Westwood Living Podcast Network

Tom Leyden and Lucy DePaula catch up at the Norwood office of GC Marble & Granite. Lucy DePaula is the owner of GC Marble & Granite and Westwood Living's Expert Contributor in Marble & Granite. In an industry without many woman-owned businesses, Lucy has set herself apart as the go-to because of her intimate knowledge of natural stone, quartz and her ability to guide customers through the process of selection and installation. In this chat, Lucy shares her background, how she started her own business in 2022 and shares the plans of her move to a brand new showroom and office in Whitman. To learn more about GC Marble & Granite, visit http://www.gcmarbleandgranite.com

Tom Leyden and Cyril Bernard connect to discuss Cyril’s Aerial Photography business, Skyscape Vision. Skyscape Vision was born out of a love and passion for aerial photography, and as you’ll hear from Cyril, this evolved into a business opportunity because drone photography and videography can be very useful for a number of purposes, from real estate to roof and gutter inspection and more. Tom and Cyril discuss what it takes to be a professional drone operator, the rules and regulations that are so important to follow, how you learn on the go and how residents can truly benefit from his services. To learn more about Skyscape Vision, visit http://www.skyscapevision.com

Tom Leyden has a fun conversation with Oscar LiDonni, the General Manager of Clay Subaru Oscar LiDonni leads the team at Clay Subaru, and talks specifically about the different manner in which Clay sells cars, how the practice started, their undying commitment to community and service, and the dealership once again being recogized with the Subaru Love Promise Award in 2026. Learn more about Clay Subaru by visiting http://www.claysubaru.com

Tom Leyden connects with Kevin Myers from the Westwood Health Department to learn more about his role as the town’s Public Health Nurse. Kevin Myers, NP, MSN has been a part of the Westwood community for approximately six months and is already contributing in many ways. On May 20, he and the staff will host a Community Health Fair at the Council on Aging. The event will run from 1-4pm and feature a number of different health organizations who will provide information and services to people of all ages.

Tom Leyden connects with Brian Clinton of Donahue Real Estate at JuicyGreens for an update on the market and the latest going on with his life. Brian was the very first sponsor of Westwood Living, coming aboard in February of 2022. He has been working in real estate since 2013 and has been a significant part of the growth and prosperity of the Donahue Real Estate team. You can learn more about Brian by visiting his website at http://www.brianclintonre.com

Lauren Watson and Sydni O'Connell join Tom Leyden to preview their upcoming two-day retreat, "Her Story - A Confidence & College Essay Retreat for Rising Senior Girls." Lauren is Westwood Living's Expert Contributor in College Admissions and Sydni is Westwood Living's Expert Contributor in Adolescent Mental Health. They are combining their expertise to assist rising senior girls as they begin the journey of applying to colleges in 2026-27. Learn more about the retreat by visiting http://www.westwood-living.com/herstoryessayretreat

Diane Rothauser & Patrick French - Noises Off by Tom Leyden

Chris Tenaglia - High Pace Construction by Tom Leyden

Tom Leyden and Tom O'Rourke connect at the headquarters of the Neponset River Regional Chamber of Commerce at the Norwood Space Center. Tom O'Rourke is the longtime president and CEO of the Neponset River Regional Chamber of Commerce, serving hundreds of business owners as they interact with the community and grow their bottom line. Tom and Tom discuss the history of the chamber, how it helps business owners, what are the hottest items on the current agenda - and most importantly discuss the Taste of The Region, scheduled for April 8 at Blue Hill Country Club in Canton. Learn more about the Chamber of Commerce by visiting http://www.nrrchamber.com

Tom Leyden connects with Dr. Dan Kazachkov and Dr. Alana Bednarz from Dental Arts of Westwood to chat about the new treatments available that utilize laser technology, for dental, orthodontic and aesthetic treatments. Learn more about Dental Arts of Westwood by visiting http://www.dentalartsofwestwood.com

Mateo Thunberg, Kira Smith & Charles Goodman - Big Fish, A New Musical by Tom Leyden

Dr. Graham & Christina Stetson: Modern Eyes by Tom Leyden

TTom Leyden and Kim Martell catch up at The Alchemist Baker in Canton. Kim Martell is a financial planner with Commonwealth Financial Group and spent some time providing some details on her career path, what motivates her and how her comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape helps her serve her clients. Learn more about Kim by visiting http://www.westwood-living.com/kimmartell

