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The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast
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The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast

Author: North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce

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Everyone has a story to tell! This podcast features conversations between the staff at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce with its members. Each podcast highlights a different business or organization in our region. Tune in each Friday for a new episode!
186 Episodes
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This week, we take a ride over to the Catalytic Consulting, Inc. offices to catch up with CCO and Principal Consultant, Todd Vroman. Todd talks about how their team of industrial innovation experts works across five different service areas to help a wide range of businesses, from early-stage startups to small and medium-sized established companies, looking to accelerate their innovation strategies and projects. Todd discusses their process and how they can integrate into existing teams. He also goes into his background in organizational psychology, what drew him to this work, and how he became part of the Catalytic Consulting, Inc. team. He also talks about their new initiative for manufacturers. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #catalyticconsulting #innovationstrategy #businessconsulting #productinnovation  #costreductionstrategies #resourceacceleration #roadmapdeployment
Today we venture over to Luk, Inc. to speak with executive director, Beth Barto, along with two members of her team, Hannah Reynolds and Meryl Warpula. We talk about the wide range of services Luk, Inc. has been providing for more than 55 years to improve the safety, health, and emotional well-being of youth, families, and adults across the region. Hear about how Luk, Inc. has adapted over the years to meet the changing needs of the region, and how they partner with other community providers and organizations. We also talk about their Youth Mentoring Program, the importance of youth mentorship, how you can become a mentor, and the ways you can support the program like attending their 13th annual Kids at Heart Gala on April 30th. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #LUKInc #LUKMentoring #centralma #BecomeAMentor #mentalhealth
Today we head down Route 2 into Leominster to Chopsticks Restaurant and Bar. Christina Xing talks about her career and experiences that have taken her around the world before settling in the area with her husband as the newest owners of Chopsticks, an area institution that recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Hear Christina talk about how her skills in the advertising and fashion world have translated over to the restaurant industry as they work to not only maintain the Chopsticks legacy, but expand their offerings and create new experiences. From traditional Chinese and Japanese dishes, to their Sunday buffet, live entertainment and their new mobile hibachi, its no surprise Chopsticks is a mainstay for so many North Central MA families. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #chopsticksleominster #chinesefood #japanesehibachi #chinesebuffet #outdoorhibachi #sushispecial #livemusic #entrepreneur
As we kick off 2026, we are joined by Michael LoGuidice, Business Relations Specialist with MassAbility. Michael talks about the wide range of services MassAbility offers for people with disabilities with a focus on their career services. Learn about the ways MassAbility helps individuals work towards achieving their goals through some of their career services like job placement assistance, employment counseling, job training, and information about accommodations. Employers will also learn about the ways MassAbility forms relationships with area employers and resources available to employers that include their consultations and trainings, tax incentives and more.   #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #workforce #jobtraining #MassAbility #Accessibility #DisabilityCommunity
We keep the conversation rolling this week as we are joined by Julie Quinn, Senior Program Manager with TransAction Associates, Inc. and Director of the North Central Massachusetts Rides TMA. Julie dives into what a Transportation Management Association (TMA) is and how they work to improve transit in a region. She dives into the process of establishing the new North Central Massachusetts Ride TMA, the stakeholders involved, what drove them to establish this TMA, how it came to be parked alongside other Chamber affiliates, and the role of TransAction in running the TMA. Julie also touches on the current membership, how the services benefit employers, plans to move the needle forward on transportation with future initiatives, and how your business or organization can join. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #TMA #transitsolutions #transportationmanagementassociation #chna9 #transportation #NCMRidesTMA #transortationbarrier #workforcechallenges
Join us as we sit down with Sharon Olsen, owner and partner, of Cordials Catering and Beverages based in West Boylston. Sharon talks about Cordial’s approach to ensuring they provide beautifully designed and gorgeously presented meals and bar service within your budget for a special event or any occasion. She also talks about the complete service they offer for weddings, showers, parties, and corporate events. From customizable menus to options for allergies and dietary restrictions, Cordials can even add custom touches recreating family recipes. Plus, find out about the new meeting room Cordials Catering and Beverages offers on site for your smaller gatherings. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #westboylston #food #catering #cateringservice #cordialcatering #cocktails
