Building Greenwich CT

This week on the Building Greenwich podcast, we sit down with Bobby Walker, Jr., the first Assistant Head of School for Student and Community Life at Greenwich Academy. With a wealth of experience as a teacher, administrator, and community leader, Bobby is known for his dedication to elevating the student experience and building strong relationships within the school and local community. In his role at Greenwich Academy, Bobby collaborates with various student life departments, including division heads, grade-level deans, and directors of diversity, athletics, and public purpose. He also plays a pivotal role in enhancing partnerships with local organizations that align with GA’s mission to foster exemplary character in young women. Bobby brings a rich background in education and community service to the conversation. Prior to joining GA, he was CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich and served as Head of Middle School at King School. His teaching journey began at his alma mater, St. Mark’s School in Dallas, where he taught U.S. history and life skills before transitioning into administrative roles. In this episode, Bobby shares his passion for community-building, his approach to fostering student-faculty relationships, and his vision for the future of student life at Greenwich Academy. Join us as we explore the power of education, leadership, and service through Bobby’s inspiring story. Listen in to hear how Bobby’s deep ties to Greenwich and his leadership are shaping the next generation of students.

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Fazio, a lifelong Greenwich resident and current State Senator representing the Republican Party for the 36th District. Ryan shares his experiences growing up in Greenwich, his journey into public service, and his vision for the district’s future. Tune in as we discuss local issues, the importance of community, and Ryan’s goals as a leader in our town. Whether you’re a local or just interested in Greenwich, this episode offers a glimpse into the people shaping its future.

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Simmons, a lifelong Greenwich resident and candidate for State Senate representing the Democratic Party. Nick shares his journey growing up in Greenwich, his vision for the community, and what inspired him to run for office. Join us for an engaging conversation about local politics, community, and the future of Greenwich. Whether you’re a resident or just curious about the town, this episode offers unique insights into the people shaping Greenwich’s future.

In this episode of Building Greenwich, hosts Lindsay Potter and Scott Elwell sit down with Stephanie Radman, founder and owner of Mayflower Home Organizing. With an MBA and a heart for helping others, Stephanie has turned her passion for streamlining homes into a thriving business that provides white-glove organizing services for every need in Greenwich and surrounding areas. From creating Instagram-worthy closets to managing estate clean-outs, Mayflower Home transforms spaces and lives. Stephanie shares how her experience as a mother of three college-aged children and a dog mom to Duke, her English Bull Terrier, inspired her to build a business focused on making homes run smoothly. Having moved six times in nine years, Stephanie learned firsthand the power of staying organized and efficient, and now she offers her expertise to clients across the region. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale or simply craving a clutter-free life, Stephanie’s approach will inspire you to take control of your space and make it a haven of calm. Tune in to learn practical tips for decluttering, organizing, and creating systems that work for your lifestyle! You can find Mayflower Home Organizing at www.mayflowerhomeorganizing.com, and on Instagram @mayflowerhomeorganizing

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Loeb to discuss how his foundation is using the power of media to shape culture, society, and the next generation. Nick shares his mission to cultivate educational and traditional values through media-centric projects, from producing inspiring films and TV shows to offering scholarships that support these ideals. We explore how his foundation is empowering future leaders with honest learning and providing opportunities for children to attend the schools of their choice. Plus, we dive into the foundation’s dedication to supporting the families of local law enforcement, ensuring that those who protect our communities have the resources they need to secure a bright future for their children. To learn more about the foundation & event visit: https://bit.ly/3Mt4kpn The Nick Loeb foundation supports First Responder Scholarship Programs in Purchase/ Harrison, White Plains & Greenwich.

Just like summer, this episode is short and sweet. Join Scott & Lindsay as they dive into all the exciting events happening in Greenwich this August. We hope you are enjoying your summer, see you next week!

With over a decade in non-profit leadership, Erin has led both large and small organizations in Manhattan, Washington, DC, and Greenwich, CT. A graduate of Elon University (B.A.) and Columbia Theological Seminary (M.Div), Erin’s career has focused on leading strategic organizational change and driving systems improvement, creating the foundation for growth and transformation. In 2014 Elon University presented Erin with the Alumni Award for Service to Church and Society. She has been featured on CSPAN in her role as Guest Chaplain for the U.S. House of Representatives, and in 2020 was named one of the “40 under 40 women in Washington” by Washingtonian Magazine. In her free time, Erin volunteers as a Mentor with the Women’s Mentoring Network in Stamford, CT, is a Certified Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate with the Greenwich YWCA, is a member of Women Owned Greenwich, and serves as a pro bono consultant with The Acceleration Project. It was a privilege to talk with Erin and learn more about her work and what the Center for Hope and Renewal offers our community!