Tom Leyden and Maria Tassiopoulos catch up at Islington Pizza's 30th Anniversary celebration. Opened on December 26, 1995, Islington Pizza is a staple in Westwood, welcoming regulars and newcomers alike every day who have come to love the pizza and other great menu items the crew creates, not to mention the hospitality that makes Islington Pizza what it is. Learn more and order your next pizza by visiting http://www.islington-pizza.com

Tom Leyden connects with Tara Berry, the owner of Orangetheory Fitness, and Christen Cadigan, the head coach at the OTF Westwood location on Washington Street. Orangetheory Fitness opened in Islington in November of 2021, one of the first businesses to open in the new complex. Tara, Christen and the team have continued to build the business and share the story of their growth and why people enjoy working out. Learn more about the Orangetheory workout and how you can book a class by visiting http://www.orangetheory.com

Tom Leyden and Hania Khuri-Trapper connect to discuss the release of her second book, "Home is Here." Hania's second book in her series debuts this month, featuring a collection of thoughts and photographs serving as weekly reminders to pause, reflect and just be. You can follow Hania's journey at http://www.yogawithania.com and purchase a book at http://bit.ly/haniakhuritrapper

Tom Leyden connects with Dr. Richard Laudon, a long-time resident of Westwood. Dr. Laudon has authored many articles featured on Medium and is passionate about his work as an optometrist and the balance between health and wealth. Learn more about Dr. Laudon and read his articles at http://www.rlaudon.medium.com

Tom Leyden connects with a trio of Westwood Artists at Neroli Mercato. Carol Ahearn, Karen Cagan and Lisa WB Walker chat with Tom about the upcoming Holiday Walkabout scheduled for Saturday, December 6 from 9-2 and how the Westwood Artists continue to support each other in the community. To learn more, visit the Westwood Artists page on Facebook.

Tom Leyden and Wayne Paul from Old Colony Construction connect on the site of a project in Walpole, expanding and restoring a 100-year-old home. Construction has been in Wayne's bones since he was a young child, and the passion he brings to every project, no matter how big or small, is palpable. Learn more about Old Colony Construction by visiting http://www.oldcolonyconstruction.com

Tom Leyden connects with Marcus Colaire, the owner of BackDoor Tires in Norwood. Marcus opened BackDoor Tires seven years ago and has continually added to his garage and staff in the time since. While his specialty is tire-care, custom tires for custom cars and alignments, the team's real specialty is providing the human touch and being 100% focused on customer satisfaction and job quality. The story of growth is inspiring. Learn more about BackDoor Tires by visiting http://bit.ly/backdoortires - Call the shop at 857-763-9271 if you have any automotive needs. If the BackDoor Tires crew can't help you, they'll find the expert who can.

Tom Leyden connects with Hank Murray, Michael Mansour and Avery Place, three Westwood High School seniors who will perform in the production of Space Princess Wars, scheduled for Thursday, November 6 and Saturday, November 8. Learn more and buy tickets at http://www.westwoodstage.com

Tom Leyden connects with Lauren Watson, the owner of Watson College Consulting. Lauren and Tom discuss the inevitable crunch of the fall semester. how current seniors navigate through it and how younger students and their families can effectively prepare for it. Lauren also provides some great tips and strategies for younger students as they start exploring options for their lives after high school. Learn more about Lauren and contact her by visiting http://www.watsoncollegeconsulting.net

Tom Leyden connects with Sue Young, a Westwood resident and owner of The Vanderbilt Club in Norwood. The Vanderbilt Club prides itself on being a welcoming environment for people of all ages who prioritize staying active and keeping in the best shape possible. At The Vanderbilt Club, they find a warm, engaging staff, with fantastic energy and kindess, plus top-notch facilities and a seemingly unending menu of classes available each week. Sue definitely wanted to make sure Mary Lawton received the credit she's due as a fantastic asset at The Vanderbilt Club - sometimes it's tough to remember everyone when the microphone is live! Learn more about The Vanderbilt Club and take advantage of some fantastic promotions by visiting http://www.vanderbiltclub.com

Tom Leyden connects with Bachir Awad, the owner of B'known European Hair Design in Westwood. Bachir and his team moved into the new location at 689 High Street just as the calendar flipped to 2025 and the reception has been remarkable from the community. The beautiful salon has enjoyed great success in the months since. Bachir shares his history of growing up in Lebanon, how he was drawn to be a hair stylist, his incredible partnership with his manager, Effie Mitros, and how rewarding it is to see many people in town who have had their hair styled at B'known.

