The John Krol Podcast

Author Dan Valenti joins Cara & John Krol on The Blend Podcast to discuss a true labor of love and a book that is the result of work and interviews that spanned nearly four decades. The book reveals previously untold details of how iconic characters in Kubrick's masterpiece Full Metal Jacket were chosen and molded through the eyes of the actors who portrayed the epic roles. UNVEILING THE TRUTH BEHIND AN ICONIC FILM-Step behind the curtain of one of cinema's most unforgettable films and performances.In Stanley Kubrick's Full Mental Straight Jacket, author Dan Valenti takes readers on an unprecedented journey into the making of a masterpiece. This revelatory work explores the genius, methods, and controversial practices that haveelevated Stanley Kubrick to legendary status among film directors.THE UNTOLD STORY For decades, the full story of this film, notably the creation of Gunnery Sergeant Hartmann—one of cinema's most compelling, blistering, and quoted characters—remained shrouded in mystery. Until now.Drawing from exclusive interviews conducted over two years with actor Lee Ermey (Hartman) shortly after Full Metal Jacket was released, Valenti delivers insightsthat only a trusted confidant could access. From 2022 to 2024, Valenti also conducted over a dozen in-depth interviews with the film's supporting cast—including Tim Colceri, Kubrick's original choice for Hartman. The unsparing probe uncovers the exhilarating but nightmarish realities of working in "Kubrick country.”FROM THE AUTHOR WHO KNEW THE TRUTH As the collaborator on a novel screenplay project with Ermey himself, Valenti gained unprecedented access to fresh insights about Kubrick and the film that have never before been shared with the public. For film historians, Kubrick enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the dark corners of filmmaking, this book provides the definitive account of how one of cinema's most memorable characters came to life—and the personal cost.Dan is an author whose books have made him a “six-decade man” — his titles have been published in the 1970s (1979), '80s, '90s, '00s, tens (2010, 11), and 20s. He has written 25 books and edited eight more. His works have been widely quoted, cited, and anthologized. He has also written for the stage and for films.

It is an incredible challenge navigating the world of finances and services as our loved ones age. Deb Allen is one of the very best in the business in helping families manage through the challenges to understand how to provide the very best services for our aging parents, grandparents, other family, friends and loved ones. A registered nurse case manager, Deb is the admissions director of Mount Carmel Care Center, and has more than two decades working in all levels of care, including elder law. We encourage you to join the conversation during the live show to ask questions and share your own stories.Mount Carmel Care Center, Inc. is a member of the Carmelite System, exclusively comprised of nursing and rehabilitation, independent living and assisted living facilities that span the Northeast and the Midwest, as well as a facility in Dublin, Ireland.The Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm is a Congregation founded in New York City by Mother Mary Angeline Teresa McCrory and six companions on September 3, 1929. Mother Angeline recognized a great and growing need to provide care and comfort for the aging and infirm population in the United States. Acting in faith and with the assistance of Patrick Cardinal Hayes of New York, Mother Angeline made her vision a reality by establishing a new Congregation dedicated exclusively to the care and services of the elderly in the American tradition. In 1999, the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm formed a non-profit corporation known as The Carmelite System, Inc. in order to perpetuate the healing ministry of Christ in long-term health care. The Congregation also sponsors the Avila Institute of Gerontology, which provides ongoing education and study in the field of aging services.Links: Mount Carmel Care CenterCara Krol, Balance & Bliss Wellness#medicare #longtermcare #shorttermrehab #understandingmedicare #seniorcare #financingseniorcare

The inspiration for The Enchanted Altar was born from a myriad of muses. Learn more about the journey when you take an in-person workshop or online class. The vibe is simple… creating and offering quality products and experiences for quality people who are looking to explore and evolve themselves.The Enchanted Altar is meant to empower and enhance the strength, beauty, and magic that already exists within you. Bringing the sacred lifestyle back to its roots… literally and figuratively through metaphysical products and experiences for the modern-day individual, fusing ancient wisdom with a new-age twist that helps bring your true self out of the shadows. Sharing and supporting Fair Trade, Female Owned, and BIPOC Businesses through awareness and education.A goal of The Enchanted Altar to source products near and far that are free from toxins + cruelty, work with suppliers that treat the materials with respect and honor, while inspiring organic, nature illuminated, peaceful living.Nicole Irene is the owner of Enchanted Altar, as well as an artist and licensed teacher. She joins Cara & John Krol on the Blend Podcast to share the story of her venture, her passion for her work and this community. Cara Krol is a life transition coach, Reiki Master, author, licensed teacher and owner of Balance & Bliss Wellness.John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media and has hosted and produced radio, television and podcast series' for more than two decades.

Shay Barnes is the owner of Hiking Hounds, a unique dog walking and hiking business, where she aims to connect with exceptional dog friends to share hiking experiences, promoting physical fitness and enjoyment. Their services are primarily concentrated in the Richmond area, with the flexibility to accommodate West Pittsfield and West Stockbridge, supplemented by pickup options if needed Shay started getting the bug when she was looking for somebody to let her dog out and was having a hard time, so she thought maybe she'll just do it herself!Cara Krol is a life transition coach, Reiki Master, author, licensed teacher and owner of Balance & Bliss Wellness. John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media, and has hosted and produced radio, television and podcast series' for more than two decades.

Making national news a couple decades ago, and being labeled the "baseball billionaire" is a legacy that many will remember former major leaguer Matt White for. But, it's the rest of the story that's even more intriguing and inspiring. Hitting rock bottom, going through bankruptcy, and being forced to sell the quarry that made him world-known, Matt has made a comeback inspired by his faith and family. Matt shares his story with Cara and John with raw honesty and humility. He has the quarry back through seemingly divine intervention, has a wonderful partner in his wife, Andrea, who are raising their young daughter in the Berkshires. We hope you enjoy our conversation with Matt White. Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. Matt White's links: website: https://mwbbillionaire.webflow.io/ Swift River Stone: https://www.swiftriverstone.com/

We welcome Jerrid Burdick - the founder of the Berkshire Wedding Expo. The Expo is January 25 & 26 at the Stationary Factory in Dalton, Mass. Register by logging onto theberkshireweddingexpo.com. Win over $12,000 in wedding service giveaways. Additional cash prizes of $1000 toward your wedding, plus $500 toward any event.The Berkshire Wedding Expo represents OVER 130 Berkshire County wedding professionals who are all eager to help you make your wedding day one of the most amazing days in your life! Some of our professionals have been in business for MANY years and others are still gaining experience but offer unbelievable talents and ideas!