Join us on the road at Making Opportunity Count (MOC) Inc.'s Adrian L. Youth Ford Center for Change's Youth Innovation Center on the heels of its one year anniversary as we sit down with Shana Fitz, Sue Le, and Charlie Barbera. The trio talk about the unique makerspace created for youth, by youth, that helps to foster talents & skills through access to creative space and resources. They talk about the opportunities for hands on learning, exploration and empowerment that center provides as well as opportunities for mentorship with local industry professionals. Listen in and find out how you can make a difference by using your skills to help shape the region's youth and future workforce. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #fitchburg #youthcenter #empowerment #advocacy #skillbuilding 
Joins us on the road at Workers Credit Union (WCU) in Littleton this week, as we sit down with Bob Lockett, WCU Chief Revenue Officer, and Mackenson Masse, WCU Director Retail Branches and Market Growth, Branch Administration. Bob provides tips for businesses on how to deal with economic uncertainty and build up resilience while Mackenson talks about what members should be doing on a personal level to shore up their finances. The two of them also talk about the financial education their team provides, the importance of building a relationship with your financial institution, navigating budgets as well as credit and debt, and they dive into what sets credit unions apart from other financial institutions. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #northcentralmassachusetts #choosenorthcentral #workerscu #financialwellness #workerscreditunion
This week, we sit down with Tony Fiore, a Senior Business Advisor with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Clark University. Tony talks about the vital services the SBDC provides provided to small businesses and entrepreneurs to help them start run, or grow their business, while also providing students with an opportunity to gain business, consulting, and research experience. He also spent time discussing how they fall under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), their affiliation with Clark University, as well as their relationship with entities like the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation. He also talked about an upcoming roundtable discussion focusing on staffing and retention that is slated for Tuesday November 18th at 10am at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce office. Find out more about the roundtable and register here: https://web.northcentralmass.com/events #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #clarkuniversity #businesstechnicalassistance #smallbusinessdevelopmentcenter #sbdc #sbdcatclark #smallbusinesssupport #smallbusiness
Joins us on the road as we chat with Nicole Conroy, Director of MA Programs, of MY TURN, Inc. along with Terry Young and Sarah Stebulis, members of the 2023 North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Institute (CLI). Terry and Sarah talk about their community projects that connected them to MY TURN and how that led to the creation of their annual non-traditional scholarship. They also bring Mina Girouard, a scholarship recipient, into the conversation to talk about the impact of MY TURN and the scholarship on her life and career path. Nicole talks about how MY TURN works with vulnerable youth and adult populations to address barriers to success and help them navigate a course to a bright future. Listen in and find out how you can get involved with MY TURN here: https://www.my-turn.org/   #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #MYTURN #socialservices #scholarship #education #trades #workforce #jobtraining
Today we travel out to Sholan Farms in Leominster to speak with Joanne DiNardo and John Souza with the Friends of Sholan Farms. The two share insight into its history as a community orchard over the past 24 years and how the orchard has incorporated additional fruits to extend their growing season and offer more pick your own options. With apple season upon us, the two spend time talking about the apples available for pick your own and in their farm stand throughout the season. They discussed the volunteers needed to run the orchard and talk about their capital campaign to build a new barn that will greatly improve their operations and community engagement. Find out how you can get involved in their capital campaign or volunteer at: https://www.sholanfarms.com/  #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #apples #appleorchard #pickyourownapples #communityorchard #sholanfarms #johnnyappleseed
Today we sit down with Joshua Caron, CEO of Garbage Gurus. Joshua talks about how his carpentry and contracting background led him to the world of waste removal and dumpster rentals. He also discussed his entrepreneurial journey, the importance of reading, and working on a business with family and friends. Joshua talked about his passion for recycling and the eco-friendly efforts of Garbage Gurus. For Joshua, their dumpster and junk removal can have a major impact on their customers' lives and on the environment. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #Westminster #GarbageGurus #Entrepreneurship #junkremovalservices #recycling
Join us as we venture out to the Treasure Valley Scouting Reservation to speak with Scouting America Heart of New England Council’s new CEO Jason Pigg. As a lifelong scout, Jason talks about the major impact scouting has and continues to have on his professional and personal life. Jason spent time chatting about the different programs offered through Scouting America with the Heart of New England Council and the lifelong skills programs teach the youth. Jason also talks about the importance of volunteers, and ways that you can get involved which also include attending their upcoming Distinguished Citizens Award Dinner on November 13th. Find out more at: https://hnescouting.org/ #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #Rutland #scoutingamerica #heartofnewengland #youthdevelopment #leadership #scoutingadventure
