It’s Freitag! - Business and Life in the Monadnock Region

In this episode of It's Freitag, Jan sits down with Wink Faulkner, founder of Red House Advisors, to talk about what four decades in business really teaches you. From Markham to Italy to the CEO seat, Wink shares why servant leadership works, why the fundamentals matter, and how helping others is the best business strategy of all.

Paul Finley, owner of Finley Construction, shares how he went from running a painting business to leading a 15+ person construction company in New Hampshire. In this episode, Paul talks about the systems, team culture, and client experience that made scaling possible — and the hard lessons learned along the way. A must-listen if you're in the trades or growing a service business.

In this episode of It’s Freitag Podcast, Jan Ziegler sits down with Jordan Cemorelis, founder of Max Aesthetics, to talk about her transition from pediatric ICU nurse to entrepreneur. From building a med spa rooted in clinical expertise to balancing business ownership with advanced medical training, Jordan shares an honest look at growth, risk, and creating a patient-centered approach to aesthetics and wellness.

Jan Ziegler sits down with Corinne Breton-Benfield, Executive Director of Stay Work Play NH, to talk about workforce challenges, young talent retention, and building a stronger future for New Hampshire. From addressing housing and childcare barriers to fostering collaboration across business, government, and community leaders, this episode explores how intentional action can shape a more sustainable and thriving state.

Jan Ziegler sits down with Michelle DellaVita, Director of Leadership Monadnock at the Greater Monadnock Collaborative, to talk about regional leadership development, workforce retention, and building stronger community connections. From expanding leadership pipelines to fostering cross-sector collaboration, this episode dives into how intentional leadership strengthens the entire Monadnock Region.

In this episode of It's Freitag Podcast, host Jan Ziegler interviews Colleen Spear, founder of Spearpoint Strategies. Colleen shares her journey from sustainability student to business consultant, explaining how she helps companies scale and grow with purpose through systems and strategy. From the importance of networking to redefining consulting for small businesses, Colleen offers insights into building businesses that thrive long-term without losing their culture or values. Tune in for practical advice on creating systems that support both profit and purpose.

In this episode of It’s Freitag Podcast, Jan Ziegler sits down with Joe Shawver, owner of The Square Books. They discuss Joe’s journey building a bookkeeping business rooted in trust, education, and long-term relationships. Tune in for valuable insights on understanding the story behind the numbers, helping business owners identify profitability, and growing a service-based business through referrals and community involvement.

In this episode of It’s Freitag, Jan Ziegler sits down with Emily Benson, Head of Employee Success at Bensonwood. They discuss Emily's journey growing up in her family’s construction business, the innovative apprenticeships she's creating to solve local workforce challenges, and her vision for the future of Keene. Tune in for valuable insights on workforce development, community leadership, and the importance of housing and downtown vitality.