Nadia Milleron is a powerful independent voice who has earned hard fought wins in Washington and elsewhere holding Boeing accountable after her daughter Samya was killed in one of the tragic crashes of the Boeing 737. She is now running as an underdog to the powerful Richard Neal, the epitome of the political establishment in western Massachusetts and DC. Recently bolstered by a ⁠powerful piece in the New York Times⁠, Nadia's campaign has been inspiring people across the district, and hell, maybe she has a puncher's chance in this David vs. Goliath contest. Nadia challenges Neal on his lack of accessibility to the district, his campaign finance practices and how he spends his campaign money, not following through on securing social security reform, not holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for price gouging and more. Nadia is focused on making change that will bring more badly needed physicians to Western Massachusetts communities, addressing runaway grocery and gas prices from greed-flation and spending more tax dollars in our nation, rather than on international excursions. It is an epic tale of a mother fighting for change so no other family has to face the tragedies brought upon by defective Boeing planes. Featured recently in an brilliant piece in the New York Times, Nadia is an inspiration and has shown unending tenacity to hold Boeing accountable in seeking justice. In 2019, Nadia's daughter was a passenger on a Boeing 737 MAX that crashed in Ethiopia killing all on board. After 2 deadly crashes, instead of taking Boeing's and the FAA's word that nothing was wrong and a crash would not happen again, Nadia got involved to hold all involved groups accountable. Nadia went to Washington and helped lead the unanimous passage of the national bi-partisan Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act in 2020 which directed US aircraft and aerospace industry manufacturers to adopt, enforce, and regulate compliance procedures to ensure planes met the proper criteria and specifications before they are commissioned for use. She didn't stop there. Nadia then went to Boeing's home in Illinois and spearheaded the overthrow of a state law that protected big corporations over victims. Nadia met with legislators and stakeholders to fix a flawed law that allowed negligent and reckless corporations to get away with murder and not be held responsible. Nadia has never shied away from standing up for everyday people. She began her career practicing law helping children who were facing neglect and abuse. For 5 years, she took cases from the bench and advocated on the child's behalf in cases of contested divorces, lack of child support, or crime. She also represented people in the state mental hospital in probate court proceedings. As a pro bono volunteer attorney, she worked with patients who had been subjected to dehumanizing conditions and a legal system that was violating their rights. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Health New England Medicare Plan Specialist Lee Jaggi joins us to cover all the basics of Medicare, as those eligible head into open enrollment October 15 to December 7. He covers the difference between Medicare Part A & B, penalties for not signing up for Medicare in some circumstances, fewer private providers in the Berkshires and Western Mass for Medicare products, meaning a number of people will need to switch providers, Medicare Advantage Plans, supplemental plans and more. Lee also covers Point32Health's acquisition of Health New England and HNE's commitment to the community, his incredible involvement in the community, including the amazing cornhole program in all the Berkshire senior centers that Lee spearheaded with the support of Health New England and more! Lee can be reached at 413-233-3341 and email at rjaggi@hne.com. There are a number of upcoming Medicare meetings in Western Mass and in the Berkshires, click on this link: https://www.healthnewengland.org/medicare/session#!/ to get a complete list! **Lee Jaggi is a Licensed Medicare Plan Specialist for Health New England. Lee joined Health New England in 2012, and is the dedicated Medicare representative in Berkshire County. Cara Krol is a holistic energy healer and certified life coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com Cara is also the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Sufani Garza joins The Blend with Cara & John Krol for a conversation on her journey into the healing arts, finding Reiki as a way to find peace from stress and her migraine headaches, her journey from student to trainer - with nearly 60,000 enrollments worldwide through her online courses on Udemy. Sufani Garza is the Director and Founder of Place of Bliss Academy. She's a practitioner in many healing therapies such as Alternative Healing, Reiki, Channeling, Spiritual Counseling, Soul Care Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Shamanism, Guided Image Therapy and many more esoteric practices in cultural studies. She has owned place of Bliss Academy & Sanctuary for over twenty years teaching live classes, trainings and certifications, and in 2020 converted to the online platform called UDEMY, to reach a global audience. Since that time, she has published over 50 courses, gained over 36K students, with over 59K enrollments, is in 172 countries and 46 languages. She has over 10K reviews ranging on average from 4.7-4.8. Her unique style of teaching is the shamans way, teaching through storytelling and sharing. Her courses range from Alternative healing, counseling and psychology, writing, marketing, channeling, vodou, witchcraft, meditation, self-love, emotional intelligence, communication, and more. She is also a published author. In her publishing career, she has been published both traditionally through Austin Macauley Publisher and has self-published many titles. She was a columnist for The Reiki Times (IARP, Dear Reiki) and has been published in many magazines over the years on the topics of healing. She is an avid Horror reader and has published a horror/Thriller series called 1377 Rikoppe Lane, with book 1 & 2 written, and book 3 is on the way! She blends healing and horror in her own prolific style in every single book. She publishes under Sufani Weisman-Garza. She has three grown children, a husband of 20 years, and is the guardian of two adorable cats. Links: Udemy page: www.udemy.com/user/sufani-garza/ Website: https://www.placeofblissacademy.com/ Cara Krol's Balance & Bliss Wellness website: balanceandblisswellness.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It has been a passion of hers since she was a just a little girl, providing exceptional care for the most vulnerable. Also, she was raised well by her mother who was a nurse, as Renee is today. Starting as a certified nursing assistant, then becoming an LPN and then a registered nurse (RN), Renee brings a certain perspective and an innovative approach to leading her private pay home care agency, Whole Heart Homecare. In fact, in an effort to build a strong foundation and reputation in the community, she pays her caregivers more than most agencies. The hourly rate is also a bit lower than many other agencies. What this means is that she earns a lower profit margin per patient/client as the business owner. But, for Renee, it's worth it to make sure she has the best people working and becoming loyal to her agency, believing this will lead to the highest level of care for patients- which is the most important goal. In this episode, we cover Renee's professional evolution, decision to start an agency, being a young entrepreneur, her philosophy on providing great care, growing her business slowly and with intention, and more. We hope you enjoy John and Cara's conversation with Renee Saville, owner of Whole Heart Homecare. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Persevering against all odds, and transforming through the experience is the stuff of inspiration, and makes for great stories to tell. It's the premise behind Deserts to Mountaintops, which chronicles the journey of extraordinary women overcoming monumental challenges. It's the creation of Jessica Buchanan, the woman who made headlines worldwide for her strength and tenacity, surviving a kidnapping by gunpoint by Somali pirates, being held for ransom for 93 days, forced to live outside in deplorable conditions, starved and terrorized, she was finally saved by SEAL Team VI in early 2012. After telling her own story in a book, she moved on to creating a platform to tell the stories of other women. Audrey Casey-Herrick and Wendy Casey (sisters) and their aunt Mary Casey-Bowers wrote their own story in the first volume of the series. Stacia Bissell's life was transformed on a fateful day when she flipped from her bicycle and woke up hours later in her bed, asking countless times why there was a cast on her arm. The journey has been long and winding, and has ultimately led Stacia to step forward in her greater purpose to inspire and enlighten the world through her own story. About Audrey Casey-Herrick and Wendy Casey and their aunt Mary Casey-Bowers (The Mystic Chics): We are modern day medicine women who bring a unique blend of solace and empowerment to any event with their energy healing, music, movement, and sacred ceremony. Whether it is 3 minutes or 3 hours, these intuitive women will help you feel into your own body and energy field to clear blocks and activate your true power. About Stacia Bissell After her world was turned upside down, she learned to navigate a new way of making strides in healing. With encouragement from her medical team, the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIA-MA), friends and family, she began doing speaking engagements to various audiences on the topic of brain injury. In addition to co-authoring Deserts to Mountaintops; Choosing our Healing through Radical Self-Acceptance, she is a contributor to Brain Injury HOPE magazine, a member of the Brain Injury Association of America's Brain Injury Advisory Council, council member for the Brain InInjury Alliance of Vermont, a program leader for LoveYourBrain, and a member of the BIA-USA speaker's bureau. Stacia co-founded the BIA-MA Northampton Brain Injury Support Group and the Berkshire Brain Injury Collaborative, designed to provide professional development to teachers on return-to-learn strategies after a student suffers from a concussion. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

