Collaborate & Listen

Join us as Emma Paré, the marketing manager of Water Country, shares insights into the park's history, operations, rebranding, and future plans. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, staff experiences, and what makes Water Country a beloved summer destination.

In this episode, Portsmouth Mayor Deaglan McEachern shares insights on leadership, balancing public service with personal life, and the future of Portsmouth. Discover how local government works, the importance of trust, and the role of community in shaping a vibrant city.

In this episode, Andrew Samonas shares insights on Portsmouth's real estate market, urban planning, and community development, highlighting the city's growth, historic preservation, and innovative projects like the Davenport Inn.

In this episode, real estate developer Eric Chinburg shares his journey from building his first house to transforming historic mills into vibrant community spaces. Discover insights on development trends, community impact, and the future of housing in New Hampshire.

This episode features Suzanne Foley and Eilee Marousek sharing the inspiring journey of Port City Pretzels. More than just makers of delicious local treats, Port City Pretzels is also a woman-owned business in Portsmouth that employs individuals with disabilities. Come hear their insights on entrepreneurship, product development, scaling, and community impact.

This episode features Lori Waltz, the executive director of Leadership Seacoast, discussing the program's impact on community engagement, leadership development, and regional growth. Discover how the program fosters civic responsibility across diverse participants and learn how to get involved.

Join us as we spend some time getting to know John Sakovits and Bill Harris from Sail Portsmouth. We learn about Portsmouth's vibrant tall ship event and the inspiring Sea Challenge program that empowers teens through sailing adventures. This episode highlights community efforts, volunteer opportunities, and the transformative impact of maritime education.

In this episode of Collaborate & Listen, Ben VanCamp sits down with Kara Anne Rodenhizer executive director of Home for All, about the organization’s work across the housing spectrum, innovative programs like pop-up care villages, and upcoming initiatives including Affordable Housing Week. They discuss the importance of comprehensive housing solutions, community engagement, and the evolving la...

In this inspiring interview, Jen Stebbins Thomas shares her journey as a leader in development, her community involvement, and the lessons learned from her father. Discover how she balances business, family, and community service to make a meaningful impact. Congratulations to Jen Stebbins Thomas, our 2026 CelebrateHER Large Business Leader of the Year - Sponsored by Newburyport Bank

In this episode, Lisa Keslar shares her inspiring journey from being hesitant about networking to becoming a top networker and community leader. We explore her work with Keslar Insurance, her teaching at UNH, and her involvement with the Women's Business League, highlighting the importance of community, collaboration, and giving back. Congratulations to Lisa Keslar, our 2026 CelebrateHER Small...

This episode features Heidi Carrington Heath from New Hampshire Outright discussing the growth of the organization, challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community, and how businesses can foster inclusive environments. Insights include strategic growth in a challenging climate, community engagement, and supporting young LGBTQ+ individuals. Congratulations to Heidi Carrington Heath, our 2026 CelebrateHER No...

This episode features community leader Anne Weidman sharing her inspiring journey of small acts leading to big community impacts. From building inclusive spaces to fostering local engagement, discover how tiny actions can create lasting change. Congratulations to Anne Weidman, our 2026 CelebrateHER Outside the Box Leader of the Year - Sponsored by Vent Activity Rooms

In this inspiring interview, Tammy Joslyn, Executive Director of Operation Blessing, shares the organization's impactful work in serving Portsmouth's community. From its humble beginnings to its current programs, learn how Operation Blessing provides essential resources, supports those experiencing homelessness, and fosters community resilience. Congratulations to Operation Blessing, our 2...

In this episode, host Ben VanCamp connects with Kaylee Gagne and explores her journey as a young professional in banking and community leadership, highlights her role in fostering collaboration through Catapult Seacoast, and celebrates the achievements of 2025. Discover insights on community building, leadership, and the exciting plans for 2026. This episode is part of our series celebrating the r...

In this episode of "Collaborate and Listen," host Ben VanCamp engages with Scott Bogle, a senior transportation planner with the Rockingham Planning Commission, to discuss the Seacoast Greenway project. The Seacoast Greenway, which recently received the Community Connector Award at the 2025 Chamber Collaborative Awards, is a significant initiative aimed at creating a continuous greenway...

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Larry Vannata, founder of Portsmouth Team Building, as he shares how his passion for interactive entertainment and community engagement led to the creation of multiple successful businesses. Discover insights on entrepreneurship, innovative team-building activities, and the importance of experience-driven business models. In this special edition...

In this episode, Justin Gamester of Piscataqua Landscaping shares insights on leadership, company culture, industry evolution, and community engagement. Discover how a local business thrives over 46 years and adapts to change. In this special edition of Collaborate & Listen we also celebrate Piscataqua Landscaping & Tree Service's selection as our 2025 Large Business of the Year! The 2025...

In this episode, host Ben Van Camp speaks with Sophie Gee., co-owner and COO of janegee, about her journey in the retail community of downtown Portsmouth and celebrate her selection as the Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year. Sophie and Ben discuss the Local Love initiative aimed at revitalizing local businesses, the challenges faced by retailers, and the importance of community engagement. Sophie sha...

In this episode of Collaborate and Listen, we connect with Jamie McCarthy from Port City Air to learn about the complexities of being the fixed base operator (FBO) at Portsmouth International Airport. He explains the evolution of FBOs, the services offered by Port City Air, including fueling, catering, and military operations, and the challenges faced in the aviation industry, particularly staffin...

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...