On The Scene

Discover the stories, culture, and creativity shaping Greater Hartford in this engaging episode of On The Scene with Tom Hickey and Bob Carr. The conversation takes listeners inside the New Britain Museum of American Art with special guest Lisa Lappe, Chief Operating Officer of the museum. From the exciting Museum After Dark events to powerful new exhibitions celebrating Puerto Rican and Indigenous American artists, this episode highlights why the museum continues to attract visitors from West Hartford and beyond. Listeners will also get a preview of major upcoming exhibits featuring Mary Cassatt, Louise Nevelson, and The Wyeths. Packed with community insight, local culture, and inspiring conversation, this episode showcases the people and organizations making a difference across the region. Listen now and stay connected to everything happening On The Scene in West Hartford and surrounding communities.

The latest episode of On The Scene brings listeners deeper into the heart of West Hartford with a conversation focused on community connection, local media, and the people working to keep residents informed and engaged. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Jennifer Evans and Ryan Young from WHCI to discuss how community television continues to evolve while serving as a vital resource for local government coverage, sports, events, and storytelling. From fundraising efforts and volunteer opportunities to upcoming workshops and town celebrations, this episode highlights the passion and collaboration that make West Hartford thrive. Listeners will discover how WHCI is adapting to changing media habits while continuing to bring neighbors together through local programming and shared experiences. If you care about staying connected to West Hartford and supporting the organizations that strengthen the community, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Listen now.

Get ready to experience the pulse of West Hartford and beyond in this engaging episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr bring you inside one of the area’s most anticipated community events, the Taste of West Hartford. Discover how local restaurants, business leaders, and community partners come together to create an experience that celebrates food, connection, and local impact. From behind-the-scenes insights on event planning to the stories driving collaboration across West Hartford, New Britain, and surrounding towns, this episode delivers real value for anyone who wants to stay connected to what’s happening locally. You will hear how partnerships, local business innovation, and community support fuel events that bring people together. If you care about your community, local businesses, and meaningful experiences, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Listen now and stay connected to what’s happening On The Scene.

Stay connected to what matters most in West Hartford and beyond with this engaging episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Andreas Kapetanopoulos and Nicole Lent Pollard from NBT Bank to explore local business growth, community expansion, and the real-world impact of financial security.From new branch development and regional investment to the growing challenges of fraud and identity protection, this conversation delivers practical insights that every resident and business owner can use. You will hear firsthand how today’s scams work, how to recognize them, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your finances.Grounded in local relevance and delivered with a conversational, community-first approach, this episode reflects the heartbeat of West Hartford. It is information you can use, from voices you trust, focused on keeping your community informed, safe, and thriving.

Get inside the engine behind one of Connecticut’s most recognizable brand in this engaging episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with UConn’s Kyle Muncy to explore how strategic branding, partnerships, and innovation have elevated UConn into a national powerhouse. From the evolution of the iconic Husky identity to the explosive growth of NIL merchandise and retail experiences, this conversation delivers a clear look at how brand strategy drives community pride and economic impact. You will also hear how UConn connects fans, students, and businesses across West Hartford and beyond. If you care about local success stories, business leadership, and the energy shaping our region, this episode brings it all together with insight you can use and stories you will remember.

West Hartford has a new reason to smile and it is delicious. On this episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Paul Parks III and Kendra Walker of Frisbie’s Dairy Barn to talk about the craft, passion, and community behind one of Connecticut’s fastest growing ice cream brands.Listeners get an inside look at how Frisbie’s creates its super premium small batch ice cream, why quality ingredients matter, and how the team built a thriving business that started in New Britain and is now expanding across the region. The conversation also highlights their exciting new location in Blue Back Square, right in the heart of West Hartford.From creative seasonal flavors to hands-on ice cream classes and community events, this episode captures the entrepreneurial spirit that makes local businesses thrive. Tune in to discover a sweet success story and stay connected to what is happening around West Hartford and the surrounding communities.

Go behind the scenes of one of Connecticut’s most trusted family businesses in this episode of NBT Bank's On the Scene. Host Tom Hickey and co-host Bob Carr sit down with Mark Hatch of French Cleaners to explore how a century-old company continues to thrive in a changing world.Mark shares how the cleaning industry has evolved after COVID, the rise of casual wear, and the shift toward modern fabrics. He explains innovative services like wet cleaning, garment restoration, climate-controlled storage, and in-house tailoring. The conversation also highlights French Cleaners’ roots dating back to 1911, its commitment to craftsmanship, and its reputation for handling heirlooms and specialty projects with care.Listeners also learn how trust, service, and attention to detail have kept French Cleaners relevant for over five generations.Tune in to hear how tradition, technology, and community come together. Listen now and stay connected with NBT Bank's On the Scene.