In this episode of It’s Freitag, Jan Ziegler sits down with Todd Horner, Executive Director at the Southwest Region Planning Commission. They discuss Todd's journey from farming to leading regional planning, tackling challenges like affordable housing, transportation, and climate resilience across the Monadnock Region. Tune in for valuable insights on community planning and the future of small towns.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Andy DeMeo, creator of Granite Goodness, to explore how optimism and progress-driven storytelling can reshape the way we see the world. Andy shares what inspired him to push back against the negativity bias in traditional media, the overlooked stories of progress in areas like health, equality, and sustainability, and how he’s applying this “progress journalism” lens to highlight innovation and collaboration across New England communities. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about media, community impact, and building a movement around positive storytelling.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Collin and Tim Hart of Hart Brothers Tree Service to discuss their journey from wildland firefighters to business owners. They share how their experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail and fighting fires gave them the confidence to start a tree service, the importance of community trust in their growth, and how they balance equipment investments with maintaining a strong focus on quality and honesty. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, family collaboration, and the great outdoors.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with A.J. Kierstead, communications professional and outreach coordinator for the New Hampshire Insurance Department, to discuss balancing a career in public service with media, creative ambitions, and family life. A.J. shares his journey of navigating the evolving landscape of podcasting and media in New Hampshire, while also making time to stay connected to his community and find joy in his work.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Alana Fiero—Freitag Marketing team member and President of the Keene Young Professionals Network—to discuss building community, creating opportunities for young talent, and growing KYPN into a hub for leadership and local impact. Alana also shares her journey from corporate philanthropy to founding Taste of Keene during the pandemic.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Jay Hayston—nonprofit changemaker, data-driven strategist, and CEO of Cedarcrest—to explore how compassionate leadership, bold decisions, and innovative care models are reshaping what’s possible for medically complex children and the teams who support them.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler chats with Barb Weisman—food equity advocate, endurance athlete, and Executive Director of the Community Kitchen—to explore how mission-driven leadership and creative collaboration can turn mobile pantries into future food trucks and tackle systemic hunger, all powered by personal passion and community roots.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler chats with Charles Oropallo—Marine Corps veteran, early internet pioneer, and founder of CharlesWorks—to explore how local trust can drive long-term success in a global industry. From building one of the first dial-up BBS systems in the 70s to running a transparent, community-rooted web business, Charles shares stories, lessons, and the value of aesthetics in a digital world.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Jeff Saari, a leadership coach and “business therapist” based in Keene, NH, to talk about burnout, authentic leadership, and building healthier companies from the inside out. From his early journey through depression and meditation retreats to becoming a trusted advisor for business owners and teams, Jeff shares powerful insights on workplace culture, coaching that actually works, and why knowing your strengths can change everything.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Greg Curry, a nationally ranked Mortgage Loan Originator based in Keene, NH, to talk about career pivots, trust-based business, and thriving in a competitive market. From his background in hospitality to building a top 1% mortgage career, Greg shares candid insights on client relationships, today’s real estate landscape, and balancing high performance with family life.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Steve Fortier, Administrator of Rural Economic Development at NH’s Department of Business and Economic Affairs, to talk about collaboration over competition, workforce challenges, and the future of local economies. From his path through nonprofit leadership to supporting manufacturers in Keene, Steve shares practical insights on building stronger, more connected rural communities.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Mark DiPietro, Vice President of Marketing at Franklin Pierce University, to talk about the changing world of higher ed marketing—and how colleges can cut through the noise. From his transition from journalism to PR to university leadership, to the return of direct mail and building brand around what makes Franklin Pierce unique, Mark shares thoughtful insights on leading with strategy in a competitive space.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Gina Burke, Executive Director of Monadnock DEIB Coalition, to talk about courageous leadership, rebuilding trust, and the challenges facing DEIB work today. From her shift from tech to community impact, to data-driven insights and partnerships with groups like Keene Pride, Gina shares an inspiring look at what it takes to lead with purpose.

In Episode 14 of It’s Freitag, host Jan Ziegler welcomes back Tim Pipp to talk about Talentshare—a new tool he and Jan co-created to help small business owners delegate with ease. They dive into real use cases, the power of a call-in task system, and why no one should try to do it all alone. Packed with practical insights and honest conversation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to lighten their workload.

In this episode, host Jan Ziegler talks with Jeff Whitcomb, President of Communicators Group, about the evolution of marketing and the power of creativity. Jeff shares his journey from copywriting to leading teams, reflects on his time at Eastern Mountain Sports, and explores why human insight still matters in a world shaped by AI. A must-listen for anyone interested in branding, career growth, and how marketing continues to evolve.

In Episode 12 of It’s Freitag, host Jan Ziegler talks with Aubrey Saxton, founder of Saxy Chef, about how a spontaneous moment at a local farm stand turned into a thriving pie business. Aubrey shares her journey from seasonal baking to leading a small team that now produces over 40,000 pies a year. She dives into the realities of scaling a food business, learning to price sustainably, saying no to big chains, and launching a frozen pie line to expand nationwide—all while staying true to her roots in Keene, New Hampshire. Whether you're into entrepreneurship, local business, or just appreciate a great story, this episode is full of honest insights and inspiration.

