Talking Life In Vermont With Jonathan Schroth

Talking Life in Vermont: Daniel Villarreal — Second Chances, Building Something Bigger, and Leaving a LegacyIn this episode of Talking Life in Vermont, I sit down with Daniel Villarreal, owner of Meticulous LLC.Daniel’s story is one that sticks with you.We talk about growing up in Vermont, hitting some difficult seasons in life, making the decision to change direction, and building something completely different. From starting with one mower and one truck to growing a company that now employs over 20 people, Daniel shares what it really takes to build a business — and more importantly, build a life you’re proud of.We talk about second chances, sobriety, family, parenting, community, and why success isn’t just about numbers on paper. Daniel shares how his company works to give people opportunities, provide stability, and create a culture where people can grow.We also get into the lighter stuff — childhood memories, seven-layer cookies, hunting, golf, food, raising kids, vacation adventures, and what makes Vermont such a special place to call home.This conversation is honest, emotional, funny, and very Vermont.Thanks for listening to Talking Life in Vermont.

This week on Talking Life in Vermont, I sit down with Casey McNeil, third-generation owner of McNeil & Reedy in downtown Rutland, as they celebrate 70 years in business.We talk about what it means to come home, raise a family here, and help carry on a local business that has been part of Rutland for generations. Casey shares his thoughts on housing in our region, moving back to Rutland County, working with his dad and uncle, renovating the store, and why he sees retail as more hospitality than sales.We also get into fatherhood, old cars, grilling, whiskey, dressing well, the perfect summer day in Vermont, and a terrifying “life flashed before my eyes” moment from his college years in Burlington.A big thank you to The Hub CoWorks on Merchants Row in Rutland for giving this podcast a home, and to ICO Electric for helping support local conversations like this one.If you want to change a community, you have to know who’s in it.

In this episode of Talking Life in Vermont, Jonathan sits down with Micaiah Boyle for a real conversation about sports, family, work ethic, growing up, and figuring out what comes next.Micaiah shares what it was like playing college lacrosse, breaking two vertebrae during his freshman year, and fighting his way back onto the field. He also talks about graduating college, stepping into a new career, moving toward life in Boston, and the lessons he’s carrying with him from his parents, siblings, coaches, and teammates.This episode is about resilience, honesty, family, and the small moments that end up mattering more than we realize.Recorded at The Hub Coworks on Merchants Row in Rutland, Vermont.Sponsored by ICO Electric.

Stephen Wilk returns to the Talking Life in Vermont Podcast to share the story of his month-long trip to Costa Rica and the yoga instructor training that became a deeply transformative experience.In this episode, Stephen talks about the path that led him to yoga, the years it took to finally make this training happen, and what it was like to spend three weeks immersed in movement, meditation, philosophy, silence, community, and self-discovery. Jonathan is also joined by Miranda Schroth as they explore the deeper meaning of yoga beyond stretching, including awareness, healing, mantra, breath, joy, curiosity, and reconnecting with who we really are.Stephen also shares stories from Costa Rica, including the food, the people, the off-grid beachfront setting, the tattoo that marked the experience, and what it felt like coming back home with a renewed sense of light, purpose, and excitement.This is a conversation about transformation, presence, and bringing something meaningful back into the community.And remember: if you want to change your community, you have to know who’s in itSpecial Thanks to The Hub CoWorks for providing todays recording space!

Mandolyn McIntyre Crow and Tyler Crow of The Crow Group at Real joined me this week to talk about real estate, cooking at home, goats, chickens, tiny house living, building your own home from the ground up, traveling, trains, small planes, anxiety, Friday the 13th weddings, and why Rutland feels like it’s in the middle of a real comeback.Huge thank you to ICO Electric, our episode sponsor.Recorded at the podcast studio inside The Hub in downtown Rutland.Subscribe to Talking Life in Vermont on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and come along for more conversations with the people who make up our community.

In this episode of Talking Life in Vermont, I sit down with Corissa Burnell and Bodie Barton from the Rutland Area Parent Child Center for a conversation about family, fatherhood, community, resilience, and what it really means to support people with dignity.We talk about Bodie’s work with the Fatherhood Program, Dad’s Café, the importance of giving fathers and male caregivers a place to connect, and the many ways the Parent Child Center is helping families across Rutland County. We also get into personal stories, gratitude, vulnerability, food, music, and the kind of community work that can quietly change generations.A huge thank you to ICO Electric for sponsoring this episode, and to The Hub for providing the space to keep these local conversations going.

Today’s guest is Nate Mastroeni, principal broker of the Elevations Real Estate Team, LLC. In this episode we talk about Nate’s incredible road trip in his twenties — driving from Pennsylvania all the way to Alaska and back — and the perspective that comes from spending that much time chasing adventure on the open road. Along the way, we also dive into the skiing culture around Killington and Pico, building confidence in our kids, and yes… eventually the conversation drifts into aliens and the unknown.This episode is proudly partnered with Rutland Appliance — providing quality appliances, dependable service, and a team of trustworthy people who truly care about their customers.This episode was recorded at the podcast studio at HubCoworks in downtown Rutland, Vermont.If you want to change your community, you have to know who’s in it.

If your in the mood for lots of laughing, caffeinated humor, and funny discussions then your not going to want to miss this episode. Join Ethan Oprendek, Seth Howland, Daniel Ball, and myself for one of the most unhinged and hilarious episodes we’ve recorded so far.This is what happens when you put four 90s kids in a room together — three of whom barely know each other — and somehow they instantly become best friends. It’s absolute chaos in the best possible way. From Canadian snacks and paternity tests to friendship flaws, childhood trauma, and the universal fear of being smothered, this episode goes completely off the rails almost immediately. Somewhere along the way, we also try to figure out whether Ethan was actually adopted.***WARNING*** strong language, questionable decisions, and full debauchery ahead.