Join us as we talk about the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Institute (CLI). Travis sits down with three of his classmates and fellow graduates from the most recent CLI class: Calla Flannery of Workers Credit Union, Meghan Maceiko from the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, and Lynese Wiafe of Fitchburg State University. Listen in as they discuss their experiences, their biggest takeaways from the class, their community projects and how they are applying their CLI lessons to the professional and personal lives. Applications for the upcoming class are due by August 15th, and can be found at www.northcentralmass.com.  The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #communityleadershipinstitute #communityengagement #leadership #fitchburgstateuniversity #cfncm #workerscu
This week we venture to Mediation Services of North Central MA, Inc. to speak with Lisa Wood, Executive Director, and Kathy Hughes, Youth Program Coordinator. The two of them talk about how the services offered over the years have expanded to offer assistance with conflict resolution in a variety of situations. Listen to how mediation can serve as a powerful tool to assist individuals navigate challenging situations like court cases, neighbor disputes, housing issues, and re-entry. Lisa also discusses how mediation can be used to effectively address conflict in the workplace and how their conflict coaching sets up employees and employers for success while Kathy talks about the use of peer mediation in schools and the communication skills students learn from the program that will continue to help them throughout their entire life.   The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #massachusetts #mediation #conflictresolution #talkitoutma #resolutonma #workplaceculture #communitymediation
Join us for our conversation with Melissa Glenny of podcast sponsor, Franklin Professional Associates. Melissa talks about why chasing the mythical perfect candidate may be hindering your hiring efforts, and how Franklin Professionals can work with you to identify what really matters when looking for your next hire. She also provides insight into the importance of the skills section of resumes for job seekers, what job seekers are currently looking for with prospective employers, and what the job market looks like. We also touch on the importance of learning to use AI as a tool, how AI is changing the workforce landscape and how companies need to consider policies and procedures for AI use. The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #massachusetts #recruiting #staffing #workforce #careers #resume #AI #AIuse #AIimplementation
We are joined this week by Steve Janes, Founder and Managing Partner, of Fuse Energy. Janes talks about his career in the energy sector and how passion for the community is what led to the founding of Fuse Energy with his business partner, Tom Defeudis. Janes talks about the state of the energy industry and how Fuse works with business and non-profit clients of all sizes to remove some of the volatility and provide peace of mind. He also touches on the multiple state programs that are available to commercial customers and how Fuse can help navigate those programs as part of your energy mix. Find out more about Fuse Energy at fuseenergygroup.com The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #massachusetts #NorthCentralMA #FuseEnergy #EnergySavings #CommercialEnergy #EnergySolutions 
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and today we chat with we Sheila Crowley, Chief Operating Officer, of TaraVista Behavioral Health Center in Devens. Crowley talks about TaraVista’s acute psychiatric care services that they provide to children, adolescents, and adults. She also talks about her background as a first responder and LMHC, her experience working in an emergency department setting and how that has informed her approach to helping patients at TaraVista, and what they look for in those looking to pursue a career in this field. Crowley also talks about mental illness, the stigma around it, and how important it is to treat patients with compassion and maintain their dignity when they arrive at the facility in crises.   TRIGGER WARNING: Contains conversations about mental health, suicide and depression The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #massachusetts #NorthCentralMA #DevensMa #MentalHealth #behavioralhealth #MentalHealthAwareness #TaraVistaCares #MentalHealthJobs
We are joined this week by Winchendon’s Community Outreach Coordinator, Shaina Cunningham to talk about the Robinson and Broadhurst Performing Arts Amphitheater at Winchendon Community Park, and leveraging events to bring more tourism to the Town. Shaina is joined by Jody Mendoza and Richy Peña of Farming is Life who talked about their Sunset Socials planned at the Amphitheater June 14th through October 11th. John Harrington of the band, Sláinte, also pops into the conversation to talk about the Central Mass Irish Festival on September 27th. The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #massachusetts #NorthCentralMA #Winchendon #WinchendonCommunityPark #FarmingIsLife #SunsetSocials #CentralMassIrishFestival
We are joined this week by two members of the North Central Mass Association of Realtors (NCMAR), Michelle Haggstrom (Keller Williams North Central) and Nick Pelletier (Pelletier Properties- Keller Williams North Central). Michelle and Nick talk about their paths to real estate and their involvement in NCMAR. They also dive into the advocacy efforts of NCMAR in addressing issues facing the housing industry in the region and across the State. They also talk about the upcoming 8th Annual Real Estate Summit event with NCMAR and the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce on May 22nd. Learn more about the event and register here: https://web.northcentralmass.com/events/8thAnnual%20North%20Central%20Real%20Estate%20Summit-2778/details The Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast is sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates. #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #massachusetts #NCMAR #NorthCentralMAAssociationofREaltors #MAR #MassachusettsAssociationofRealtors #housing #housingcrisis #realestate #realtors
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