This episode of On The Scene delivers a thoughtful, community-first conversation focused on West Hartford’s present and future. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome West Hartford Town Councilor John Lyons for an open discussion on growth, development, and what it truly means to serve a community. The conversation explores housing challenges, smart redevelopment, transit access, and the importance of keeping local government focused on people, not politics. Lyons shares candid insights from his time in town leadership, offering clarity on zoning, affordability, taxes, and why collaboration matters more than party lines. Throughout the episode, the focus stays on real issues facing residents today and how informed dialogue can shape better outcomes tomorrow. With a positive and conversational tone, this episode gives listeners a clearer understanding of how decisions are made and why community engagement matters. If you care about West Hartford and the direction it is heading, this is a must-listen conversation.

On this episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome longtime Connecticut journalist Dennis House for a wide-ranging, community-focused conversation that connects local stories to the bigger picture. Dennis shares behind-the-scenes moments from a career spent telling Connecticut’s stories, from memorable interviews to the curiosity that drives real journalism. The discussion highlights Dennis' work as a journalist, the Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation and its growing impact across the state, along with thoughtful reflections on history, infrastructure, and the people who shape our neighborhoods. As always, Tom and Bob keep the tone warm, conversational, and rooted in what matters most to residents of West Hartford and surrounding towns. This episode offers insight, perspective, and a renewed appreciation for community storytelling done right, straight from voices that know Connecticut best.

Stay connected to the pulse of West Hartford with this engaging episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Barbara Karsky of BK & Company for an inspiring conversation about fashion, community, and the ever-evolving life of West Hartford Center. Barbara shares the real challenges local retailers faced during construction, how customer habits shape business success, and why the center remains vibrant and resilient.You will hear smart insights on how West Hartford’s demographic is shifting, why digital content like virtual styling has become a powerful community connector, and how local businesses continue to adapt with creativity and optimism. Tom and Bob bring their signature conversational warmth and motivating style, making this a must-listen for anyone who loves West Hartford and the neighborhoods that make it thrive.Tune in for honest stories, practical takeaways, and a deeper appreciation for the businesses that shape our hometown.

Step inside the conversations that shape West Hartford with a new episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr bring their upbeat, community-focused style to a lively discussion with University of Saint Joseph President Rhona Free. This episode highlights the energy, innovation, and growth happening right in our backyard. From new academic programs and expanded student life to community partnerships, athletics, arts events, and even future ice hockey teams, every topic shows how USJ continues to evolve with purpose.Tom and Bob guide listeners through a motivating, down-to-earth conversation that spotlights the people, ideas, and institutions making West Hartford stronger. If you care about local progress, education, or the stories behind what makes this community thrive, this is an episode you will not want to miss. Tune in and stay connected to what’s happening On The Scene.

West Hartford comes alive in this inspiring new episode of On The Scene with hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr. Joined by Chamber of Commerce President Chris Conway, the conversation celebrates the creative spirit and community pride behind the Best of West Hartford and its beloved outdoor art project—Benchmark 2025. From the vibrant Pride Bench to the heartfelt Survivor Bench, each piece tells a story of connection, creativity, and local collaboration. Listeners will discover how local artists, sponsors, and residents unite to support the Chamber’s mission of strengthening businesses, nonprofits, and community life. The episode shines a spotlight on West Hartford’s unique ability to blend art, commerce, and compassion into a thriving local culture. Hear how these benches bring people together—literally and figuratively—while raising funds for the Chamber’s continued community programs.Listen now on your favorite podcast app and stay On The Scene in West Hartford.

In this inspiring episode of On The Scene with host Tom Hickey, listeners are invited to celebrate the incredible 95-year journey of The Jewish Ledger — a true testament to dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Joined by editor Judy Jacobson and Digital Marketing Manager Hilary Pasternak Sarrasin, Tom explores how the Ledger has endured through decades of change, from the Great Depression to the digital era, while remaining a trusted voice for Jewish life in Southern New England. Listeners will hear powerful stories of leadership, perseverance, and purpose that remind us why passion and community commitment never go out of style. It’s a conversation about legacy, teamwork, and the drive to create impact that lasts. Tune in and discover what it really takes to keep a mission alive for nearly a century.

Step into the heart of West Hartford’s creative scene in this engaging episode of NBT Bank's On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with artists Sam FerrI and Kelly Kelly to explore the story behind the town’s most talked-about public art project: the vibrant bench installations that have transformed community spaces into living galleries. Discover how these artists overcame unique creative challenges, from designing on complex surfaces to making art people can literally sit on. Hear their personal stories, artistic inspirations, and how public art builds stronger connections between people, place, and purpose. Plus, learn how these installations support local nonprofits and why the West Hartford Chamber’s work is vital for small businesses and the community. Whether you’re an art lover, entrepreneur, or just curious about how creativity can shape a city, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on the power of public art.