This episode ranges the full blend, dating, the challenge of aging parents and grandparents, the loneliness of caregivers, getting the heave-ho from your friend group once you have kids, the revival of live music in venues throughout the region, Andrew's dream job at MTV back in the late eighties and early nineties working with Kurt Loder, and the likes of the Backstreet Boys, the Real World and more. Andrew is a lover of life and we love him! Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: ⁠https://www.fairyslippers.info/books⁠In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is ⁠https://balanceandblisswellness.com⁠John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: ⁠https://oneeightymedia.com/⁠a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Everything from the media landscape in a small New England county, death by chocolate specialty bread to thinking more broadly as to who is a leader. Here is the audio-only version of a wide ranging conversation generated from the original live show. If you know anything about shocking a river or a lake to manage fish, don't touch that water while it's happening - Mike learned that lesson at a very young age. His days beside his father in the wilderness set the stage for a successful wildlife photography side gig that has gotten him published countless times. His show has been a catalyst for raising awareness and pushing change in the community - badly needed in a day when traditional media have consolidated so severely and the tolerance for opposing opinions and views has become virtually non-existent. Always fun to catch up with Mike! Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Support The Blend Podcast with Buy Me a Coffee. Andrew & Rachael founded RopaNa Wellness seven years ago driven by Rachael's health issues that traditional Western medicine, one pharmaceutical after another, could not address. In fact, she worked at a hospital and, suffered from severe pain, insomnia and other symptoms that made life almost unbearable. Hemp was the solution that changed her life, and their journey began to help countless others find similar, life-changing, results. RopaNa comes from the ancient Sanskrit language meaning “to heal oneself”. Our philosophy is built on the need for knowledge, quality and transparency in the CBD Hemp Industry. We are here to bring you the absolute finest Vermont CBD products at compassionate prices including THC- Free and Full Spectrum options. We care about the environment as much as we do our wellness because the environment is responsible for the wellness of everyone. Our business practices reflect this by minimizing packaging and utilizing solar power. We make the commitment to use recycled, biodegradable or re-useable materials and use all natural, non toxic cleaning products in our facility. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Cara and John go back on their original messages on Facebook when their relationship began in the middle of the COVID lockdown, Tinder is still the "gold standard" of dating apps - says Marc - even if no one wants to admit it, Cara shares a date gone all wrong in her short stint in adventures of online dating. Marc shares anecdotes on a boudoir shoot that has still never happened after five years, his work in editorial including a shoot being picked up by Playboy.com. We also learn about how you always need someone to be ready to deliver the "emergency" call if the first date from an online dating app becomes a train wreck! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Water is everything. It touches every bit of our lives and our communities, in our physical and mental health, recreation and our economy. Leslie Gabriel's connection with water became clear at a very young age and then evolved over time, ever reimagining the relationship at every turn. His professional life led him to water, creating a successful business with water testing and filtration systems. Today, he wants our region to celebrate and maximize the potential of water as an asset for residents and tourists, alike. The concept of "blue spaces" which has been successfully implemented in many other communities across the country, has immense potential for health benefits, recreational opportunities, tourist attractions. In this episode we also cover the healing properties of water, Leslie's work in the water industry, why the bottled water industry is a bit of a "scam," the hospitality industry's push for toxic-free waterways, Leslie's podcast And So It Flows, and much more. --------- Leslie is an H2O activist, author, content producer, event producer, podcaster, water enthusiast, marketing maven, ambassador for water and public speaker about the pressing need of water sustainability and the need to transform our relationship to water to a state of love and respect. After beating lifelong chronic skin rashes and other ailments, by simply using pure water to detox my body and mind, I am a passionate believer in the power of water. A majority of my time is spent on what he considers the most important movement of modern times, The Water Sustainability Movement. Leslie Gabriel is also proud father of, who he calls, his "Not So Little People" - Kyla Elianna Gabriel (29) and Jeremiah Noah Gabriel (25). I am also a distance runner, hiker, skier, kayaker, camper, traveler and dancer. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Cara and John roll-out their online sales training program and philosophy behind it, what happens with the diamond engagement ring when a married couple splits (they have experience), ways that small businesses can expand their markets by using online tools. John and Cara have a solution for that, and we look forward to demystifying it and helping people begin an exciting new journey in online sales. Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is a consultant, digital marketing expert and the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Dorothy's Estaminet is the new hotspot in the downtown, drawing off the tradition of the former Mission Bar & Tapas and the living room of the region, Dottie's Coffee Lounge. Jess Rufo explains the concept of the "estaminet" which is a place for adult beverages but has a bit of a "shabby" fun vibe. That's perfect, and it's already become a hub for incredible live music, residencies with the likes of Gina Coleman and Misty Blues. Jess covers her own growth and change since the early days of starting Dottie's, and how that has impacted her management style. It's an open, honest, authentic conversation about family, life and running a business based on your passion. Cara Krol is the wonderful author of the book, Fairy Slippers and the sequel, Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach, and owner of Balance & Bliss Wellness, located in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency, with expertise in building websites with top-notch SEO, digital marketing and online sales, branding, design and strategic marketing consulting. https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It's a seismic shift that has the potential to fundamentally change the way we approach not only pediatric dental care, but total health for our children. Airway-centric dentistry focuses on the root causes and can address the underlying issues that lead to sleep apnea, snoring, sleep deprivation, and yes, cavities and tooth decay. Driven first by her intuition as a mother to children with chronic health issues, Dr. Lauren Ballinger, who is a board-certified pediatric dentist, was not satisfied by the traditional Western medicine options of addressing the symptoms. She knew there was a better way, and there was no going back. Dr. Lauren experienced what she describes as her "breakthrough," leaving her family's practice to take a great leap on a new venture: Good To Grow Airway Pediatric Dentistry. The approach is leading to excellent health outcomes for patients and she hopes the health and dental establishment will take the steps to support the growth of airway-centric dentistry within the dental community. In this episode we also cover: the fundamentals of the airway approach compared to the a symptom-based (tooth-focused) approach, the importance of breathing through the nose rather than the mouth, the importance for deep sleep for children and brain growth, the concept of increasing the boney border of an airway, the American Dental Association (ADA) gradually warming up to airway-centered dentistry, Dr. Lauren essentially reinventing her career at a time when many are considering their path to retirement, relearning from Native American traditions from the 18th century to improve airway health for children, and following her mission to truly help people the best way she knows how. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Lauren Ballinger, DDS, CSOM (certified specialist in orafacial myology).  Book references in this interview: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor Shut Your Mouth and Save Your Life by George Catlin Dr. Lauren Ballinger is a Board Certified pediatric dentist who, after 15 years at her family's traditional pediatric dental practice, left to open her own practice to help prevent children's suffering - before it happens. Good to Grow Airway Centric Pediatric Dentistry and Frenectomy Center is a sanctuary for families everywhere. Good to Grow is completely devoted to proper airway and dental wellness, the prevention of disease, and true collaborative care amongst the childrens' doctors and family. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It's simply harder and more expensive to do business in Massachusetts, and that's one of the main reasons George Shoemaker is now moving his entire operation to Sarasota, Florida. Currency Coffee originated in Dalton Massachusetts with the nod to town's Crane Paper currency-making fame. In spite of success in distributing to a wide array of businesses and restaurants, and more recently, a hugely success cafe in the lower level of the Allendale Shopping Center - George has decided to leave for sunnier skies. We unpack the decision and the future of his business. We also answer a viewer question about the challenge of co-parenting when one parent refuses to contribute to activities for the kiddos, as well as some remarkable co-parents who get along remarkably well (rare)! Also, while everyone is talking about Taylor Swift and the Super Bowl, there is a second tier celebrity couple for the big game with a local connection: Former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo (of the Pittsfield Culpo family) is engaged to SF 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. We'll assume Olivia will be at the big game on the other side of the Swifties. Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It's been 63 years since Larry Kratka first spoke into a live mic at a radio station, and he's still going strong today. Larry's love of radio took him well beyond his day job as a newsman and anchor with WUPE-FM and the Berkshire News Network, among other stations, as he was the driving force in saving community radio in Pittsfield. His initiative to revitalize WTBR saved the station from an imminent departure from the community, and galvanized a new generation of students to discover the magic of radio. In this episode we talk about the accessibility and style of various elected officials, a press conference with Governor Cellucci at the Highland Restaurant, and how that's the kind of authenticity we could use today between public officials and reporters. Larry is a treasure and has contributed to this community immensely through his passion for radio and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Larry Kratka. John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency, which provides top-tier digital marketing services, web development, branding, PR, communications and more. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