In this episode, we sit down with three incredible nurses from right here in Rutland, Vermont, to get a real, unfiltered look into the world of nursing. Joining me are Amanda, David, and my wife, Miranda.We discuss how nursing has changed over the years, the moments that stick with you, and the lighter, more unexpected sides of the profession. This is a fun, honest, and insightful conversation that gives you a whole new appreciation for the people behind the scrubs.

Today's guest is Jenah Bosch. Jenah is the co-owner of Southside Steakhouse in Rutland Vermont and the most extroverted introvert you'll ever meet. From Connecticut to Vermont, Jenah and her husband Nathan have built a life and a business rooted in hustle, heart, and community. This episode dives into entrepreneurship, stepping outside your comfort zone, and what it really takes to build something meaningful where you live.

Today's guest is Seth Howland, co owner of Hollowbranch Design, a veteran owned custom 3D printing company out of Mount Holly Vermont. Sitting down with Seth was like sitting down with a more excited and enthusiastic version of myself, but with a much better beard. But behind the golden retriever energy is someone with all the passion and creativity. This Interview was just plain fun, and who doesn't want a little fun on a Thursday!

In today’s episode, we welcome Chrispin White, Member Service Manager at the Chamber of Economic Development of the Rutland Region. Chrispin shares valuable insights on the strength and challenges of our local community, the real impact of negative social media, and the importance of meaningful human connection in today’s world. We also dive into practical ways to stay active, balanced, and mentally fit. It’s a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about building stronger communities.

From swimming the English Channel, to owning a business, writing a book, and earning her pilot's license, Bethany has taken on challenges most people only dream about. But the one she's most proud of is raising her two children.

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Wilk - a musician with the band Prymora, a soon-to-be yoga instructor, and someone deeply committed to conversations around mental health and personal autonomy. When he's not working in his family's business, Stephen's either on the road playing heavy music or diving inward through his yoga practice. This conversation explores what it means to truly "be here," and find your own path-no matter how unconventional it might look.

If someone asked me for my dream talk show lineup, Juli Tatro would be at the top of the list. After spending years working behind the scenes in radio, Juli has a personality that deserves to be front and center. Take a listen as we attempt (and mostly fail) to keep it together in a conversation full of laughs and classic Juli moments.

In this episode, we sit down with Tom Donahue — Rutland mayoral candidate, current City Alderman, Economic Development Director, City Planner, former President of the Rutland Region Chamber of Commerce, and CEO of BROC Community Action — for a personal and heartfelt conversation. Through thoughtful questions, Tom opens up about his love for family, his deep connection to Rutland, what makes the community special, and what it truly takes to be a strong, compassionate leader, sharing wholesome stories and insights along the way.Special thanks to The Hub CoWorks for providing their professional studio space for this recording.

Today we sit down on the eve of thanksgiving with my three daughters to go over the Red Solo Series questions. I was shocked by some of their answers and I am sure you will be too.

On this episode we are joined by Jared Hussey who is a traveling nurse and sports enthusiast from far enough north he could be considered Canadian. We pull out the red solo cup of questions and try not to drive off the road as we get blinded by the sun.

Today we talk with urban explorer Dana Maguire. From living in a preserved train depot to encounters with the unexplained, Dana shares some of her stories of strange coincidences, possible alien activity, and brushes with the paranormal.

The Do-It-Yourself First Guide to Book Publishing — from someone who’s been through it himself (maybe not the right way, but it worked!). Jonathan Schroth, author of "A Tale of Blackberries", sits down with Jonathan Mackintosh to share his book publishing journey, from finding an illustrator and hiring an editor to formatting a book for print.

Hunting has always played an important role for Vermonters. In this podcast I sit down with hunting enthusiast Jonathan Mackintosh to talk hunting, Vermont deer population, meat processing, and hunting from more than just the practical, but a means to reconnect with nature.

With the dream of becoming an Olympic figure skater, and a passion for rugby, disc golf, and fly fishing, mechanical engineer and comedic personality Daniel Ball spills the beans (pun intended) on his famous chili recipe.

Some kids go to a four-year college, get a degree, and four years is long enough. But not for someone like Melissa Paradee, who has spent her life learning and teaching here in Vermont.On this week's podcast, I sat down with Melissa to talk about everything from taking pictures with the weatherman to not skydiving with Lyle Jepson. More importantly, we explored the value of continued education—and what it really means to immerse yourself in something bigger than yourself.

Teacher, musician, sports enthusiast, and also likely running on a steady coffee IV - Natalie Boyle brings energy and insight to everything she does. in this episode, we dive into her journey of moving to a new state, navigating local sports as both a parent and a coach, and finding balance in all the spaces between. join us for a conversation with a woman who is sure to change the world, starting from the land outside her own front door.

Whiskey connoisseur, urban explorer, music aficionado, and all around lover of fun. Listen as we sit down with the owner of Rutland Appliances and talk all things Robert Maguire.

Life in Vermont as a transplant. We sit down with Esteban Vasquez to talk about slowing down, finding relaxation, and of course America's supposed alien alliance.

The psychology of man, ulcerative colitis, and not being a butt-hole. In this episode we talk purpose, empathy, being a nurse, and apparently dictators, as we peel back the many layers that are David Mackintosh.

Rot-able boxes, Iron Man suits, and a cake his brother very much did not make. Jonathan Schroth sits down with Jonathan Mackintosh to talk all things Jonathan. From discussions on family, to building a house, to making a home, Jonathan Schroth is on a quest for deeper conversations, connections and a few deep belly laughs.