It’s Freitag is a podcast hosted by Jan Ziegler that dives into work, growth, and making the most of our weekends. In Episode 11, Jan sits down with Mark Bodin, President of Savings Bank of Walpole, to explore what it means to lead a community-first bank in a rapidly changing world. From putting relationships before profits to navigating tech disruption with purpose, this episode offers powerful insights for anyone interested in conscious leadership and local impact. New episodes every Friday—because great ideas deserve a great start to the weekend.

In this episode of It’s Freitag, Jan sits down with Keene legend Ted McGreer, owner of Ted’s Shoe & Sport, to celebrate 25 years of local business, community, and a whole lot of hustle. Ted reflects on his journey from ski bum to small business owner, sharing the ups, downs, and everything in between—from six bank rejections to building one of the city’s most beloved spots.

In this episode of It’s Freitag, Jan and Julie sit down to catch up on all things life, art, and community. Julie shares updates on recent visitors, reflects on the importance of showing up for others, and celebrates a big milestone—her recent promotion to President and CEO of the GMS. As always, their easygoing banter and honest insights bring warmth, laughter, and a refreshing sense of connection.

In this episode of It's Freitag, the guest is Keith Marks, a passionate advocate for arts and culture. Keith shares his journey in the creative world, discussing how he built platforms to amplify artistic voices and foster community engagement. He talks about the importance of accessibility in the arts, the challenges and rewards of curating cultural experiences, and how storytelling plays a crucial role in connecting people. The conversation also touches on his personal motivations, lessons learned, and what’s next for him in his mission to make art more inclusive and impactful.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler chats with Adam Berube, owner of three restaurants in Keene, NH. They discuss Adam’s journey from theater major to restaurateur, the challenges of running multiple businesses, and the evolving food scene in Keene. Plus, Adam shares insights on building strong teams, adapting to customer needs, and his favorite local spots.

In this episode of It’s Freitag!, host Jan Ziegler sits down with Becky Beaton, Executive Director of Hundred Nights. Becky shares her journey from a career in banking to leading a nonprofit focused on housing and food insecurity. They discuss the growing need for shelter beds, the challenges of affordable housing in New Hampshire, and the critical role of partnerships in supporting the community. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the realities of homelessness, mental health, and the work being done to bridge the gap between emergency shelter and long-term housing solutions.

In this episode of It’s FriTag, host Jan Ziegler sits down with Tim Pipp, owner of Beeze Tees, to talk about his journey from screen printing in his college basement to building a thriving business with multiple ventures. Tim shares insights on entrepreneurship, growth through acquisitions, and the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining passion and balance. Plus, we dive into his unexpected side hustle—3D printing toys! Tune in for an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation about business, creativity, and finding success in unexpected places.

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Julianna Dodson, Executive Director of the Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurship. Julianna shares her journey from an accounting background to the nonprofit world, her experience living and working abroad, and her vision for fostering a regenerative economy in New Hampshire. They also discuss rural business challenges, the importance of community-driven initiatives, and—of course—what makes a perfect weekend. Tune in for an insightful and inspiring conversation!

In this episode of It's Freitag, Jan sits down with Jill Exel, a seasoned realtor with a background in marketing and design. Jill shares her journey into real estate, insights into the Monadnock region’s housing market, and advice for buyers, sellers, and even employers looking to support new hires with housing. Plus, she reveals some of her favorite local spots and what makes a perfect weekend. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical tips and regional insights!

On this episode of It’s Freitag, host Jan Ziegler chats with Brad Martin, Director of Sales and Operations at Worldwide Computer Solutions. Brad shares his journey from New Hampshire to the West Coast and back, offering insights into IT security, business growth, and the importance of proactive tech management. Plus, we dive into his love for fat-tire biking and how he enjoys the Monadnock region. Tune in for an engaging mix of business and personal stories!

In the first episode of It's Freitag, host Jan Ziegler sits down with Caroline Tremblay, the creative mind behind Owl and Pen Writing. Caroline shares her journey from classroom teacher to writer, building a collective of freelance creatives in the Monadnock region. They discuss the art of storytelling for businesses, balancing work and life in New Hampshire, and her exciting plans for 2025! Don’t miss Caroline’s inspiring take on growth and creativity.