A Divorced Mom turned Standup Comedian, Eryca Nolan considers herself Funny As A Mother. See her entertain audiences with her wit and unfiltered honesty as she shares her tales of Motherhood, Love and most importantly Wine. She's also the proud producer of a Standup Comedy Show, Project HERlarious, a Mostly Female, All Hilarious Comedy Show filled with Female Comedians from across the United States. “I want to focus a majority of time working with and learning from like minded, supportive women. What better way of accomplishing this than by creating a platform of my own. “ Cara, John and Eryca cover a lot of ground, including Cara's newly minted "Old Money Brunette" look - although it's actually her natural hair color, the backlash to the backlash of the Taylor Swiftiness Super Bowl-bound KC Chiefs, Eryca's blended family, wine, the HERlarious Project supporting women in comedy, her on-stage style, her BBQ business that is crushing it in the Berkshires of Western Mass. and a whole lot more. Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Cara and John catch up with Chantell McFarland who recently returned from a hugely successful run at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis with Diego Mongue and his band. Chantell has something in common with John and Cara as a stepmom making it work in the blended family. We cover almost scripted Taylor Swift, KC Chiefs, NFL season, Cara's purchasing Halara overalls for comfort and to relive her college days, Chantell talks about her wedding dress video that went viral and got over a million views on Facebook, the experience in Memphis where the band had seven performances including at a radio station there, her inspiration to get back into performing music after a longtime away and more! Songstress, Chantell, is a classically trained artist from Chicago, not residing in the idyllic hills of Berkshire County. In her early career, Chantell performed on studio albums for PBS Kids and Sesame Street. In 2021, Chantell performed in a concert of encouragement and hope for essential workers featuring Cellist, Yo-yo Ma and The Boston Symphony Orchestra's maestro, Manny Ax. In 2023, Chantell joined the Diego Mongue Band and was a semi finalist in the International Blues Challenge. She was also accepted into the Recording Academy. Chantell's love for music and people are intrinsic within her melodious vocal arrangements and soulful songwriting. Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Ep2 with candle and soap maker Soma Dinicola, talking blending families, running a small business, creating product and marketing them. We'll follow-up with your feedback on our conversation about the Stanley Cup Tumbler, narcissistic relationships, finding love and marriage the second time around and more! Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! #stanleycupquencher #williamstanley #family #theblend #blendingfamily #theblender #raisingoursons #dad #mom #greatbarrington #stanleyquencher --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

