Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Kelly Dussault to talk about the work of the Coös Coalition for Young Children and Families (CCYFC) and how it’s shaping the future of children and families across the North Country.CCYFC brings together partners across healthcare, education, family support, and community services to create a more coordinated system of care for children from birth through age eight. Through collaboration, shared strategy, and a focus on early support, the work centers on helping families access the right resources at the right time.Kelly shares her path into this work and offers a grounded look at what collaboration really looks like in practice. From developmental screening and early intervention to strengthening connections between providers, the conversation highlights how prevention and partnership directly impact long-term health outcomes.We also explore the realities families are facing today, the importance of aligning systems rather than working in silos, and how efforts like CCYFC help “connect the dots” so families are supported more seamlessly across services.This episode is a reminder that community health doesn’t start in a clinic. It starts with strong relationships, early support, and a shared commitment to helping every child and family thrive.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Kat Morris, Director of Development, and Briana Shannon, Director of Family Support at the Family Resource Center, for a conversation about prevention, partnership, and the role community organizations play in shaping long-term health. Together, Kat and Briana share how they found their way into this work and what drives their commitment to supporting families across the North Country. We explore what prevention looks like in practice, from building trust with families to connecting people with resources that strengthen stability, safety, and wellbeing. The conversation highlights how community-based support and healthcare are deeply interconnected, and why addressing challenges early can have a lasting impact on both individual outcomes and community health. We also discuss the importance of collaboration, the realities families are facing today, and the wide range of resources available through the Family Resource Center. This episode offers a powerful reminder that health begins long before someone walks into a clinic, and that prevention, relationships, and community support are essential to improving lives across the region.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Monique Hand, Director of Population Health Management at North Country Healthcare, to talk about the work happening behind the scenes to improve health outcomes across our communities.With nearly two decades at NCH, Monique shares her journey from Patient Access to Physician Practice Operations and now into Population Health, offering a unique perspective on how care is coordinated across the System. The conversation explores what Population Health really means in practice, how data, access, and care coordination come together, and why this work is essential in a rural healthcare setting.We also discuss the challenges and opportunities of improving outcomes while managing resources, the role of prevention and partnerships, and how teams across Affiliates work together to better support patients beyond individual visits.This episode offers a thoughtful look at the systems and strategies that help move healthcare upstream, focusing not just on treating illness, but on improving the overall health of the communities we serve.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Ashley LaRoche, RN, to talk about the realities of working in the Emergency Department and what it takes to care for patients in some of the most unpredictable moments of their lives.Ashley shares her journey in nursing, including her experience working in a Level I trauma center and how that shaped her approach to emergency care in a rural setting. The conversation explores the wide range of skills required of ER teams, from managing critical situations to anticipating patient needs and working seamlessly with providers.We also talk about how emergency departments determine patient priority, why certain cases are seen first, and the challenges of balancing high demand with compassionate care. Ashley offers insight into how telehealth supports rural emergency care and what patients can do to help improve their experience when seeking care.This episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the expertise, coordination, and adaptability required in emergency services, and the people who show up ready for anything, every single shift.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Nick Marois, Director of Facilities at Weeks Medical Center, to talk about the work that keeps a hospital running every single day.Nick began his career working hands-on as an electrician and maintenance mechanic before stepping into facilities leadership. In this conversation, he shares how that technical background shaped his approach to managing the complex systems that support patient care behind the scenes.From power and mechanical systems to safety infrastructure and daily operational demands, Nick walks us through the critical role facilities teams play in maintaining a safe and reliable healthcare environment. We also explore the challenges of prioritizing urgent work, leading skilled technical teams, and ensuring that hospitals are prepared to meet both routine needs and unexpected events.This episode shines a light on the often unseen work that keeps healthcare facilities operating safely and reliably for patients, staff, and communities.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, the tables are turned as the mic turns to host Ren Anderson, Director of Philanthropy & Community Relations at North Country Healthcare. Co-host Gavin Cook and producer Tyler Ruggles put Ren step into the hot seat to reflect on her path into rural healthcare, the work of building philanthropy and community engagement across a System, and what it means to lead in a way that is both strategic and deeply human. The conversation explores the realities of creating something new, balancing big-picture vision with day-to-day execution, and the role storytelling plays in connecting people to purpose. Ren also shares personal insights on leadership, identity, and the experiences that have shaped how she shows up in this work today. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the voice behind the podcast and the perspective driving many of the conversations featured throughout the series.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Dr. Mark Morgan, Chief Medical Officer at North Country Healthcare, to talk about leadership, medicine, and the evolving realities of rural healthcare.Dr. Morgan shares reflections from his career in clinical medicine and what it means to help guide medical strategy across a healthcare System serving communities throughout the North Country. The conversation explores the balance between patient care, physician leadership, and the operational realities that shape healthcare delivery today.We also discuss the importance of collaboration between clinicians and administration, the challenges facing rural hospitals, and the opportunities that come from building strong teams focused on quality, safety, and patient outcomes.This episode offers a thoughtful look at the role of physician leadership and the responsibility of stewarding healthcare in rural communities where access, relationships, and trust matter deeply.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Scarlett Moberly, Grants and Community Benefit Coordinator at North Country Healthcare, to talk about the work that connects healthcare systems to the communities they serve. Scarlett shares how grants and community benefit programs help support critical services, expand access to care, and strengthen partnerships across the North Country. From navigating complex funding opportunities to helping translate community needs into meaningful programs, her work sits at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and impact. We also discuss how rural healthcare organizations identify community priorities, the importance of collaboration with local partners, and the behind-the-scenes work that makes new initiatives possible. This episode offers a look at how thoughtful grant strategy and community engagement help ensure that healthcare systems remain responsive to the people and places they serve.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Tammy Berthiaume, MSN, RN, System Director of Emergency Services at North Country Healthcare, to talk about leadership in one of the most high-pressure areas of healthcare. With nearly three decades in emergency nursing and leadership at Androscoggin Valley Hospital, Tammy shares how emergency care has evolved over the years and what it takes to lead teams through both routine demands and unexpected crises. We explore the realities of rural emergency services, the balance between preparation and adaptability, and the importance of staying steady when the stakes are high. Tammy also reflects on lessons learned through COVID, what strong emergency department leadership looks like in practice, and why teamwork across departments is essential to delivering safe, responsive care. Whether you work in clinical care or support services, this episode offers insight into the discipline, resilience, and leadership required to keep emergency services strong across the System.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Steven Legge, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator and EMS Liaison at North Country Healthcare, to talk about what it really means to be ready. Steven shares how emergency management works behind the scenes across our hospitals and Affiliates, from disaster planning and training to coordination with EMS, public safety, and regional partners. We explore how preparedness in a rural healthcare System requires collaboration, adaptability, and strong relationships long before a crisis ever happens. The conversation highlights the quiet, steady work that ensures NCH can respond effectively to natural disasters, mass casualty incidents, and other critical events while keeping patient and staff safety at the forefront. Whether you’ve participated in a drill or simply wondered how emergency planning comes together, this episode offers a clearer look at the systems and people working every day to keep our communities safe. 

