Collaborate & Listen

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, we connect with Jonathan Blakeslee, the owner of White Heron Tea, a beloved local business in Portsmouth. Jonathan shares his unique journey from the Coast Guard to becoming an entrepreneur, detailing the evolution of White Heron from a wholesale tea company to a thriving café. He emphasizes the importance of community, sustainability, and organic practices in his business. The conversation also touches on Jonathan's passion for bicycles and music, showcasing his multifaceted interests and commitment to creating a welcoming space for all.

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, we connect with Emmy Ham from the Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast. We discuss the importance of affordable housing, the challenges faced by communities, and the innovative strategies employed by the Coalition to advocate for housing solutions. Emmy shares her personal journey into housing advocacy, the role of charrettes in community engagement, and the significance of local businesses in supporting housing initiatives. Our conversation highlights the pressing need for affordable housing and the collaborative efforts required to address this critical issue.

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, host Ben VanCamp speaks with Troy Farkas, the creator of Seacoast Stories, a podcast that highlights the unique people and businesses of New Hampshire and Maine. Troy shares his journey of startingthe podcast, the importance of storytelling in building community, and how he selects guests for his show. The conversation delves into the evolution of Seacoast Stories, the lessons learned in its first year, and Troy's aspirationsfor the future, including live events and community engagement.

In this episode, we get to know Anne Hayes, the executive director of Gather, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building food security in the community. We discuss Gather's rich history, innovative programs, and the importance of treating clients with dignity. The conversation highlights the expansion of mobile markets, the strategic planning behind community outreach, and the upcoming new facility that will enhance Gather's capacity to serve the community. The episode emphasizes the growing need for food assistance and the critical role of community support in addressing food insecurity.

In this episode, Chief Mark Newport of the Portsmouth Police Department shares his extensive journey in law enforcement, discussing the evolution of policing, community expectations, and the challenges faced by modern police forces. He highlights the importance of mental health resources, the need for a new police station, and the current crime trends in Portsmouth. Chief Newport emphasizes the department's commitment to community policing and maintaining high standards in law enforcement.

Tune in for our conversation with some of the folks behind the Portsmouth Halloween Parade as we explore the inclusive nature of the parade, emphasizing community participation and creativity. Learn about the organic and sometimes spontaneous growth of the parade, as well as its commitment to sustainability and originality in costumedesign.

In this episode of we dive into the housing advocacy in Portsmouth with Gerry Duffy from Progress Portsmouth. Discover the origins and evolution of this organization, its role in addressing the city's housing challenges, and the importance of civic engagement. Join us as we explore the complexities of housing, the impact on community fabric, and the steps being taken to ensure a balanced and inclusive future for all residents. Tune in to learn how you can become an engaged citizen and contribute to meaningful change in Portsmouth.

Tune in to learn how you can harness the power of collaboration to achieve your mission.In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of collaboration and networking in the nonprofit sector. Discover how organizations are breaking down silos, fostering partnerships, and leveraging networks to amplify their impact. Join us as we explore inspiring stories and practical strategies that are reshaping the way nonprofits work together to drive change.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 8 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Ben Wheeler of Piscataqua Savings Bank. In this episode, we get to know Ben Wheeler, a Portsmouth native and the new President of Piscataqua Savings Bank.  Listen to learn about Ben's journey and what makes Piscataqua Savings Bank a bank built for Portsmouth. Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology PartnerMusic by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 7 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Beth Moreau of Great Oak Title Services and Portsmouth City Council   In this episode, we get to know Beth Moreau, an attorney specializing in real estate and a Portsmouth City Councilor.  We get to know about her career journey, her path to public service, and what it's like to be on municipal boards.     Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 6 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Chris Dwyer of Portsmouth Public Arts Review Committee.   In this episode, we get to know Chris Dwyer, a longtime Portsmouth resident, former city counselor, and more.  We learn what brought Chris to town and some of the history of Portsmouth as an art community and destination.     Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 5 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Michelle LeMay of LeMay Family Goodworks.   In this episode, we get to know Michelle LeMay, the founder of LeMay Family Goodworks.  LeMay Family Goodworks supports, protects, and defends veterans, children, and families in an effort to promote overall mental and physical well~being in our communities near and afar.  Join us to learn about their origin story and what's next!   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 4 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Kaley Gagne of Catapult Seacoast.   In this episode, we connect with a woman of many hats and many talents.  Kaley is a banker with Kennebunk Savings, a Chamber Ambassador, the Chair of Catapult Seacoast, and a mom.  Join us to get to know Kaley and all the great things she's a part of!   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 3 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Keith Bamford of Daystar.   In this episode, we get to know more about our sponsor, Daystar, as we visit with CEO / Co-Owner Keith Bamford.  We talk about the challenges of owning a business and the added pressures (and benefits) of working with family.  Come learn about Daystar's 25 year history here on the seacoast and what they have in store next!   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 2 of Collaborate & Listen featuring President Elizabeth Chilton of the University of New Hampshire. In this episode, we get to know the University of New Hampshire's (UNH) new president, Elizabeth Chilton.  President Chilton has been on the job for just over 9 months and is joining the University at a very busy and challenging time with the State's biennial budget process in full swing and declining enrollment at institutions of higher education throughout the region.  Hear what brought President Chilton to UNH and why even in these challenging times it's still a Great Day to Be A Wildcat!   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 1 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Cariann Daley of the Krempels Center.   In this episode, we speak with Cariann Daley of the Krempels Center - if you're not familiar with the Krempels Center, they're a local nonprofit that works with survivors of brain injuries that helps them with life skills and to find community.   It's a fantastic organization - there are few like it in the country - and we explore how it came to be and what services and activities they provide.  We also get to know Cariann, who is still somewhat new to our community.   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 8 of Collaborate & Listen featuring John Randolph of GSD Communities.   In this episode, we speak with John Randolph of GSD Communities.  We talk about John's journey as a business owner and the growth of the GSD Communities suite of businesses as well as the exciting employer-led housing and childcare endeavors that they are leading.  This episode is a must-listen if you have aging loved ones or are passionate about housing and childcare.   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 7 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Jennifer Desrosiers of Laney & Lu.   In this episode, we speak with Jennifer Desrosiers of Laney & Lu, and also Ginger Fox, Palette Graze Boards, and speaking and coaching endeavors through the Altitude Companies.  If you’re into entrepreneurship origin stories and the journey, this episode is a must-listen!   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 6 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Dr. Cheryl Lesser of Great Bay Community College.   In this episode, we talk about all the great things happening at Great Bay Community College that folks might not know about, from athletics to the new culinary program that just launched this year.  If you've ever wanted to learn more about Great Bay Community College, we highly recommend you give this episode a listen.   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 5 of Collaborate & Listen featuring Tom Bath of Loaded Question Brewing Company.   In this episode we talk about starting a brewery and the origin of the name "Loaded Question."  If you've ever wanted to learn more about the coziest corner of 909 Islington, this is your chance!   Thank you to our season sponsor, Daystar: Your Technology Partner Music by The Reconstructed, used with permission.