The opener for a podcast about life after divorce, dating, finding love again, blending a family and making it all work! John and Cara talk about how they got together after divorce and difficult times, including how he "rolled" into her DMs, figuring out how to date in the teeth of COVID and figuring out how to just get a cup of coffee when everything was closed! John and Cara also cover the craze over the Valentine-themed Stanley Cup Quencher, the history of the Stanley Cup coming from Great Barrington and how that town could capitalize on the history (Stanley-fest? Quench-tacular?). Cara Krol is the author of Fairy Slippers and Molly Saves the Bees: https://www.fairyslippers.info/books In addition to being an author, Cara is an energy healer and intuitive coach. Her website for her business Balance & Bliss Wellness is https://balanceandblisswellness.com John Krol is the owner of One Eighty Media marketing agency: https://oneeightymedia.com/ a longtime radio/television and podcast host and producer. John and Cara are raising a family of five kiddos between the ages of 8 and 15, making it all work! #stanleycupquencher #williamstanley #family #theblend #blendingfamily #theblender #raisingoursons #dad #mom #greatbarrington #stanleyquencher --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

John shares his vision for Pittsfield and differentiates from the status quo in making change in the city - including putting families first, curbing skyrocketing taxes, creating desperately needed financial transparency in the city with an independent internal auditor, revitalizing the downtown, having a clear vision with downtown police foot patrol and a sense of urgency to position Pittsfield as the culturally rich hub of the Berkshires, improving city services, having a respectful, professional leader as mayor to work at elevating city staff and more! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