On this episode of On The Scene, Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome Justin Cote, Vice President at Hitchcock Printing in New Britain—celebrating 120+ years in print. Justin reveals how a legacy shop stays future-ready: an apprenticeship pipeline with New Britain High School and CCSU, cross-training that builds true craftspeople, and steady capital investments—from a 40" four-color press to high-speed digital with inline book finishing and pharma-grade folding.They unpack common design pitfalls (hello RGB vs. CMYK and the importance of bleeds) and share practical tips for creators using tools like Canva to get print-perfect results. Justin also dives into the resurgence of direct mail—why tactile pieces drive stronger response—and how Hitchcock’s pre-sort mailing operation can cut postage and push over a million pieces a day. Speed, transparency, and service tie it all together.If you care about quality, timelines, and ROI—from business cards to major publications and high-volume mail—this conversation shows why Hitchcock has endured and how they help brands win in print today. Presented by NBT Bank, proud supporter of local business.

In this episode of NBT Bank’s On The Scene Podcast, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Maureen Kennedy, Senior Business Banking Officer at NBT Bank, and Andreas Kapetanopoulos, President of NBT Bank Connecticut. Together, they dive into the bank’s deep roots in the community, their support of local organizations like the Aurora Foundation, and the personal relationships that set NBT apart.Maureen shares how NBT Bank helps businesses of every size—from cash flow management and treasury services to fraud prevention and insurance solutions—while Andreas discusses the bank’s growth, community engagement, and expansion into new Connecticut markets. Listeners will also gain insights into what it takes to build strong banking relationships and why trust, urgency, and accessibility make all the difference.Whether you’re a small business owner, a community leader, or someone looking for a more personal banking experience, this conversation shines a light on how NBT Bank goes beyond transactions to create lasting impact.

In this powerful episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Brianna Dunlap, Director of Development and Community Relations at South Park Inn, a Hartford-based homeless shelter making a life-changing impact. Brianna shares her personal journey into nonprofit work, her passion for helping vulnerable communities, and the powerful mission of South Park Inn—to break the cycle of homelessness and provide shelter, dignity, and hope for those in need.From serving older adults and veterans to offering post-hospitalization programs and community support, Brianna pulls back the curtain on the realities of homelessness, the challenges of funding cuts, and the inspiring resilience of their guests. She also highlights South Park Inn’s upcoming Shake It Out fundraiser—a unique dance event designed to spread joy while raising critical support.This episode is a moving reminder of how compassion, advocacy, and community action can create real change. Whether you’re inspired to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more, this conversation will open your eyes and your heart.

In this episode of the On The Scene Podcast, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Mike Roy of Roy Web Design to uncover what really makes a website work for your business. Mike shares his journey from working at multiple agencies to building his own successful firm, where he specializes in web design, hosting, and search engine optimization (SEO).You’ll learn why so many businesses struggle with websites that look great but fail to bring results, how Google’s algorithms and AI snippets shape search rankings, and why owning your content with platforms like WordPress gives you control and long-term value. Mike also explains the dangers of poor hosting, AI-generated content, and quick-fix SEO tricks that can actually hurt your business.From building sites that rank, to protecting against hacks, to keeping your site live 24/7, Mike breaks down the essentials every business owner needs to know. Whether you’re starting from scratch, revamping an outdated site, or frustrated with lackluster results, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you take control of your digital presence.

In this episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Ilana Bernstein from the Community Renewal Team (CRT), Connecticut’s largest nonprofit human services organization. Ilana shares CRT’s powerful mission: helping individuals and families across Middlesex and Hartford counties overcome life’s challenges by providing critical services—from Meals on Wheels and energy assistance to shelters, veteran programs, and senior support.Listeners will gain insight into how CRT supports nearly 50,000 individuals annually, why fundraising is essential, and how anyone can make a difference—whether through donations, volunteering in CRT’s industrial kitchen, or participating in the upcoming Meals on Wheels Golf Classic on September 10. Discover the hidden impact of CRT’s work and how you can be part of the solution.Visit CRTCT.org to learn more or get involved.

In this episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Mana Zarinejad, Executive Director of the Connecticut Forum, for an insightful and inspiring conversation about the power of dialogue, culture, and community. Mana shares the Forum’s mission to spark meaningful conversations that bridge divides and bring people together through unscripted, thought-provoking events featuring diverse voices—from musicians like Jon Batiste to writers like Elizabeth Gilbert and Roxane Gay.You’ll get a sneak peek at the exciting upcoming season, including guest appearances by Amber Ruffin, Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Jonah Goldberg, environmental advocate Bill McKibben, and historian Jon Meacham. From chefs and artists to policy leaders and political minds, the Connecticut Forum delivers more than just events—it delivers impact.With over three decades of history, 400+ speakers, and a commitment to building intellectual community, this episode celebrates what happens when people come together to listen, learn, and engage. Tune in to discover why the Connecticut Forum is one of Connecticut’s cultural cornerstones—and why every voice on stage is just the beginning of the conversation. Visit ctforum.org for more details.

