The Community Cast

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Patrick Gilligan, the owner of Gilligan's Gardens. Patrick shares his journey from sales to starting a landscaping business, his focus on landscaping and arborist work, and how he has built a thriving business based on word-of-mouth referrals. Tune in to hear about his passion for maple syrup production, love for skiing, and even his unexpected ho...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Diane Lebson, CEO & Co-Founder of Evergreen Philanthropic Solutions. Diane discusses the significance of relationship-building in fundraising, guiding clients in philanthropy, and engaging the next generation. She also offers valuable advice on finding the right board to join and ensuring you do so for the right reasons. Additionally, Diane shares...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Sara Belletete, VP of Branch Development and 4th generation family member of Belletetes, Inc. She discusses the company's history, their community initiatives, and the importance of family values in their operations. Sara also talks about paving the way for women in a male-dominated industry, the unique challenges she has encountered, and the impo...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Julie Spugnardi, Co-Owner of Bootstrap Marketing. Julie shares her journey from growing up in Lewiston to launching a business during the pandemic. They talk about navigating work-life balance, building a resilient business, and the power of community. Julie also offers advice on staying curious, embracing change, and finding success by helping ot...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Ben Davis, Co-Founder of OpBox. Ben shares his journey from sailor to entrepreneur, overcoming early production challenges, the development of the eco-friendly EDURA Building System and discusses OpBox's community impact through local partnerships and sustainable design solutions.

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Matt McGrath, President and CEO of Systems Engineering. Matt shares his journey from teaching to tech leadership, what it means to prioritize client relationships and how Systems Engineering helps businesses create a culture of security to mitigate human errors and evolving threats.

In this episode Carissa Chipman interviews Dottie Reed of Camp Pemigewassett. They discuss the "Cans from Campers" initiative, a food drive designed to combat summertime food insecurity. Dottie shares the origins, impact, and national recognition of the program, encouraging other camps to participate. For more info, visit cansfromcampers.com.

In this episode, Carissa Chipman chats with Jamie Racine, founder and executive director of The Integrated Life. They discuss TIL's commitment to diverse mental health needs, including outreach services and a domestic violence workshop. Jamie highlights the importance of trauma-informed care for better client outcomes and shares her pride in her staff's professional growth, teamwork, and their cre...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Phil Coupe, co-founder of Revision Energy. Phil shares his journey from journalism to launching Revision Energy, emphasizing aligning career and values. He discusses the affordability and benefits of solar energy. Phil also talks about Revision Energy's community initiatives under their Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) program.

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Linda Varrell, Founder and President of Broadreach Public Relations LLC. Discover Linda's journey from banking to PR and learn how Broadreach focuses on building, protecting, and preserving clients' reputational capital. They discuss effective crisis management strategies, their commitment to giving back and the benefits of implementing an Entrepr...

In this episode, Carissa Chipman chats with Bruce King, Executive Director of Maine Boys to Men. Bruce shares his inspiring journey from incarceration to working in youth development and becoming Executive Director. He discusses the importance of developing empathetic boys and men and highlights how Maine Boys to Men collaborates with schools to foster supportive environments for youth.

  In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Helen Andreoli, Founding Partner and President of Great Diamond Partners. They discuss the core principles of Great Diamond Partners, the importance of proactive client education and personalized financial planning services and how consumers are seeking purpose-driven organizations. Lastly, Helen shares insights on balancing professional and per...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter chats with Emily Machesney, Human Resources Manager at Pratt Abbott. They discuss how Pratt Abbott provides first-time job opportunities for young Mainers, enhancing the customer experience through technology, and supporting the community through initiatives like "Coats for Kids" and providing laundry services to a summer camp in Maine.

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Joshua Hrehovcik, photographer and writer of The Retro Roadtripper. Joshua talks about what started as taking photographers to entice family from New Jersey to visit Maine has turned into nine books, his favorite hidden gems in Maine and New Hampshire and his playful "feud" with Patrick Dempsey.   

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter talks with Clara Collins, Operations Manager at S.W. Collins Co. They explore the intricacies of managing a multi-generational company, the balance of tradition with innovation, and the critical role of community involvement, featuring a unique grant program that deepens local engagement They also touch on the dynamics of working within a family business, sh...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Michelle Anderson, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Maine. They discuss Michelle's journey, the role of volunteers and the importance of real-world learning experiences. Michelle shares the impact of Junior achievement on Maine's youth, highlighting the organization's commitment to education and workforce readiness.

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Lucy Ditzel, Chief People Officer at Atlantic Federal Credit Union. Together, they unpack the secrets to creating a workplace that buzzes with energy, driven by employee recognition, leadership development, and a commitment to community service. 

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Christina McAnuff, Executive Director of the Olympia Snowe Women's Leadership Institute. Christina shares her inspiring transition from the advertising world in New York to leading the Olympia Snowe Women's Leadership Institute.   Learn about her dedication to fostering leadership, confidence, and aspirations among high school girls through innovative me...

In this episode, Carissa Chipman talks with Joan McBurnie, Executive Director of Harvest Hills Animal Shelter. Starting as a volunteer dog walker, Joan now leads the shelter. She discusses key strategies and community support that have helped the shelter succeed. Joan shares a story about Bubba, a rescue that showcases their impact. The talk highlights the importance of animal adoption and the she...

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Jennifer Packard, President of PK Realty Management & Investments. They discuss the company's commitment to community, current trends in real estate management, and Jennifer's collaborative leadership style. Also, discover the intriguing concept of 'hedonism without harm' as Jennifer shares insights on balancing pleasure with responsibility.

Join Carissa Chipman as she explores Sarah Burns' transformation from dreamer to co-owner of Chocolats Passion, Portland Maine's premier French chocolate shop. Discover the secrets behind their sustainable, fair-trade creations, from inspired beginnings to the crafting of unique, unforgettable flavors. Sarah shares the highs and lows of chocolate-making, community impact, and what's next for Choco...

In this episode, Steve Cote interviews Ella Chandler, the Marketing Manager at Cheese Louise, an artisan grilled cheese food truck company. They discuss Ella's progression from handling social media to her current role as Marketing Manager, explore Cheese Louise's distinctive approach that focuses on putting people and the organization first, examine how taking on more responsibilities contributed...

In this podcast, Steve Cote sits down with Joe Manning, Head of School at Fryeburg Academy in Western Maine. They discuss Joe's path to leadership, the insights he's gained, and the impact of the Raiders Family spirit. Learn about Joe's mentors, his approach to challenges, and his passion for education.

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Richard Hussey, Vice President of Human Resources at Hussey Seating. They discuss what it truly means to be a six-generation family-owned business, how they encourage their employees to give back to their community, and how they foster leadership and growth within the company.

In this episode, Dottie Chalmers Cutter interviews Stephanie McDonough, Founder and CEO Farmer of Farm to Table Kids.  They discuss how Steph had to re-launch her business after her son was diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer, her passion for connecting kids with nature, and how she has built a community around farming.