of Comics Watching Comics on Amazon Video as well as the Moms at the Movies Segment on WUSA9’s Great Day Washington.

Considered the Original Bad Mom of Comedy, Eryca Nolan is Funny As A Mother.

Eryca IG

Eryca's Twitter

Eryca's FB

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

A woman not afraid to dream and capture the greatness life has to offer! Authentic Creative Warrior - that's Nakeida and we catchup on her passion, her spiritual path, and lifting up others. Nakeida serves as a pastor for Hood Shaw Memorial AME Zion Church in Providence, RI, and is a motivational speaker who effectively utilizes social media to deliver her message. During the pandemic, Motivational Mondays and live sermons on social media was how she reached her congregation and followers. Today, Nakeida is back in person at the church and was in-person in the TJKP studio!

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Hi Everyone! A quick check-in to tell you about my new podcast (available on most podcast platforms - links in the comments **please subscribe ), where we will be taking deep dives in a long form audio-based format. This is going back to my roots in radio and airing it out with the endless number of fascinating and wonderfully talented people who I have the pleasure of knowing - and so many who I have yet to meet. I am asking you to reach out to me and let me know the stories you’d like to hear and who may be a great guest! And please tell your friends!

I hope you will subscribe through your podcast app of choice, engage and let’s continue the conversation.

Thank you and much love to you and yours!

John Krol

http://www.johnkrol.info

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Aaron Weeks has given himself an education on advocating for a badly needed public project - the reconstruction of a deteriorating track surface - in his hometown of Pittsfield, Massachusetts. He has earned his honorary degree in advocacy as the approximately $600k to $1 million project is much closer to coming to fruition through the effort he has spearheaded. As the campaign evolved, Aaron has cultivated a now-active alumni group of hundreds of former track athletes, creating a wider network of support for a sport (track and field) that is the most accessible for so many younger people - no matter their socio-economic background or ethnicity. We talk about his efforts, a little bit about track and field history, some glory days (sorry!) and next steps. Great job, Aaron and everyone who is working to make this project happen!

By the way, alumni of Pittsfield High School Track & Field ought to join the FB and IG pages for the alumni group:

Instagram handle: phs_tf_alumni

PHS Track and Field Alumni FB Group

Reach out to Aaron Weeks directly via email at: adweeks15@gmail.com

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

In part 2 we analyze the artwork in the studio and continue on Poetry, publishing, journalism, blogging, existential crises, life purpose, art, baseball, Hollywood, and more.

This is also was a glass of blue label whiskey with Dan. So if you meet him at the Gateway Inn in Lenox, or sitting by the river in his backyard, your conversation with Dan may sound a bit like this one on the podcast.

Dan has a new work of poetry THIRD PERSON SINGULAR: 33 1/3 Poems - a collection of work by Dan, Jerri Chaplin and Paul Kocak.

Dan is an author whose books have made him a “five-decade man” — his titles have been published in the 1970s (1979), '80s, '90s, '00s, and tens (2010, 11). He has written 18 books and edited six more. His works have been widely quoted, cited, and anthologized. He has also written for the stage and for films.

Check out more books by Dan here.

You also may have heard he's got a blog that you can read here.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

We run the gamut on this one. In fact, we needed to split this into two parts. Poetry, publishing, journalism, blogging, existential crises, life purpose, art, baseball, Hollywood, and more. This is what a cup of coffee is like with Dan. So if you meet him at Juice N' Java in downtown Dalton, or on his back porch, your conversation may sound a bit like this one on the podcast.

Dan has a new work of poetry THIRD PERSON SINGULAR: 33 1/3 Poems - a collection of work by Dan, Jerri Chaplin and Paul Kocak.

Check out more books by Dan here.

You also may have heard he's got a blog that you can read here.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Smashing misconceptions about dementia, Alzheimer's and the old approach to providing care for those in the memory care setting is what Rachael Wonderlin's career is built on. Her trademarked Embracing Their Reality is a perfect description for a more effective approach to those with dementia. Rachael is a successful entrepreneur who says that her path is not for everyone. You need to have a passion for what you do to be a successful small business owner, and Rachael has carved out a niche through her dedication and tireless work ethic.

Rachael Wonderlin is an internationally-recognized dementia care expert and educator. She has a Master’s in Gerontology and is a Johns Hopkins University Press three-time published author. Rachael is the owner of Dementia By Day, a dementia care consulting firm and education company. While Rachael works primarily with senior living companies looking to build or better their dementia care programs, she also loves educating dementia care partners through her blog, podcast, and YouTube channel. She has been featured in Senior Housing News, Forbes, The Washington Post, and on PBS Next Avenue. Rachael resides in Pittsburgh, PA, and travels nationally for speaking and consulting.

Her books include:

When Someone You Know Is Living in a Dementia Care Community

The Caregiver's Guide to Memory Care and Dementia Communities

Rachael's website: rachaelwonderlin.com

Rachael's YouTube page

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Lawrence Carroll is an educational consultant, inspirational speaker, workshop facilitator, experienced teacher and Certified Life Coach, serving at Canyon Ranch Institute for many years, among other organizations. Lawrence and John talk the power of meditation, mindfulness and dive into his three decade spiritual journey that took him to India and Indonesia, after leaving the teaching profession in Australia. He came back to teaching in the United States in 2006, and established his consultation work in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, coaching with a focus on mindfulness and with the practice of meditation.

Lawrence's book A Climate for Learning: A Teacher's Guide to Creating an Emotionally Intelligent Classroom in the First Four Days of School, offers tools for teachers to build a solid rapport and a foundation of trust for students - and vice versa - before diving into the curriculum in today's test-driven public education setting.

Lawrence offers workshops, one-on-one coaching, lectures, presentations and on-site consultations for individuals, schools, colleges, and businesses. Lawrence brings an innovative and acclaimed approach to our most pressing personal and professional challenges. As a high school math teacher with 17 years of experience in Australia and the USA, he transformed his classroom from an environment of struggle to one of ease, joy and fulfillment.

His work was acknowledged with a nomination for the "Distinctive Educator of the Berkshires" Award as well as an invitation to present at the Oxford Round Table, Oxford University. Through unique and innovative methodologies, Lawrence offers proven tools to ignite passion, creativity and

learning in every aspect of your life.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Liliana and John explore her history arriving in the US, the challenges once she arrived as a mother, then divorce and limitations as she became undocumented - making it so she was unable to receive an education, or even drive a vehicle. She overcame those monumental obstacles and is now supporting others with her innovative work with Latinas413. We explore her evolution after immigrating from Mexico, being a working mother of two daughters, ages 13 and 10, and finding meaning and joy in the human experience.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

View Details

Quentin Palfrey may be the next AG for Massachusetts. We chat about going after corrupt corporate players on behalf of the people, equity, how the AG can work to improve conditions for working class citizens as costs rise and wages haven't kept up.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

The John Krol Podcast: Recent Episodes

John Krol