Notable New England

Ready for a little Halloween mystery? Explore six haunted houses and historic sites across New England known for ghost stories, paranormal sightings, and chilling legends. From a haunted Victorian mansion in Massachusetts to a lighthouse on a Rhode Island island, discover the eerie histories and unexplained happenings that make these places worth a visit. You might even find yourself wondering wha...

Singer, composer, and producer Frank Maza joins Notable New England to talk about his musical journey between Madrid and Boston, blending flamenco, Latin music, jazz, and American songwriting. We discuss his album Back Then, collaborations with acclaimed international musicians, and his upcoming November 5 performance at City Winery Boston—and his hopes for bringing Boston’s diverse musical and cu...

It's time for Notable New England's Fall Arts Preview, featuring arts and culture happenings in New England this fall and beyond. Each fall, many arts organizations in New England begin their annual seasons and I've got the scoop on a variety of arts and culture from music to museums to dance and more for the 2026-2027 season.  📌 Show Notes & Resources: 🔹  Episode Sources, References & F...

Learn about some incredible events & happenings coming up this fall all over New England. May it serve as a springboard for you to explore even more fun, fall opportunities our beautiful area of the country offers.  📌 Show Notes & Resources: 🔹  Episode Sources, References & Featured Links 🔹  Music licensing & credits 💙 Support Notable New England: Join our Notable New England P...

Storytelling has the power to build community, preserve history, and bring people together. In this episode of Notable New England, I speak with writer and storyteller ChaChanna Simpson about her Storytelling Sundays series at the Westport Public Library in Westport, CT, a bi-monthly open mic that welcomes storytellers from all backgrounds to share their voices. We also discuss the vibrant storyte...

In this episode of Notable New England, I sit down with Larry Claflin, Executive Director of the Salem Jazz & Soul Festival, to talk about this year’s lineup, the history behind the festival, and how it supports music education across the North Shore. Learn how this beloved Salem event brings together incredible artists while giving back to the community. 📌 Show Notes & Resources: 🔹  Epi...

As September 1st, Boston’s busiest moving day, approaches, I speak with Larry O’Toole, founder of Gentle Giant Moving Company which was started in Boston and has expanded to other regions outside of New England. Larry shares the story behind building a people-first business, lessons from his memoir Heavy Lifting: Building a Business with a Giant Heart, and how Gentle Giant helped transform the mov...

This past week’s extreme heat across New England had many of us reaching for the AC, but it’s nothing compared to the devastating heat wave of 1911. In this episode of Notable New England, we explore one of the region’s deadliest weather disasters: an 11-day stretch of record-breaking temperatures, limited forecasting, and no modern cooling systems. From people sleeping in the Boston Common to tra...

Summertime in New England is made for getting outside! In this episode, I’m sharing some beautiful walks you can take across the region this summer. From coastal paths and wildlife sanctuaries to scenic strolls, these spots offer beautiful views, local history, and a chance to slow down and explore. If you’re looking for inspiration to get out there, this one’s for you. 📌 Show Notes & Resourc...

Author Julie Gerstenblatt joins the podcast to discuss her new historical fiction novel, The Stargazer of Nantucket (out June 9). In this episode, we talk about what inspired the story, her connection to Nantucket, and the real history behind the book—including the Starbuck family and the legendary clipper ship Flying Cloud. The novel follows 18-year-old Winifred, who secretly stows away on her pa...

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in New England, and in this episode, I’m sharing a curated list of community events to help you get out and explore the region. From food festivals and live music to unique local traditions, there’s something happening in every corner of New England. I’m also highlighting a special America 250 event in each state so you can celebrate this h...

What happens when a local newspaper disappears—and a group of everyday people decides to step up? In this episode, we’re talking about building something from scratch, the power of community, and why local news still matters more than ever. It’s a reminder that sometimes it really does just take a few people to make a difference. The story of the Neshobe Current in Vermont.  🎉🎉Congratulations to...