Tom Leyden connects with Lindsey Gillooly and Allison Daly, the co-owners of Medical Aesthetics. Medical Aesthetics is approaching its one-year anniversary in Westwood, and also has locations in Easton, Hingham and Milton. Tom, Allison and Lindsey talk about the ever-changing nature of the med spa business, how Medical Aesthetics has settled into its space on High Street, how they stay on top of the latest trends and what some of the most popular treatments are. To learn more about Medical Aesthetics, visit http://www.medicalaestheticsma.com

Tom Leyden and Jodiann Tenney connect to talk about Jodiann's debut book, Carefully Vetted. Tom and Jodiann are friends dating back 35 years when they first met as first-year students at Boston College. Jodi's debut novel is excerpted in the September issue of Westwood Living, and is available at Amazon.com. Tom and Jodiann talk about what made her want to write a book, how she wove her life experiences into the process and if any of the characters are a reflection of her, or those closest to her. #westwood #westwoodliving #westwoodma #bostoncollege #romancenovel #jodianntenney #carefullyvetted #book #fiction #novel #debutauthor #author #books #newbooks #reading #entertainment #writingprocess

Tom Leyden connects with Harper Morrison, September's Dental Arts of Westwood Athlete of The Month. Harper is in the midst of her freshman year at Longwood University, and when she graduated from Westwood High School in June, she left with 12 varsity letters in her collection, more than any other member of the graduating class. Harper and Tom discuss her journey through the Westwood sports programs, her best memories and what she's looking forward to as she begins the next chapter of her life.

Tom Leyden connects with Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman to talk about their transitions to broadcasting and how they've applied the skills they learned as players to their new careers as analysts for FOX Sports coverage of the National Football League. FOX NFL Sunday and FOX NFL Kickoff

Tom Leyden connects with Matthew LaSpisa, otherwise known as "Private Chef Matt." Matthew LaSpisa is an NASM Certified Health Coach & Private Chef who writes the Healthy Eating column each month in Westwood Living. Tom and Matt discuss his love for nutrition and coaching people how to live a healthier lifestyle, which actually dates back to when he was exposed to his family's garden in the heart of Brooklyn, NY.

Tom Leyden connects with eight-time state champion runner Maeve Gavin, our Dental Arts of Westwood Athlete of the Month, at the Westwood Library. Maeve Gavin is coming off one of the most remarkable seasons in Westwood running history, winning five state championships as a junior, complementing the other three she has won over the course of her career at Westwood High School. Tom and Maeve chat about how she started running, the success of Westwood's cross country and track programs, the inspiration she draws from her teammates and how upperclassmen made a huge difference when she was young.

Tom Leyden connects with rising 6th grader Gavin Donahue, the winner of Martha Jones "Join Us On A Podcast" auction. Gavin recently graduated from Martha Jones and talks about his life in Westwood, his love of football, who he likes to emulate and what his plans are for the summer of '25 and deep into the future - favorite movie, favorite place to vacation, favorite book - all included.

Tom Leyden connects with Sean Blomquist and Brady Dumais on the bleachers of Russell Downes Field. Sean and Brady are the Dental Arts of Westwood Athletes of the Month for July. The best friends played a total of 12 seasons together at Westwood High School - golf, hockey and baseball all four years. The trio talk about that rare accomplishment, their best memories of being athletes at Westwood High School, their future plans at Clemson University and what they'll remember most about their time in green and white.