In this episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome Yvonne Alston, founder and Chief Culture Architect of Indelible Impressions Consulting, for a compelling conversation about the future of workplace culture. Yvonne shares her mission to help organizations build inclusive, human-centric environments that value dignity, empathy, and belonging.Together, they explore how post-pandemic shifts, the racial reckoning of 2020, and generational differences have redefined employee expectations. Yvonne breaks down the difference between transactional and transformational leadership, discusses how organizations can use data as a compass for change, and reveals how real transformation goes beyond metrics—it requires courage, intentionality, and honest dialogue.

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr are joined by Hillary Sarrasin of 2020 Meida to talk about marketing your business and th importance of building awareness and customer service.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss the 2025 season of the Capital Classics theater troupe with founders Laura Sheehan and Geoff Sheehan.

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk aboiut Celebrate West Hartford with Event Director Linda Geisler and Presenting Sponsor Ryan Young of People's Bank

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talks about the upcoming season at the Bushnell theater with Alex Page-Hatley

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Barbara Foley and Nancy Woodward of the Ron Foley Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer about the symptoms of pancreatic cancer and what to look for to catch it early.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk about the West Hartford community with Mayor Shari Cantor including how West Hartford works, how it has changed, and her history with the town.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Dr. M. Stephen Miller of the New Britain Museum of Art about the exhibit of Shaker art furniture and the Shaker community.  

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss the upcoming Bench Art Installation around West Hartford and the history of the annual art installations.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss financialscams and identity theft with Andreas Kapetanopoulos, Connecticut Regional President and  Nicole Lent-Pollard, Fraud Risk Manager, for NBT Bank

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with West Hartford Rotary members Patrice Taffe, Victor Gonzalez, and Kyle Egress about the rotary's upcoming fundraiser, the causes West Hartford Rotary supports and the community impact of Rotary.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss romance scams with Andreas Kapetanopoulos, Connecticut Regional President and  Nicole Lent-Pollard, Fraud Risk Manager, for NBT Bank

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Rabbi Shaya Gopin about Hannukah, the mission of Chabad, and the Fire and Ice celebration.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr dioscuss fashion, cusotom clothing and creating an image with Bards Clothing founder Matt Banaver.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr interview BK & Co owners Barbara Karsky and Karen Herbert about thgeir store in West Hartford Center, virtual fashion shows and more..

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss the Best of West Hartford event.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Barbara Foley and Nancy Woodward of the Ron Foley Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Cathy Davis of  Bartlett Brainard about restoring homes, the long history of the firm, and home designs in West Hartford.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Eric Feeney about his non-profit Friends of Feeney and how they help families in need.

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Kristiann Vargas of Distinctive Ideas and Auer Farm about becoming a chef, creating a dining experience, the impact of community and farm-to-table dining.

On The Scene host Tom Hickey talks with Arthur Miller Dance Centers owner Kelly Stangel about how the studio pivoted during COVID and the entertainment they will be providing for the Best of West Hartford 10th anniversary.

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Bob Keiser of APK Charities. Named after Bob's son who died while serving in Iraq, APK Charities helps veterans in Connecticut with the struggles they have meeting everyday needs. 

On The Scene hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with DIabetes Coach David Oliver from Diabetes Plus With Dave.

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr speak with Leah Farrell and Kari Karp from the Noah Webster Library in West Hartford, CT about the wide range of resources available at the library and the upcoming Bookwyrm celebration of fantasy, role platying games, and more.

Tom Hickey and Bob Carr talk with Andreas Kapetanopoulos and Victor Gonzalez of NBT Bank about being active in the community and the future of community banking. 

Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss the upcoming 10th anniversary of the Best of West Hartford, the 25th anniversary of West Hartford Magazine and the 95th anniversary of the Connecticut Jewish Ledger.

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss the Capital Classics Shakespeare Summer Series at University of St. Joseph in West Hartford with  Geoff Sheehan and Laura Sheehan. 

Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss the psychology of cleaning with Kalita Dalley of WeHa Cleaning

The On The Scene team talk money, finance, and community with Bob Laraia of Northstar Wealth Partners.   

Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr discuss art in the community, art programs and the upcoming art show at the West Hartford Senior Center with Becky Sears and Andre Rochester.