New England has a rich culinary history, and in this episode I’m sharing some great ways to experience it through food. From guided tours and tastings to hands-on classes and farm experiences across all six states, this is a delicious way to explore the region. Whether you’re visiting or live here, let this be your starting point. Click the Episode Sources, References, and Featured Links below for...

Public libraries are more than just books—they’re acts of resistance. In this episode of Notable New England, we explore how libraries expand access to knowledge, and create free, welcoming spaces for everyone. From media literacy to community connection, libraries quietly empower people every day. Plus, discover unique library programs across New England from gardening workshops and author talks...

Discover hidden gem museums across New England—from quirky collections to fascinating cultural sites you’ve probably never heard of. New England is home to some of the most iconic museums in the world, but beyond the big names are incredible hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this episode of Notable New England, we explore unique and lesser-known museums across the region that offer unforget...

Discover the most beautiful places to see spring flowers in New England—from historic gardens and botanical parks to hidden gems across the region. Content warning: This episode briefly mentions a mass shooting in Pawtucket, Rhode Island during the Wicked Lite Bites segment. The reference comes after an inspiring story, but if this topic may cause distress, please consider skipping the first story...

Spring is almost here, and this episode is your quick guide to the best events in New England for spring 2026. From the Boston Fleet home games and the 50th annual Nantucket Daffodil Festival to VersoFest in Connecticut, GFree Fest in Providence, the Vermont City Marathon & Relay, Maine’s Acadia Birding Festival, and more, I’m sharing a state-by-state roundup of festivals, races, food events,...

On today’s episode of Notable New England, I’m sitting down with author Ken Lizotte to talk about his new book Walden For Hire: Business Lessons From Henry David Thoreau and a side of Henry David Thoreau that doesn’t get discussed very often. Most of us learned about Thoreau through Walden, his writing, and his connection to nature. But, Ken tells us about the hidden business lessons we can learn...

Content warning: This episode includes some strong language and discussion of current events that may be difficult or activating for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. On this episode of Notable New England, I’m joined once again by my very first podcast guest, Esther Friedman, a Massachusetts-licensed mental health counselor, expressive art therapist, and musician, for a timely and d...

This episode of Notable New England shares calming things to do across New England to reduce stress, support mental health, and reset your nervous system during overwhelming times. Discover peaceful outdoor experiences, scenic road trips, libraries, lighthouses, gardens, and community-centered activities in Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. These simple p...

In this episode of Notable New England, I reflect on highlights from the podcast’s first full year, share what listeners loved most in 2025, and talk about where the show is headed in 2026. I also share a few New England–inspired New Year’s resolutions—from being a tourist in your own backyard to supporting public libraries and showing up for local community life. A cozy, community-focused convers...

Content warning: This episode begins with a message of condolences related to the Brown University & Brookline, MA shootings. While details are not discussed, the mention of the events could be triggering for some listeners. There are also brief references to adult themes when discussing historical Christmas traditions, so listener discretion is advised, particularly if young ears are present....

Looking for meaningful holiday gifts with real New England charm? In this episode, I share a curated, unsponsored list of my favorite New England-made gifts and local experiences—from L.A. Burdick Chocolate and the Vermont Country Store to King Arthur Baking classes, Maine lobster deliveries, New Haven pizza tours, the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail, Newport Mansions memberships, Del’s Lemonade...

I’d really love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. This little show feels like a community we’re building together, and your perspective helps me understand what feels meaningful, what you connect with, and what you’d like to hear more of. If you have a moment to share, I’d be so grateful. I put together a very short, two-minute survey—just 10 simple questions—so I can listen to your thoughts a...

Dearest lovely listeners, I’d love to get your thoughts on the podcast. Are you enjoying it? Is it fun, interesting, and worth your time each week? I really want to make sure it’s something you look forward to—and your feedback helps me do that. I’ve put together a super short, two-minute survey—just 10 quick questions—to hear what you like, what you’d tweak, and even how you first found us. You c...