Meet Donald (Don) Mohr, Recreation Supervisor for the Town of Greenwich! Don has been involved a number of Sports Leagues, the Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink, field scheduling and many special events for the Town over the past 40 years. In this episode Scott, Lindsay and Don discussed the upcoming 4th of July Greenwich Town Fireworks Displays at Binney Park and Greenwich Point Park, as well as the Greenwich Summer Concert Series. Tune in to learn more about the biggest events of the Summer in Greenwich, CT with Donald Mohr!

A Conversation with Bob Arnold, CEO of Family Centers In this episode, we sit down with Bob Arnold, CEO of Family Centers in Greenwich, to explore the incredible work being done to empower children, adults, families, and communities throughout Fairfield County. Family Centers is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to offering comprehensive education, health, and human services. With the support of over 300 professionals and hundreds of trained volunteers, Family Centers provides innovative and responsive programs designed to help individuals and families build strong educational foundations, overcome complex challenges, and lead healthy, productive lives. Join us as Bob shares insights into the holistic approach that Family Centers employs to address the ever-changing needs of the communities they serve. Discover the impact of their multi-faceted network of programs, from early childhood education to mental health services, vocational support, and beyond. This episode offers a deep dive into how Family Centers is making a tangible difference in the lives of over 24,000 Fairfield County residents each year. Tune in to learn about the transformative power of holistic care and the dedicated efforts of Family Centers to help everyone realize their full potential.

Celebrating Community with Brooke Shepard, founder of Monogram Mary, based in Old Greenwich! In this episode, we dive into the story of Monogram Mary, a brand launched in 2016 with a mission to bring personalization and custom gifts back into the marketplace. At Monogram Mary, the philosophy is simple: celebrate who you are, always. Join us as we explore how founder Brooke was inspired by her grandmother's beautifully monogrammed linens, napkins, and tablecloths—heirloom pieces that seemed to vanish amidst the rise of retail giants. Determined to revive this lost art, Brooke set out to create perfect, cherished gifts and special touches that make every day feel like a celebration. From cozy, beautiful robes to children's bath towels and ready-to-go weekend bags, Monogram Mary offers pieces that bring joy and comfort. Inspired by an extraordinary woman named Mary, Brooke's late mother-in-law, known for her impeccable taste and unwavering grace, Monogram Mary encourages everyone to leave their special mark on the world. Be fearless, be creative, be YOU, and just like Mary... LEAVE YOUR MARK.

This week we sat down with Anshu Vidyarthi, co-owner of Le Penguin (Downtown Greenwich) & Le Fat Poodle (Old Greenwich) and owner of Siren Restobar and Juju Cantina in Old Greenwich. Anshu started in the restaurant business in Los Angeles, Moved to NYC and helped open the iconic Le Colonial on 57th street. He joined L'Escale in Greenwich to help with their bar program and was moved to Director of Operations after the 1st year. Anshu grew into the managing partner role after year three and left in 2009 to pursue developing and creating his own hospitality company. Fast forward to 2013, Anshu and his partner in business opened Le Penguin, followed by Le Fat Poodle in 2014. Opened Siren RestoBar in August 2023, Juju Cantina will open Summer 2024 and Siren in Port Chester in 2025.

We sat down to talk with the dynamic local power duo, Kate Truesdell & Frank Carpenteri this week. Born and raised in Greenwich, High School Sweethearts, parents of 5 (!!) children, and owners of two thriving businesses in town (Kate, Greenwich Dance Studio - Frank, Garden Catering) you will love learning more about them! Kate shares how she started Greenwich Dance Studio in 2004 and is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year with a special performance all about Greenwich. Frank shares what it is like to take over (with his sister) and grow a family business with deep roots in our community and a fiercely loyal fan base. Together, they share their secrets for managing all of it and being engaged members of the Greenwich community. Thank you for listening!

Kim is one of the co-founders of Mothers' Day Movement (MDM). With a whopping $35 BILLION spent on Mother’s Day each year in the US, Mothers' Day Movement asks people to rethink their giving priorities in order to make Mothers' Day more meaningful. Rather than honoring a single mother, Mothers’ Day Movement seeks to help mothers around the globe as well.   Each year, Mothers’ Day Movement selects a 501c3 as its annual beneficiary. 100% of funds raised go directly to the beneficiary. Past beneficiaries have worked in the areas of education, maternal health, human trafficking and access to clean water.  Kim was raised in Simsbury, Connecticut and received a BA from Lehigh University and an MBA from Fordham University. Kim began her career in marketing at MBIA in Armonk, New York and was a partner in STEPinteractive, a web development company. Kim is a member of the Connecticut Board of the Anti-Defamation League and was the recipient of their Daniel Ginsburg Humanitarian Award. Along with her husband Tom, Kim is very active with Pathways, a local organization working to stop the stigma of mental illness. She currently lives in Old Greenwich with her wonderful family, husband Tom and children Drew and Katy.  ———— Our campaign is focused around Mother’s Day so the most important date is the second Sunday in May. We drive donations to our selected charity up through Mother’s Day and a few days after. The best way for people to get involved is to make a donation in honor of a special mom in their life. They can have a Mother’s Day card sent to their honoree as well. Also, spreading the word is so important. Tell friends and family to “shift their gift” and follow us on social media.  You can find them on Instagram: @mothersdaymovementmdm