Tom Leyden connects with Paul McGovern from inside 42 Hartford Street in Dover, a brand-new home Paul and his team at CorMc Developments built from the ground up.  Paul McGovern is the owner of CorMc Developments, a company capable of completing major projects, much like the new property at 42 Hartford Street, developed on 1.3 acres of land surrounded by trees and a lush backyard.  Tom and Paul talk about the project on Hartford, as well as one of Paul's most recent projects, The Pastures at Dover, a 34-unit apartment complex filled to capacity on Route 109 in Dover. They also discuss the latest innovations and trends in construction and what's ahead for the CorMc team.  Learn more about Paul and CorMc Developments at http://www.cormcllc.com

Tom Leyden catches up with Ara & Evan Yarian at the bar at Beacons Restaurant. Ara & Evan are Westwood natives who now own a pair of restaurants - Beacons, on 85 Providence Highway in East Walpole, and Eagle Brook Saloon, on 285 Dedham Street in Norfolk. During the conversation, we chat about their experience growing up in Westwood, how the community has supported them, how Beacons Restaurant came to be (again) after a stint where another business operated in the same space, their commitment to supporting the family of Todd Schwartz, the pizza review by Barstool Sports Dave Portnoy that created a huge spike in business at Eagle Brook Saloon, and what they see in their near future. Learn more about Beacons - http://beaconsrestaurant.com Learn more about Eagle Brook Saloon - http://eaglebrooksaloonnorfolk.com

Lina Angelici & Terry Finnegan Lynch: 50th Reunion Co-Chairs by Tom Leyden

Tom Leyden and Chris Hancock connect from the gazebo at Westwood's senior center. Chris Hancock has entered the Falmouth Road Race for a 20th straight year, once again raising awareness and funds for The Boston House, a home that is near and dear to the Hancock family. Chris lost his brother to cancer when he was very young, and the costs associated with the cancer fight are staggering. The Boston House is a home for people from out of town to live when their loved one is battling cancer. During the conversation, we also got great updates on each of his three kids, who had incredible months of achievement. If you'd like to learn more and support Chris in his effort, you can visit http://bit.ly/falmouthhancock

Tom Leyden connects with Jason Dornhoffer to learn more about United Private Car, the business Jason has co-owned for nearly 20 years. Jason Dornhoffer is a Westwood resident and founded United Private Car with his friend and colleague, Terry Murtaugh, in 2006. Tom and Jason discuss the growth of the business, how United Private Car has continued to set itself apart from the competition, Jason's experience of living in Westwood since 2003 and what he sees for the future. Learn more about United Private Car by visiting http://www.unitedprivatecar.com

Tom Leyden chats with Shannon Connell, the administrator of White Oak Cottages, about senior living and memory care. Shannon Connell has worked at Fox Hill Village for 25 years, spending the last 13 as the administrator at White Oak Cottages, the memory care households at Fox Hill Village in Westwood. Tom and Shannon discuss her background, lessons she's learned working in senior living for more than half of her life, questions families should be asking as they prepare to make end-of-life decisions and how to create a checklist of to-dos that make planning easier. To learn more, visit http://www.foxhillvillage.com

Aaron Morehouse - Hale Education by Tom Leyden

Tim Harrison - Why & How Branding Works by Tom Leyden

Tom Leyden connects with Nathalie Homsy during a very busy week as she prepares Mother's Day and Graduation orders for her customers all over the world. Nathalie Homsy, a Westwood resident, built Omniya Delicacy from the ground-up, combining her love of fine chocolate and appreciation for Mediterrean quality with a magnetic personality and drive that has led to great success in less than two years. Tom and Nathalie discuss the growth of Omniya, the incredible popularity of the "Dubai Bars," how she's working with companies to help them create meaningful client appreciation packages and how she's managing an international business. Learn more about Omniya Delicacy by visiting http://www.omniyas.com and call Nathalie at 781-757-1156

Chris Tenaglia - High Pace Construction by Tom Leyden

Tom Leyden connects with Lars Lambros, who has spent 33 years working as a team member at Dedham Health & Athletic Complex. Lars Lambros provides a great overview of the many options Dedham Health & Athletic Complex has for kids and families this summer. The Summer Camp Series and Summer Club program are incredibly popular, and a major part of what Dedham Health offers the community in its 241,000 square foot facility. It's the time of year to be thinking about what your kids will be doing this summer, so have a listen and learn more by visiting http://www.dedhamhealth.com

Tom Leyden catches up with Ed Jones from Iron Hog BBQ as he feeds the masses at Bubbling Brook. Ed Jones and his team from Iron Hog BBQ will be at Bubbling Brook every Tuesday throughout the summer - serving up brisket, pulled pork, chicken, ribs and mac & cheese. If you're hungry and want some legit BBQ, now you know where to go. You can always call Ed to get authentic BBQ and he'll hook it up for you - 774-279-3660 or visit http://www.ironhogbbq.com