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Tom Mee, Chief Executive Officer of North Country Healthcare, following a series of Community Conversations held across the North Country. Tom reflects on what he heard directly from patients, partners, and community members, including themes around access, staffing, communication, and trust. The conversation explores what it means to listen as a healthcare leader, how feedback is processed at the System level, and how rural healthcare organizations balance community identity with operational realities.We also discuss what happens next. How does listening translate into action? How will staff see community feedback reflected in future decisions? And how does leadership stay grounded when navigating both praise and criticism? This episode offers an honest look at leadership, accountability, and the responsibility of stewarding healthcare in small communities where hospitals are deeply personal.Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about listening, resilience, and the path forward. #RuralRoots #NorthCountryHealthcare #Leadership #CommunityConversations #RuralHealthcare #OneTeamOneMission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Emily O’Neil, Executive Administrative Assistant supporting the CEO at North Country Healthcare, for a conversation about the work that keeps the organization connected and moving forward. Emily shares what it’s like to work at the center of system-level leadership, balancing organization, communication, and problem solving behind the scenes. We talk about how her role supports collaboration across teams, helps leadership stay aligned, and ensures that important work doesn’t fall through the cracks. The conversation also touches on the human side of administrative work, building trust, anticipating needs, and staying grounded in a fast-paced environment. Whether you’ve interacted with Emily directly or are simply curious about how administrative roles support the bigger picture, this episode offers a thoughtful look at a role that is essential to keeping the System running smoothly.