Larry Imbrogno is the Caretaker of Greenwich Point Park more affectionately known to locals as Tod's Point. Larry is a 4th (!) generation local here in Greenwich and now lives with his wife and two sons at Greenwich Point. They have been there for almost 7 years. Larry has been working for the town of Greenwich for 25 years. In his spare time he volunteers coaching youth football, and is on the board of both the Old Greenwich Association, and for the Generals youth football team, serving as the assistant treasurer.

In this episode, we chat with Dee Hernandez, the Executive Director the River House Adult Day Center in Cos Cob, CT. A native New Yorker, Dee has been in the social services field for over 25 years, working with both the City of New York, and major nonprofit service providers throughout the Tri-State area. She recently joined River House earlier this year as the Executive Director and talks with us about the services River House provides for older adults in Greenwich, CT as well as her commitment to helping those in need through love and respect. ABOUT RIVER HOUSE ADULT DAY CENTER: River House's mission is to provide adult day care that works for all families. Adults who wish to remain in their community but require daytime assistance come to River House up to five days a week to participate in vibrant activities, socialize with their peers, and receive compassionate care. Individuals challenged with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, diabetes, stroke, depression, traumatic brain injury, cardiac or pulmonary disease, vision/hearing loss, or other age-related ailments, greatly benefit from River House’s team of nurses, health aides, and therapeutic recreation staff who are trained to support their unique needs. River House follows a medical care model where nurses work with every member, their doctors, and their family to provide a personalized plan of care that enhances the member's overall well-being. By providing this crucial daytime care, caregivers are given the respite and peace of mind needed to effectively care for themselves and their loved ones. ABOUT DEE: Dee has a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Psychology, and a Master’s in Public Administration with a concentration in Human Resources, both from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in NYC. She's native New Yorker and have been in the social services field for over 25 years, working with both the City of New York, and major nonprofit service providers throughout the Tri-State area. She has dedicated her career to helping those in need and has a deep love and respect for those she serves along with her team. Through collaboration, purposeful planning, and intervention she has been able to successfully facilitate meaningful programing and robust services for those in need.

Hear from Cristin Marandino, editor of Greenwich Magazine in this episode! Lindsay, Scott, and Cristin discuss the multifaceted nature of Greenwich, CT and how it is so much more than just a wealthy town full of pretty faces. Cristin shares her journey of becoming an editor and explains the process of selecting stories and themes for the magazine. Cristin emphasizes the importance of going beyond the party pages and covering inspiring stories. -------- ABOUT GREENWICH MAGAZINE: Greenwich Magazine covers a range of topics, from hard-hitting journalism to highlighting the town's rich history. The magazine aims to address serious issues affecting the community, such as addiction, bullying, and domestic violence while also striking a balance between ads and editorial content, ensuring that important stories are given the spotlight. They feature wedding pages and promote charity events, partnering with nonprofits in the area. Greenwich Magazine also supports local restaurants and organizes Restaurant Week to showcase the town's culinary scene. They address current trends, including the impact of social media, and provide resources for the community. Additionally, they celebrate Greenwich's history and upcoming events, keeping readers informed and engaged.

In this episode, Lindsay and Scott interview Amy Montimurro, the CEO of Abilis, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in lower Fairfield County. Amy shares her journey with Abilis and the organization's mission to provide a lifespan of support for individuals and their families. She discusses the various services offered by Abilis, including early intervention, therapy, diagnostic services for autism, and transition support. Amy also highlights the importance of community partnerships and inclusion, as well as the challenges and gaps in service provision. The episode concludes with a discussion on upcoming events and the expansion plans of Abilis. Amy discusses the involvement of local youth and the various ways people can get involved and support Abilis. She also shares her personal journey and how she got involved in this field. Learn more at www.abilis.us Takeaways: Abilis is a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in lower Fairfield County. Abilis offers a wide range of services, including early intervention, therapy, diagnostic services, and transition support. Community partnerships and inclusion are crucial for supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting their independence. There are challenges and gaps in service provision, particularly for individuals with intellectual disabilities who may not meet the IQ criteria for services. Abilis is expanding its programs and services through grant funding and community engagement. Abilis provides support for individuals with disabilities and their families, focusing on therapist continuity and taking insurance to ensure quality care. The organization offers a range of services, including vocational development, community engagement, and transition programs for individuals aging out of the school system. Abilis encourages youth involvement and offers volunteer opportunities for people to contribute their time and skills. Community engagement is vital, and partnerships with schools, businesses, and organizations help create inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities. Supporting Abilis can be done through donations, volunteering, and participating in fundraising events like the gala and walk.