What exactly is the purpose of public education? It's a fundamental question that Kristina Cardot hits head-on in the work that she does every single day. As a longtime former art teacher in the public school system, she offers a powerful critique of something many are thinking and starting to talk about more than ever - public education's obsession with standardized testing. This is not to say we shouldn't have benchmarks, of course there should. However, since education reform in Massachusetts in 1993, Kristina (as many others believe) says creativity, spontaneity and some of the greatest opportunities to truly learn have been highjacked by high-stakes testing. "Art is the only place where you can have different answers and still be all right," says Kristina who is the founder of the RE-FORMation Academy powered by her business The Funky Phoenix, where they specialize in making wonderful new work out of repurposed materials. She is working with the Pittsfield schools to develop safe spaces for students and creating an atmosphere of belonging. Incidentally, the conversation in regard to standardized testing is timely as there is now a movement to abolish the MCAS as a graduation requirement. The Mass. Teachers Association is publicly supporting this ballot question. Also in this episode we cover: education reform, social-emotional needs of students and teachers, processing trauma, the origin of RE-FORMation Academy, everyone has creativity and how our system dampens it and discourages it, The Funky Phoenix origin, creating a more sustainable community and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kristina Cardot. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It was the power of journaling, allowing a very young Elizabeth Heller to write about the "big feelings," that she says saved her own life. As a victim of trauma and abuse at the age of four, she found that the journaling allowed her to step outside and look at her emotions and find a level of peace - and it's a bit of magic that she is dedicating herself to sharing with the world. This is the case, particularly for kids, as she has developed the concept into a journal that offers a fun and guided path for children to begin their own journey of mindfulness. Elizabeth's own journey has brought to her to the Berkshires after decades in Boston. Like many others, the pandemic led to a pretty dramatic shift in her life, and has now become an active member of the community, hosting workshops in schools and more. Also in this episode we cover: the power of mindfulness, meditation, her young days as a ballerina, her 4 a.m. moment that led to a book proposal, starting her own business, EforAll, the rewards and challenges of being an entrepreneur, breathing, absorbing joy, the stress for kids in schools with high stakes testing and less and less recess time, gratitude, the Kids Super Journal Podcast, journaling in the morning and enjoying your personal time in the early hours. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Elizabeth Heller. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It's been quite a journey from Melissa Helm's hometown of Glens Falls, to working in the non-profit world on Wall Street (of all places) and then to the Berkshires - which she is very happy to call her home. Drawn by work in corporate wellness, Melissa would later work at Kripalu and its signature stress resilience program. This all aligned with Melissa who has grown throughout her own mental health journey, struggling during her college years with stress and anxiety. She later realized that many of her peers were facing similar challenges, and she wondered at the time why there was so little conversation about mental health issues. As the executive director of NAMI Berkshire County, she continues the work in bringing mental health and suicide prevention out of the shadows - and is at the forefront of broadening the base of support in the community. Leading support groups, including peer and family support, trainings for community members and educational programs, Melissa is guiding the organization to fulfill its vision. Also in this episode we cover: Where NAMI fits into the mental health support community, the organization's youth retreat at Kripalu, mindfulness, the effectiveness of peer support, the inability to meet the mental health demands of the community and several months' wait for mental health appointments, staffing, wages, clinician burnout, insurance reimbursements, the NAMI 5K in Lenox June 17th, fundraising, the pace of the Berkshires vs. NYC, positive psychology, meditation and being present, and Melissa's part-time gig bartending at Mo's Tavern. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Melissa Helm. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Among 2700 YMCAs across the nation, it is not likely that there are many with the remarkable experiences that Randy Kinnas has had over his 27 years with the organization. From living himself at a Y at his first job in Lawrence, Massachusetts to overseeing a unique quasi-public/private operation in his first CEO role with the Northern Berkshire YMCA, to overseeing a merger countywide to ushering in the beginning stages of the most recent capital project at the Pittsfield Family YMCA - there isn't much he hasn't seen. For Randy it continues to be about focus on two core priorities: building relationships and achieving tangible results. Now as the COO of the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs, Randy provides support and his guidance to YMCAs across the state, and while he has always had an eye on moving to the national scale, the Berkshires is his home and the more reasonable commutes suit him today, as he raises four children, including two boys who are just about Little League age. Also in this episode we cover: Randy's early days in the Y, and applying for his first CEO position in North Adams at the age of 29 (with the encouragement of his Mom), opening the box of character development, thinking differently on the use of space at the Y, the expansion of child care and child programs, running a non-profit sustainably, the innovation of the Northern Berkshire YMCA model that includes a public school attached to the facility, the Ponterril property (still owned by the Y), the Mass. Alliance of YMCAs shared services model, raising two older daughters and two younger boys, lessons from playing sports, the old CYC basketball and learning the fundamentals, playing basketball for Westfield State College and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Randy Kinnas. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It may have started with her daughter wanting to join the Youth Alive step team, however, Leah Reed's involvement in the Women of Color Giving Circle was a spiritual extension of the legacy of her legendary grandmother Edna Wilks and the Monday Night Club. And it is a true Circle, says Leah, as "everyone can contribute and everyone has something to give" as it relates to providing mentorship to build self-esteem and resilience for the young people of color in our community. Her experience is informed by Leah's own journey that included losing both her parents at a very young age, but never forgetting their lessons of respect and prioritizing education. Earning the wonderful accolade as Best Mom at the 2023 Albany Tulip Festival, Leah has three children, including an oldest daughter who she has fostered for more than a decade and will soon be adopted, which is sure to be a joyous occasion. This weekend the Women of Color Giving Circle will celebrate the latest graduating class of young people of color, another tradition started by the organization to recognize success. Also in this episode we cover: the contributions of Leah's grandmother Edna Wilks, being proactive rather than reactive in developing mentorship, Leah's journey as a young person of color at Monument Mountain and navigating life after losing her father at 16, setting high standards, her work to earn her masters at Boston University School of Social Work, learning to provide constructive feedback effectively, exposing children to financial literacy, music, expressive dance and other cultural arts, disparity in health care for African Americans, the surprise honor of Mom of the Year at the Albany Tulip Festival and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Leah Reed. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It was more than four decades ago that Marge Cohan started to get serious about bicycling. She had met her future husband at the Josh Billings and she was hooked. Still, she never could have imagined that she would be one of the key advocates to stretch a bike path through the Berkshires from Vermont to Connecticut. It's a slog, especially in Massachusetts where bike paths are built to strict specifications. For instance, in New York the Empire State Trail covers 750 miles, traversing multiple types of surfaces and varying widths. It's not as simple in Massachusetts where one mile of trail costs about $2 million to construct. It's built well, but it doesn't happen overnight. Today, the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail has extended now to Crane Avenue in Pittsfield from the north and will soon have another section completed to Merrill Road. As it is, the bike trail section from the Pittsfield/Lanesboro border to Crane Avenue is the most-used recreational hub in the city. The month of May is Bay State Bike month and there are several events to promote bike safety, the concept of bikes mean business and bike tourism. And there is potential for growth on the bike tourism side of things. For instance, Pittsfield lies on the path of the popular Western New England Greenway, which draws thousands of bicyclists annually. I admire Margie's longterm commitment to making it happen and her passion for bicycling. Also in this episode we cover: the politics and logistics of developing a countywide bike path, bikes mean business, e-bikes and making bicycling more accessible to people of all ages, Margie's personal experience bicycling for commuting and for enjoyment, riding groups, the challenges for those without motor vehicles in the Berkshires and its economic impact, lights (on bikes) is the law, the progress of running the bike path through Williamstown into North Adams, new laws to give bicyclists and motor vehicle operators some leeway and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Marge Cohan. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It's a passion project that has been brewing since the mid-1990s for Gina Coleman, whose encounter with the legendary Odetta left a powerful impression. The moment when Gina and Odetta connected, sang side-by-side and locked together in harmony was a seminal moment in her career. This inspiration will come full circle in the form of a live album to be recorded May 12th and 13th in Studio 9 at the Porches Inn. The switch to acoustic and performing folk standards will be a switch for the Misty Blues. But pushing to the edges of the blues genre is nothing new for the band. And anyway, as Gina explains in this episode, African-American folk music is most certainly blues in her book. This performance and upcoming album comes on the heels of Misty Blues' most recent album "Outside the Lines," which includes a rich array of familiar voices and performers from the Berkshires and beyond. Gina and her band have not skipped a beat, not even during the pandemic, when they remarkably released three albums with the band members recording virtually. The beat goes on for Gina, and as someone who admits she basically doesn't sleep, there is surely more to come. We love it! Also in this episode we cover: the story of meeting Odetta at the Bottomline club in New York City as a guest of Arlo Guthrie, the decision to make this tribute a live album, growing up on the Bronx as hip hop and rap came on the scene, musical influences, including Motown and salsa, the earlier band Cole Connection and their acoustic funk style, a part in a Williamstown Theatre Festival production as a gospel singer that led to a transformative transition to blues, the rich variety of blues music, Gina's songwriting process and how much of it comes while she is driving, why she once utilized answering machines in her songwriting process, her son Diego choosing music as a major at Williams College, the evolution of Misty Blues from a blues tribute band to producing original music, the story of Charles Neville performing on an album, Gina's 27 years coaching rugby at Williams College and why the sport inspires her, performing at Firefly in Lenox and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Gina Coleman. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