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Mason Walter, Environmental Services Manager at North Country Healthcare, to talk about the work that quite literally keeps our hospitals safe, clean, and ready for care. Mason shares his journey into Environmental Services leadership and what it takes to manage housekeeping operations in a healthcare setting. We explore how Environmental Services supports infection prevention, patient safety, and staff wellbeing, and why this work is far more complex and critical than most people realize.The conversation digs into teamwork, standards, and pride in doing the job right, especially in a rural healthcare environment where every role matters and resources must stretch further. Mason also talks about leading teams, responding to constant change, and what makes Environmental Services such a vital part of the care experience for patients and families. Whether you’ve worked alongside EVS for years or are just beginning to understand how much happens behind the scenes, this episode offers a new appreciation for the people who help make healing spaces possible every single day. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #leadership #healthcarestories #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission

In the first episode of Season 2 of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Cody Arsenault, Human Resources Business Partner at North Country Healthcare, for a thoughtful conversation about people, process, and what it really means to support teams behind the scenes. Cody shares his path into human resources, including his transition from systems and analytics into HR, and how that background shapes the way he approaches problem solving, efficiency, and employee support. We talk about what the HR Business Partner role looks like day to day, how HR partners with leaders and staff across the organization, and why curiosity and continuous learning matter in a field that touches every employee. With a shared background with Gavin in sports management, Cody and the hosts also explore how lessons from teamwork, strategy, and performance translate from the field into the workplace. The conversation highlights how strong systems, clear communication, and trust all play a role in building a healthy organization. Whether you interact with HR regularly or have never quite known who to call or why, this episode offers a clearer look at how HR supports people and helps keep the organization moving forward.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #human resources #hr #leadership #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission

In this special Season One recap of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we look back at some of our favorite moments from the first season of the podcast, stories that reminded us why this work, and these people, matter so much.From leadership reflections and career journeys to personal moments that shaped why people choose healthcare, this episode weaves together clips that capture the heart of North Country Healthcare. You’ll hear about work-life balance, growth at NCH, nontraditional paths into healthcare, and the quiet, human moments that connect us all.As we revisit voices from across the System, this recap celebrates the shared values, resilience, and sense of community that define care in the North Country.Whether you’ve listened to every episode or are just tuning in, this season in review is a reminder that behind every role is a story, and every story helps shape who we are.Tune in as we reflect, reconnect, and look ahead to what’s next on the road less travelled.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #seasonreview #leadership #healthcarestories #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission 

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Luellyn “Lu” Valtin, Director of Quality Performance Excellence at North Country Healthcare, for a thoughtful and refreshing conversation about what quality really means in healthcare. Lu shares her journey into quality work, what she has learned since joining NCH, and how Performance Excellence goes far beyond compliance and reporting. We talk about shifting the long-standing perception of “quality” as a box to check and instead explore how trust, communication, compassion, and collaboration form the real foundation of excellent care. From supporting Quality Managers across all affiliates to championing improvement efforts that make daily work easier for staff and safer for patients, Lu offers clear insight into how quality becomes meaningful, accessible, and lived, not just measured. Tune in for an honest and inspiring discussion about building a culture where improvement is part of who we are, where every role contributes to patient experience, and where quality is defined by the relationships we build and the care we deliver. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #quality #performanceexcellence #patientexperience #leadership #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Clare and Abby from the Performance Improvement team to talk about what meaningful improvement really looks like at North Country Healthcare. They share what Performance Improvement is (and is not), how it differs from traditional “quality work,” and why the PI lens is all about solving real problems, elevating teamwork, and removing barriers so staff can do their best work. We talk about the perception of “quality” as a box-checking task and how the Performance Excellence umbrella is reshaping that narrative across the System. Clare and Abby walk us through their approach to coaching teams, supporting Yellow Belt projects, and creating sustainable change that matters for patients, staff, and the efficiency of our daily workflows. They also reflect on their own paths into PI, their partnership, and what keeps them energized in a field that requires curiosity, patience, and a sense of humor. Tune in for an honest, down-to-earth conversation about improving the work, respecting the people who do it, and building a culture where progress feels possible. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #performanceimprovement #performanceexcellence #yellowbelt #leanthinking #nch #oneteamonemission #ruralhealthcare

In this special episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, the spotlight turns to our very own co-host, Gavin Cook, Recruitment Manager for North Country Healthcare. Gavin shares his path into Human Resources, what drew him to recruitment, and why connecting people to meaningful work in healthcare is one of his greatest joys. We talk about the stories he’s heard through this podcast, how the series has changed the way he sees the organization, and what he believes makes NCH such a unique place to build a career.From workforce trends in rural healthcare to the importance of culture, connection, and storytelling, Gavin offers an inside look at the people-first philosophy that guides his work. You’ll also hear a few behind-the-scenes reflections about what it’s really like to co-host Rural Roots and what he’s learned along the way. Tune in for a warm and insightful conversation with the voice you’ve come to know each week... This time sitting on the other side of the questions! #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #recruitment #leadership #oneteamonemission #ruralhealthcare 

