Economically Speaking

In this installment, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Dan Lloyd, Program Director of the Babylon Economic Inclusion Program (EIP), to discuss how MWBE certification can open doors for small business owners. They explore what it means to be a certified minority- or woman-owned business, the steps involved in the application process, and how the EIP helps local entrepreneurs navigate it succ...

In this installment, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Jenniffer Firpo, founder and CEO of JVsion Advertising, to discuss her journey as a woman and immigrant entrepreneur on Long Island. They explore the challenges and opportunities women business owners face, how JVsion Advertising approaches branding and storytelling, and the importance of community connections in growing a local busines...

In this episode, we catch up with former Babylon IDA CEO Matt McDonough to discuss his continued work advancing economic development, housing, and policy innovation across Long Island. Recently honored with the NYSEDC James W. Griffin Rising Star Award, Matt has been recognized for his leadership, community impact, and forward-thinking approach to development throughout our region. Links: McDonoug...

On this episode of Economically Speaking, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Dorothy Roberts, president of the Long Island Hospitality Association. Listen as they explore the vital role the hospitality industry plays in Long Island’s economy—as well as the challenges it faces, the opportunities ahead, and the collaborative efforts needed to support its continued growth. Links: Long Island Ho...

Join Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan as he unpacks the latest economic trends, key statistics, and local indicators shaping the future of our town, region, and the nation. From job growth to inflation and everything in between, this episode offers insights into where we are—and where we might be headed. Have a question or a topic you'd like us to cover? Email us at info@babylonida.org .

On this episode of Economically Speaking, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Chris Kelly, Training Director at the Long Island Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC). Together, they explore the current landscape of the electrician trade on Long Island and highlight how apprenticeship programs are building a strong pipeline of skilled workers. Tune in to learn how these programs a...

Join Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan as he briefly overviews key economic trends shaping the Town of Babylon and Long Island and the questions that will impact businesses moving forward in 2025.

On this episode, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan talks with Liz Mirarchi, Executive Director of the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA), and Shawn S. Cullinane, President of the BACCA Board of Directors, about the connection between the local arts and business communities, the organization’s fiftieth anniversary, and their upcoming Harvest Moon Gala. If you want to attend BACCA’s Harvest Moon G...

On this episode, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan previews the upcoming business summit on Thursday, September 26, focused on mental health and wellness in the workplace. This event will examine what steps local businesses can take to support their employees' mental and physical well-being and highlight the importance of wellness in sustaining a healthy, thriving business operation. Date: Thursday, Septe...

On this episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan talks with Matthew McDonough Esq., former CEO of the Babylon IDA and founder of McDonough PLLC, to refresh the audience on the basics of IDAs and what they can do to improve not just businesses in the area but also the communities they serve. As Babylon IDA CEO, McDonough oversaw significant development projects such a...

On July 19, the Town of Babylon and the Wounded Warrior Project will host the 17th annual Soldier Ride. Babylon CEO IDA Tom Dolan recently welcomed Councilman DuWayne Gregory back to Economically Speaking to discuss not only the upcoming event but also other programs the town has to support veterans. Also discussed is the Town of Babylon’s Ujima internship program. We encourage you to help support...

On this episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan talks with Dr. Annmarie Wacha-Montes, PsyD, Clinical Director at Northwell Health’s Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience & Recovery, about the importance of mental health awareness in the workplace. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, public attention has been paid to wellness issues and mental health, focusing on what...

On April 4, 2024, the Babylon IDA will host its first business summit of the year, focusing on housing. Join IDA CEO Tom Dolan on this episode of Economically Speaking as he shares information about the event and discusses recent events related to expanding housing options in our area. Hochul, religious groups press housing plans that could override local zoning (Newsday - March 20, 2024); Long Is...

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Gregg Rechler Managing Partner of Rechler Equity Partners. The pair discuss the history of Rechler Equity Partners and housing on Long Island. Rechler Equity Partner's Website Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Will Flower Vice-President of Transfer & Recycling at Winters Bros. Waste Systems. The pair discuss the "State of Waste" in Babylon. Winter Bros Website State of Waste Report Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Elizabeth Mirarchi the Executive Director of the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts ("BACCA"). The pair discuss BACCA's events scheduled for the remainder of the summer. BACCA's Website BACCA's Instagram Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with David Pennetta .Co-President of the Commercial Industrial Brokers Society of LI (CIBS). The pair discuss the future of commercial and industrial real estate on Long Island. David's Linkedin CIBS's Website Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with H2M Architects + Engineers Director of Private Sector Architecture Kevin Paul. The pair discuss a variety of planning issues with a special focus on storm preparedness on Long Island. Kevin's Linkedin H2M's Website Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Farell Fritz Partner Peter Curry. The pair discuss economic development on Long Island and some of the challenges faced by the region's Industrial Development Agencys. Peter's Linkedin Farrel Fritz's Website Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with Special Projects Manager David Batkiewicz, who was just named a 30 Under 30 Honoree by the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce. The pair discuss what the award means to David, and what its like being a young professional on Long Island. David's Linkedin Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Ne...

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with special guest the Executive Director of the New York State Economic Development Council ("NYSEDC") Ryan Silva. The pair discuss the future of economic development in New York State. NYSEDC's Website NYSEDC's Phone Number: (518) 426-4058 Ryan's Email: Silva@nysedc.org Subscribe to the Economically S...

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with special guest National Grid Senior Representative for Economic Development Niles French. The pair discuss Niles's role with National Grid and grant programs available to businesses through National Grid. National Grid's Website Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's...

On the latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with special guest Suffolk County Community College ("SCCC") President Dr. Ed Bonahue. The pair discuss Dr. Bonahue's experience with the SCCC as well as some of the programs SCCC has to offer. Suffolk County Community College Website Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA'...

On this latest episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with special guest Town of Babylon Councilman Anthony Manetta. The pair discuss Councilman Manetta's experience as CEO of the Suffolk County IDA, and his current role as chairman of the Town's Small Business Committee. Babylon Small Business Connection Newsletter Subscribe to the Economically Speaking...

On this Episode of the Economically Speaking podcast, Babylon IDA CEO Tom Dolan sits down with special guest Amityville Village Mayor Dennis M. Siry. The pair discuss the some of the recent major development in the Village, and the impact they have had on the local community. Amityville Village Website Subscribe to the Economically Speaking Newsletter IDA's Linkedin IDA's Facebook