When he saw too many kids without a focus and without something to do, especially as opportunities were fewer and farther between amid the pandemic, Dashine Moore took the steps to establish the Beat the Streets basketball program. Now in its third year, Dashine sees the value of the evolving program continue with the cost of traditional summer camps continuing to rise out of the reach of many young people and their families. Galvanizing the support of various nonprofits to make it all come together, Dashine has a particular drive to give back to the community as his own path has been a long and winding. This included five and a half years of incarceration. That experience is a lesson he shares with young people in the program to urge them to make better choices. His time away from his sons in prison also makes it all that sweeter to see the success of his boys, one in prep school and one who just won a state championship as a member of the Taconic High School basketball team. Dashine has a powerful story and I appreciate having the opportunity to share it in this episode. Also, we cover: Kicks for Kids and the support of Barrington Stage Company, the power of role models, legendary youth advocates Manny Slaughter, Shirley Edgerton and Valerie Hamilton, a community center, mentorship programs, financial literacy, his experience at Norfolk prison in Boston, his business Mr. Feets, the economics of sneakers, flipping sneakers, selling paintings, bringing back the Gather-In and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Dashine Moore. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Families with kids simply want more fun things to do in the Berkshires. Melissa and Ken Fawcett have shown that filling a part of this niche can be hugely successful, as the indoor playground, Ready Set Play, has been just about fully-booked for weekend parties from the very beginning when they opened in October 2022. Responding to the clear demand for working families seems to be a great business model for the couple, as their first venture Ready Set Learn was immediately successful. The demand was so high for their pre-K education and play center, they opened a second location. Interestingly, Melissa's jump into private business came when she ran into a bit of a roadblock as a teacher in the public schools. Hoping to move from teaching fourth grade to kindergarten or first grade, the transfer never happened. The rest is history, as Read Set Learn was born - first on Virginia Avenue, and then to a converted church at the corner of Dalton Ave. and Benedict Road. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

"We can do this better," is what Christine and Bill said to themselves after spending some years in the craft beer industry, and seeing their own employer evolve quickly from a small regional brewery to an impersonal, corporatized operation. When the making of beer became more about pushing the right buttons on programmed machinery than following their creative passion - they knew it was time to do their own thing. It was the mid-2000s, and the craft beer industry was growing, but with a big discrepancy in the quality of what was coming into the market. There was an opportunity. Traveling through New England from their home base outside of Philadelphia, it was the iconic fiberglass, painted sheep from Pittsfield's Sheeptacular that drew their attention. A first tour of Pittsfield was made memorable when the couple received a remarkably warm welcome by Mayor Jim Ruberto who took the time to meet with the couple personally on a whim. "Where are we in America?" recalls Bill who is still struck how a city's mayor would drop everything to meet with a couple of unknown entrepreneurs to sell the city to them. To some extent, the rest is history as it relates to Christine Bump and Bill Heaton's indelible impact on the Berkshires' restaurant and beer scene. Five years running a restaurant in Downtown Pittsfield led to the pair pouring themselves into their true passion, which of course, is brewing the very best. Big Elm was born, and today, in addition to the brewery and tap room in Sheffield, they have also opened a second tap room in Great Barrington. In this episode we also cover: The early days of craft brewing, working at Victory Brewing Company outside Philadelphia, starting a restaurant with no experience and relying on those who do, empowering employees, being inspired to brew beer in college and the early craft beers there were more few and far between, the high quality of today's craft beers, the power of a partnership that continues through the end of a marriage, the origin story of Big Elm, the never-ending popularity of IPAs, the concept of a brew trail in the Berkshires and collaboration of all the local breweries, surviving the winter seasons in the Berkshires, beer yoga and other creative events, the power of having current and former teachers as staff members and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Christine Bump and Bill Heaton of Big Elm Brewery. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