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Tiffany Haynes, MSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer at North Country Healthcare, for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about leadership, compassion, and the power of nursing in rural healthcare.Tiffany shares her journey from hospice and palliative care to executive leadership, reflecting on what she’s learned about guiding teams through both challenge and change. We talk about what it means to lead with empathy, how nursing shapes the culture of care across NCH, and why staying connected to the bedside matters at every level of leadership.From her roots in the North Country to her vision for the future of nursing, Tiffany’s story is one of heart, resilience, and service.Tune in for a thoughtful discussion about purpose, teamwork, and what it means to care—for patients, for colleagues, and for a community.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #nursingleadership #chiefnursingofficer #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission #leadership 

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Olivia Harris, Benefits Specialist at North Country Healthcare, for a timely and informative conversation about employee benefits, open enrollment, and how to make the most of the resources available to staff.Olivia walks us through what to expect during annual enrollment, shares helpful tips for reviewing coverage options, and offers insight into how benefits support overall well-being throughout the year. We also talk about her role behind the scenes in Human Resources, what she enjoys most about working with staff across the System, and how she helps make a complex topic easier to understand.Whether you’re new to NCH or a long-time employee, this episode will help you feel more confident and prepared heading into open enrollment.Tune in for a practical and friendly conversation that reminds us that taking care of ourselves helps us take better care of others.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #humanresources #benefits #employeeexperience #oneteamonemission #ruralhealthcare

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Brooke Belanger, In-House Counsel for North Country Healthcare, for a candid and engaging conversation about law, leadership, and the human side of healthcare compliance.Brooke shares her journey from public defense to healthcare law and how her experiences across state policy, Medicaid development, and hospital compliance shaped her approach to legal counsel. We talk about what it means to make complex systems understandable, the importance of clarity and communication in healthcare policy, and how thoughtful leadership helps teams make confident, ethical decisions.Through humor, insight, and deep commitment to community well-being, Brooke reminds us that doing things “by the book” can also be done with heart.Tune in for a refreshing conversation about trust, transparency, and what it means to serve with integrity in rural healthcare.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #leadership #healthcarelaw #compliance #oneteamonemission #ruralhealthcare

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Andrea Tupick, Director of Inpatient Services at North Country Healthcare, to talk about leadership, teamwork, and the fast-paced world of inpatient care. Andrea shares her journey into nursing leadership and what it takes to oversee a department that never slows down. We discuss the importance of communication, teamwork, and trust in delivering high-quality care, along with what she’s learned about supporting both patients and staff in a constantly changing environment. Whether you’re on the floor, behind the scenes, or simply curious about what happens within inpatient care, this episode offers an inside look at how strong leadership, compassion, and collaboration shape every patient experience. Tune in for a grounded and inspiring conversation about nursing, leadership, and the heart of hospital care. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #nursingleadership #inpatientcare #hospitalleadership #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Wayne Couture, Director of Imaging Services at North Country Healthcare, to take a closer look at the vital role diagnostic imaging plays in patient care. Wayne shares his journey into healthcare leadership and what it means to oversee imaging departments across the System. We talk about the technology that makes modern diagnostics possible, the teamwork behind delivering results quickly and accurately, and how imaging supports nearly every other area of care. From X-rays to advanced scans, Wayne offers insight into the challenges and opportunities of leading imaging services in a rural setting, and what excites him most about the future. Whether you’re a clinician, a support staff member, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes work that makes diagnosis and treatment possible, this episode sheds light on a critical piece of the care journey. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about technology, collaboration, and keeping patients at the center. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #imaging #diagnostics #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Danielle Roy, Clinical Supervisor for Cardiopulmonary, Sleep, Respiratory, Neurology, and Cardiology Services at North Country Healthcare. Danielle shares her journey into clinical leadership and what it means to oversee such a wide range of specialties. We dive into the Ambulatory EEG project, what it is, why it matters, and how it’s changing the patient experience. She also reflects on the challenges and rewards of working across highly technical fields, the importance of collaboration between departments, and the pride she takes in leading her team. Whether you’re curious about the latest innovations or simply want to understand more about the people behind the care, this episode offers a fascinating look into the world of cardiopulmonary and neurology services in rural healthcare. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about teamwork, innovation, and what the future holds.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #cardiology #respiratorycare #neurology #innovation #oneteamonemission #ruralhealthcare