Tom Leyden connects with Aaron Buczek, president of the Rotary Club of Westwood, to share details of the Annual Rotary Family Pancake Breakfast, scheduled for Sunday, May 4 at First Baptist Church from 9am-12pm. Aaron Buczek is a financial advisor at North Atlantic Investment Partners, working in conjunction with Raymond James. He has been the long-standing president of the Rotary Club, working with a mighty group of members to make a difference in the Westwood community. We invite you to join us on Sunday, May 4 for a fun time featuring food, drinks, music, arts & crafts, face-painting and general FUN for the whole family. Whichever elementary school has the highest participation by percentage will receive a special party, courtesy of the Rotary Club. Tickets are available now at http://bit.ly/rotarypancakes

Tom Leyden and Charlotte Walsh connect to chat about her second passion, cut-flower farming, and the growth of Dorothy's Flower Garden. Charlotte named Dorothy's Flower Garden after her grandmother, who owned a flower shop in Charlottesville, VA. Charlotte's love or learning and interest in nature drew her to discover the art of cut-flower farming. She shares with Tom how she's planned for the 2025 season and how people can benefit from the hard work she's put in to creating a farm featuring 14 different varieties of flowers, right in Westwood. Learn more about Charlotte and Dorothy's Flower Garden, by visiting http://www.dorothysflowergarden.com

Tom Leyden connects with Charlotte Walsh, the owner of Charles River Running in Norwood, who also was featured on the cover of Westwood Living in April, 2024. Charlottte owns and operates her own business in Norwood, and previously served in the United States Marine Corps. She and Tom discuss her path to military service, how her entire family has served the United States, and what drove her to open up a running store. Charlotte's passion for running and her entrepreneurial spirit have made her successful, but her dedication to cultivating a community of runners and walkers makes her incredibly unique. The Run Strong group can include 80-100 people on any given Thursday when she organizes a gathering, and serves a great purpose for so many in the community Learn more about Charlotte and Charles River Running by visiting her website at http://www.charlesriverrunning.com

Tom Leyden connects with Bryan Parkin, the general manager of Bar'Cino Westwood at Bar'Cino's bar. Bryan Parkin has been with the Newport Restaurant Group for many years and recently took over as the GM of the Westwood Bar'Cino, which opened in November. During the conversation, Bryan talks about the unique business model that sets the Newport Restaurant Group apart. NRG is employee owned, and you'll hear Bryan talk a lot about the "ESOP" model, which refers to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan. An ESOP is a retirement plan that gives employees partial or full ownership of a company. ESOPs are designed to align employee interests with those of shareholders. Bryan and Tom also discuss Bar'Cino's commitment to community, how the restaurant group regularly engages with town initiatives and, of course, what's been the key to Bar'Cino's success since the November launch. Also - they discuss catering, a powerful part of the business that Bryan helped develop and is available at their website, http://www.barcino.com/westwood

Tom Leyden and Diana Brouillard, the co-owner and CEO of Dream Spa Medical, connect to chat about a bunch of topics related to aesthetic and wellness care. Diana, whose story was featured on the cover of Westwood Living's May, 2023 issue, details the growth of Dream Spa Medical and what has changed in the world of aesthetics recently. Not only are more people regularly making aesthetic care a part of their regular routine, they are talking about it. Additionally, Diana talks about the use of IV therapies and how working with a Med Spa's staff is a great way to learn about the benefits of semaglutide and begin the weight-loss journey with a knowledgeable, hands-on team. Lastly, she details a number of events on the calendar where people can learn more about what Dream Spa does and have some fun with the family. Find the events at http://www.westwood-living.com and learn more about the Dream Spa Medical team at http://www.dreamspamedical.com

Tom Leyden and Maddie Walter, who was featured on the March cover of Westwood Living, chat at Terma Goods in Dedham. Maddie, who suffered a traumatic brain injury in May, 2015, has been a force in the TBI community thanks to her intelligence, fitness and drive. Her commitment to recovery and dedication to helping other people who are experiencing similar challenges is nothing short of inspiring. The Walter family formed the non-profit charity called "Life Goes On After TBI" to assist other families who are working to recover from traumatic brain injuries. You can find Maddie's story, written by Diana Bezdedeanu at http://www.westwood-living.com/march25 and you can learn more about Life Goes On After TBI by visiting http://www.lgoaftertbi.com