Nit Noi Provisions is a bone broth and dumpling company based in Norwalk and Greenwich, Connecticut started by North Shutsharawan. Nit Noi offers a variety of bone broths, including beef, chicken, and vegetable, as well as handmade dumplings. The company sources its bones from local farms and uses traditional recipes to create flavorful and nutritious products. North shares how Nit Noi is now looking to scale its operations and expand its wholesale business, while also offering classes and exploring shipping options for its products. Chapters: 01:18 Starting Nit Noi in Norwalk 02:24 The Inspiration and Recipe for Nit Noi 05:01 The Rise of Bone Broth 06:10 Making Bone Broth 07:35 Sourcing Bones for Broth 08:13 Different Types of Bone Broths 10:30 Working Together as a Couple 12:20 Choosing Norwalk as the Location 16:40 What is a Ghost Kitchen? 17:46 Expanding into Dumplings 23:18 Different Broth Flavors and Customization 24:30 Freezing Broth and Dumplings 27:20 Selling Broth and Dumplings to Restaurants 32:43 Expanding Wholesale and Classes 40:13 Future Plans for Nit Noi 44:31 Gold Belly and Shake Shack 45:25 Locations and Opening Hours 46:14 Summer Offerings 46:42 Conclusion

Dive into the world of skincare with Scott Elwell and Lindsay Potter in an insightful interview with Sarah Yardis, esthetician at Nicole Caroline Skincare in Greenwich, CT. Explore a spectrum of skincare topics, including men's skincare, shaving, double cleansing, and personalized skincare routines. Sarah emphasizes the power of consistency and habit-building for radiant skin, shedding light on Nicole Caroline Skincare's personalized approach. In the second half of the episode they discuss the secrets of healthy skin. Discover the transformative effects of hydration and incorporating greens into your diet, highlighting local wellness havens in Greenwich like Green and Tonic. The conversation covers the benefits of carrot juice, the importance of self-care, and the therapeutic salt room. They also delve into the significance of sleep, proper cleansing, and provide a sneak peek into the variety of facial tools and treatments available at Nicole Caroline Skincare. Concluding on a high note, they unravel the importance of healthy skin and discuss the anti-aging wonders of Gua Sha. Don't miss this illuminating episode that's sure to elevate your skincare game! #SkincareTalk #WellnessJourney #GreenwichGlow #PodcastHighlights #NicoleCarolineSkincare

Nina Lindia discusses the philanthropic landscape in Greenwich, CT and Pitch Your Peers (PYP). PYP is a women's collaborative organization that provides grants to local nonprofits. The membership process involves nomination and invitation. PYP holds one meeting a year where grant champions pitch their chosen nonprofits. The grant process is streamlined and efficient, with members trusting the grant champions' choices. Nina encourages individuals to get involved in philanthropy and suggests looking for organizations with a low barrier to entry. She also advises donors to give what they won't miss and to pay attention to end-of-year appeals. Takeaways Greenwich has a vibrant philanthropic landscape with numerous registered nonprofits. Pitch Your Peers (PYP) is a collaborative organization that provides grants to local nonprofits. PYP holds one meeting a year where grant champions pitch their chosen nonprofits. Membership in PYP is by invitation only, and members are nominated by existing members. Donors should give what they won't miss and pay attention to end-of-year appeals. Chapters: 01:26 Discovering Philanthropy in Greenwich 02:42 The Birth of Pitch Your Peers 04:06 The Philanthropic Landscape in Greenwich 05:26 Pitch Your Peers: One Meeting a Year 06:51 Membership and Nomination Process 09:36 Getting Involved in Philanthropy 11:01 Pitching and Grant Process 12:28 Pitching and Grant Champions 14:09 Grant Pool and Funding Allocation 19:35 Nonprofits and Grant Oversight 20:32 Engaging Nonprofits and Donors 25:35 Getting Involved in Nonprofits 26:32 Donating to Nonprofits 30:01 The Name 'Pitch Your Peers' 31:54 Getting in Touch with PYP 33:44 End-of-Year Appeals and Giving