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Jesse Raimer, System Director of Materials Management at North Country Healthcare, to explore the critical but often invisible work that keeps our hospitals and affiliates running.Jesse shares his career journey and what it means to oversee everything from supply chains to everyday essentials across a rural healthcare system. We talk about the challenges of ensuring resources are where they need to be, how his team collaborates with clinical staff, and why Materials Management is more than just moving boxes—it’s about making patient care possible.Whether you work in a clinical department or support role, this episode sheds light on the behind-the-scenes systems that impact every patient interaction.Tune in for a practical and eye-opening conversation about teamwork, logistics, and the people who make care possible long before a patient walks through the door.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #materialsmanagement #supplychain #healthcarelogistics #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Tom Mee, Chief Executive Officer of North Country Healthcare, for a candid conversation about leadership, vision, and navigating the complexities of rural healthcare. Tom reflects on his journey from bedside nurse to system CEO, and how those experiences shape the way he leads today. We talk about the importance of trust, transparency, and collaboration across affiliates, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing rural health systems in today’s changing environment. As NCH looks ahead to a new fiscal year, Tom shares what he sees on the horizon and what it means to keep staff and patients at the center of every decision. Whether you’re on the front lines, in a support role, or simply curious about what it takes to lead a complex healthcare system, this episode offers an inside look at leadership in action. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about resilience, vision, and staying true to mission in rural healthcare. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #leadership #ruralhealthcare #oneteamonemission #tommee

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Evelyn Robbenolt-Jones, who leads Behavioral Health at North Country Healthcare, for a candid conversation about mental health, substance use, and the unique challenges and opportunities of providing care in rural communities. Evelyn shares what first drew her to this work, how behavioral health and substance use disorder intersect, and what she wishes more people understood about the realities of behavioral health services. We talk about stigma, access to care, and the role that every staff member—clinical or not—can play in supporting patients and colleagues. Whether you’re on the frontlines of patient care or working behind the scenes, this episode offers important insight into how behavioral health touches every part of what we do. Tune in for a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about resilience, connection, and hope. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #behavioralhealth #mentalhealth #substanceusedisorder #oneteamonemission #ruralhealthcare

Episode 10: In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Julie Bolton, System Infection Prevention RN and Emergency Room RN at Weeks Medical Center and UCVH, to explore the vital but often misunderstood world of infection prevention. Julie shares what a day in her role really looks like, how she supports staff across the System, and why infection control is about so much more than policies and protocols. We talk about her dual perspective working both in prevention and on the frontlines of the ER, the biggest challenges in keeping patients and staff safe, and the small actions that make the biggest difference. Whether you’ve ever wondered “What does infection control actually do?” or simply want a clearer view of the teamwork behind patient safety, this episode sheds light on a role that impacts every corner of healthcare. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about prevention, resilience, and why the details matter. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #infectionprevention #nursing #patientsafety #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Greg Cook, President and CEO of Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital, for a candid conversation about leadership, community, and what it takes to guide a critical access hospital in the North Country. Greg reflects on his career journey, from pharmacy services to operations and supply chain, and how those experiences shape his approach to leading UCVH as he nears his two-year anniversary. We talk about building strong teams, collaborating across the NCH System, and meeting the evolving needs of patients and families in a rural setting. Whether you are on the front line, part of an operational team, or simply curious about how a community hospital thrives, this episode offers a practical look at purpose-driven leadership in rural healthcare. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about strategy, relationships, and staying grounded in mission. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #ucvh #gregcook #ruralhealthcare #leadership #communityhospital #oneteamonemission

Darrell description for 8/27 upload: In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Darrell Bodnar, Chief Information Officer at North Country Healthcare, for a behind-the-scenes look at the technology, innovation, and strategy that keep healthcare moving forward in the North Country.Darrell shares his journey into healthcare IT leadership, what it takes to manage complex systems across multiple hospitals and affiliates, and how his team works to ensure that technology truly serves the needs of patients and staff. We explore the balance between security and accessibility, the challenges of keeping up with rapid change, and the role technology plays in advancing our mission.Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a healthcare professional, or just curious about what goes into running the systems that support care, this episode offers a thoughtful and practical perspective on leading technology in rural healthcare.Tune in for an engaging conversation about vision, adaptability, and how the right tools can empower the right people to do their best work.#ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #healthcareIT #CIO #oneteamonemission #technologyinhealthcare #innovation #ruralhealthcare

