Collaborate & Listen

In this episode of "Collaborate and Listen," host Ben Van Camp speaks with Lisa Wolford, the executive director of the Children's Law Center of New Hampshire, a nonprofit dedicated to providing legal representation for children in the state. Founded in 2022, the organization aims to support children growing up in poverty and facing various legal challenges, including those related to...

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, host Ben Van Camp speaks with Craig Chalifour of Chalifour Consulting Group about the intricacies of business consulting, particularly for small businesses. They discuss the dynamics of working in a family business, the importance of role clarity, and the unique approach Chalifour Consulting takes in treating clients' businesses as their own. The conv...

In this episode, Ben Van Camp connects with Brendan from Service Dogs NH, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with service dogs. They discuss the various roles of service dogs, the financial aid available for veterinary bills, and the importance of advocacy and education regarding service dog rights. Brendan shares insights into common misconceptions about service dogs and...

In this episode, Ben Van Camp speaks with Sean Clancy, the Assistant City Manager of Portsmouth, about the intricacies of economic and community development within the city. They discuss the diverse economy of Portsmouth, the role of city government, the importance of community engagement, and the ongoing efforts to support local businesses. Sean shares insights on the challenges and opportunities...

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, Ben VanCamp interviews John Moro, a pharmacist at The Herbal Path, discussing the integration of herbal medicine into traditional pharmacy practices. They explore the calming environment of The Herbal Path, the importance of knowledgeable staff, and the misconceptions surrounding herbal medicine. John shares his journey from traditional pharmacy to herbal...

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, host Ben VanCamp connects with Art Meconi from Meconi Financial Management & Advisory. They discuss the importance of community engagement, innovative strategies in financial planning, and the role of art in fostering community connections. Art shares insights on how his firm operates as a concierge financial planning practice, emphasizing collaborati...

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, host Ben VanCamp speaks with Tina from My Breast Cancer Support, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial and emotional support to breast cancer patients in New Hampshire and southern Maine. They discuss the organization's mission, the high incidence of breast cancer in New Hampshire, the various support services offered, and the impo...

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 practic...

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 e...

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 Seacoas...

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...

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 de...

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 i...

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...

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 Partner...

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...

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...

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 le...

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...

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 the...

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...

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 fe...

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...

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 t...