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Nicole Gross, Philanthropy Coordinator at North Country Healthcare, for an energetic and inspiring conversation about joining a new organization, jumping into big projects, and finding your place in the community. Nicole shares what it’s been like in her first nine months at NCH. From coordinating events and donor communications to leading her first Yellow Belt project. We talk about the learning curve, the surprises along the way, and how she’s approaching her role with curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference. Whether you’re new to NCH, a long-time team member, or simply curious about the people who keep our community connected, this episode offers a candid look at the fresh perspective and momentum a new team member can bring.Tune in for a fun and thoughtful conversation about growth, collaboration, and saying “yes” to new opportunities. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #nch #philanthropy #donorevents #yellowbelt #oneteamonemission #community 

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Mike Peterson, President and CEO of Androscoggin Valley Hospital, for an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, community, and what it means to guide a rural hospital in today’s ever-changing healthcare landscape. Mike shares his journey into healthcare leadership, his approach to building trust and transparency across teams, and how AVH is working to meet the evolving needs of its community. We talk about collaboration across the System, staying grounded in mission, and how strong leadership creates space for others to thrive. Whether you’re a front-line team member, seasoned leader, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes at your local hospital, this episode offers valuable perspective on what it really means to lead with purpose in rural healthcare. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about vision, teamwork, and the power of listening. #ruralroots #northcountryhealthcare #AVH #leadershipinhealthcare #mikepeterson #communityhospital #ruralhealthcare #nch #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Bernie Adams, Chief Quality Officer at North Country Healthcare, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to deliver safe, reliable, and patient-centered care across a rural health system. Bernie shares his journey into healthcare quality and why process improvement and teamwork are essential to both patient outcomes and staff experience. We talk about what “quality” really means beyond metrics, how teams across affiliates are raising the bar every day, and how a culture of learning drives better care for the communities we serve. This conversation is packed with insight about continuous improvement, collaboration, and the future of quality in healthcare. It’s a powerful reminder that every department, every role, and every process has an impact on the patient journey.  Tune in to hear how quality work at NCH goes far beyond checklists and dashboards: it’s about people, connection, and always striving to do better for those we serve. #ruralhealthcare #northcountryhealthcare #nch #qualityimprovement #patientcare #leadership #oneteamonemission

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled, we sit down with Tonya St. Cyr, Director of Human Resources at North Country Healthcare, for a candid conversation about what it means to lead people-first work across a rural health system.Tonya shares her journey into healthcare HR, the importance of building a unified culture across affiliates, and how the One Team, One Mission philosophy is shaping the way we support and engage staff at every level.We also discuss North Country Healthcare’s new designation as a Recovery Friendly Workplace, and what that means for employees, leadership, and the broader community.This episode is packed with heart, perspective, and practical insight into what it takes to foster a resilient, inclusive, and mission-aligned workforce.🎧 Tune in to hear how HR is helping to strengthen connection, build trust, and support the people who power NCH every day.#ruralhealthcare #northcountryhealthcare #nch #humanresources #oneteamonemission #recoveryfriendlyworkplace #employeeengagement #workplaceculture

In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Locke, longtime home health nurse and leader at North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency, to explore what it really means to deliver care across the backroads and small towns of northern New Hampshire. Jessica shares stories from the field, reflects on the deeply personal relationships built through home care, and offers an inside look at the unique challenges and quiet joys of nursing in a rural setting. From gravel roads to patient breakthroughs, this conversation reminds us how powerful it is to meet people exactly where they are. Hosted by Ren Anderson and Gavin Cook, Rural Roots: A Road Less Travelled is North Country Healthcare’s weekly podcast that brings you real stories from the heart of rural healthcare. Subscribe and follow for more conversations with the people who care for our communities, one story at a time. #ruralhealthcare #homehealth #northcountryhealthcare #nch #nchgiving #communitycare #nursingstories #ruralroots

In this episode of Rural Roots: A Road Less Traveled, Gavin and Ren discuss the shows conception and how it all came to be. They jump into their backgrounds and roles within NCH and the future of the show. Discussion involving the backbone of NCH and the direct links to the community, as well as a teaser for next weeks first FULL episode with special guest, Jessica Foster, Interim President of North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency!

In this teaser short, Gavin and Ren introduce the Concept of Rural Roots: A Road Less Traveled, a pdocast presented by North Country Healthcare