While she has been the executive director of Berkshire Music School for three years, Natalie Neubert is still regularly introducing herself to the wider community in her "new" role as she took over just before the lockdown of the pandemic. As the broader Berkshire community is still getting to know her, Natalie has been busy reimagining the offerings at the venerable cultural institution on Wendell Avenue in Pittsfield. Today, there is a grander mesh of musical opportunities that are lighting up the imaginations of young and old alike. This includes electronic, DJ, computer music, sound design, video game design music, which Natalie is working to include into a wider curriculum to add to the traditional music lessons for the classic instruments, such as the piano and violin. Like all successful non-profits, it's a team effort. Also on the this episode we welcome BMS board member Karen Cellini and her partner, Joe Corcoran, who are both producers for the upcoming production of Tony and Tina's Wedding on April 29th at the Holiday Inn, which is serving as a major fundraiser for the Berkshire Music School. And this one is not to be missed, as Pittsfield's former Mayor, Jimmy Ruberto, will be cameo role as Uncle Luigi. That's worth the price of admission on its own! Also in this episode, we cover: Natalie's artistic journey from piano, sax, electronic music and her love of Bach, not being Kenny G, tonalities, Karen's past work with the Storefront Artists Project, the value of music infused into public education, leveraging our cultural institutions in the Berkshires to enrich our schools, power of sound and frequency, mastery and also being in the moment with activities that simply bring you joy, and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Natalie, Karen and Joe. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It is deeply personal and labor of love for Luke Fitzgerald. He launched The Love of T Foundation honoring his late mother, Teresa. He says the mission of the organization fits "hand-in-hand" with how Teresa lived, as she was always there for loved ones during their own struggles in life. In finding the way that the organization can best support the community in suicide prevention, Luke was dedicated to finding the right niche. After a great deal of research, and with the help of board member and Pittsfield native Dr. Daniel Burt, the organization is developing a dedicated peer-to-peer program intended to fill gaps in the current model and provide a path to systemic change to better prevent suicide. The Berkshires has the second highest suicide rate in the state. Studies show that when individuals work directly with a peer specialist, hospitalization rates go down, in-patient services go down, self-stigma goes down, and the individual shows an overall increase in empowerment and hope. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Luke Fitzgerald. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It was deeply ingrained into his soul as a child as he listened to the jukebox at his Uncle John's, and with early vinyl records in the 1970s. That sound mesmerized young Tim Dupree and his early fascination with 50s and 60s rock n' roll, then soul and Motown music, never ceased. What also never left him was the love of the sound of vinyl, and over the years he has accumulated over 20,000 records and LPs. Today, as the warmer sound and tactile aspect has popularized vinyl again, DJ Pup Daddy (Tim's stage name) has carved a strong niche in the market with his use of those old (and sometimes new) records. And, by the way, that old jukebox was handed down to him and it remains proudly in Tim's home, along with a number of the vintage turntables and other equipment he has restored. I love this conversation with Tim, as he has truly followed his passion to make it a career. Also, in this episode, we cover the longevity (or lack thereof) of vinyl, CDs, 8-Tracks, cassettes, Tim's process of DJ'ing a party and "it's always spontaneous," growing up using walkie-talkies with his brother playing the role of DJ, back playing and "cue burn" on the turntable, direct drive vs. belt-driven turntables, why Tim shies away from working first weddings, scanning the dump and Goodwill for equipment, tube amplifiers, challenges and opportunities for downtown Pittsfield, dog sitting on the side and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Tim Dupree (aka DJ Pup Daddy). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

No matter how large or small the company, the characteristics, emotional intelligence, and general mood of the leader inevitably impacts the entire operation. In fact, that correlation between the mood of the leader (CEO, president, owner, etc.) and the bottomline performance of the company has been proven in several studies. Pascal Renders has been at the forefront of this type of work, as a consultant for large corporations, particularly in his years in Belgium, where he garnered a reputation for getting deep and personal with business leaders to address areas of struggle. A transpersonal psychotherapist, Pascal believes in a holistic view of addressing systemic problems within organizations and that if you do not deal with the deep underlying issues, behavioral patterns of company leaders will continue no matter how an organization may shake up personnel or its structure. This is one of the most interesting conversations I have had in regard to leadership, which is a topic we often delve into on the podcast. It's definitely worth the listen! Also in this episode, we cover: "bad bosses," the ineffectiveness of typical corporate approaches to instilling values and company culture, compartmentalizing and the pitfalls of it, catastrophic team-building sessions, respect for employees, challenging his future wife, Alexandra, to align her company with her own values, discovering a new modality to address trauma, Pascal's work with individuals and couples, the mind vs. the brain, family constellations, generational trauma, emotional intelligence, HeartMath, his organization United Inner States of Freedom, bringing the best out of people and much more.I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Pascal Renders. Pascal's bio: A native of Belgium, Pascal is a dynamic, multi-lingual professional well versed in a wide variety of business functions. For the past 12 years, as Founder and CEO of Quantumize, Pascal has provided executive and life coaching to a broad range of companies and individuals throughout Europe and the US. His clients are family offices, and companies in the banking, insurance, and investment management industries. He has also worked with companies in the retail, food, luxury goods, leisure, and cosmetics industries. Earlier, Pascal was an Operations and General Manager for companies in the food and leisure, and HR and consulting industries. He began his professional life as a Start-Up and Business Development Manager for a Brussels-based family owned business invested in the leisure industry.Pascal completed training in Systematic Coaching, Destination Coaching Methodology, Transpersonal Psychotherapy, Systemic Constellation Work, Body-Oriented Trauma Resolution, and is an accredited practitioner of HeartMath, Insights Discovery, Emotional and Social Competence Indicator, and the Birth into Being Method. After graduating from St Jan Berchmans, a renowned Jesuit High School in Brussels, Pascal also earned a combined BA/MA in English-Spanish Translation from the University of Brussels and holds an Executive MBA from Antwerp Management School (AMS). www.innerstatesoffreedom.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It all began on the simple premise that there was no place for competitive runners to buy racing flats anywhere in the Berkshires. Over the past dozen years, Berkshire Running Center has been the centerpiece of a loyal, growing running community that has elevated the sport to a true attraction to our region, and put the Berkshires on the map for running race tourism. This has been the passion of the Kent and Shiobbean Lemme. Over the years, the BRC professionally filled a much-needed niche for running races throughout the Berkshires by providing a turnkey operation to manage races. In turn, Kent and Shiobbean have helped countless organizations raise money for worthy causes, which is often the mission of road races. Today, they have moved it to the next level with the creation of the Berkshire Running Foundation, a 501c3 with a mission to expand the reach and impact of the movement and promote the essence that the sport of running encourages; a safe, healthy and balanced life. With the lead sponsor for the popular Steel Rail Races, MountainOne, coming on board, they're off to a great start. MountainOne's Jon Denmark joins us to provide insight into their organization's decision to support the events and BRF. And both Shiobbean and Jon share their backstory on how running has become ingrained in their own lives. Also in this episode we cover: the origin story of BRC, the Green Mile origin and bringing the race back to downtown Pittsfield, running with a baby stroller (clutch Dad move), the historic Mother's Day race in Pittsfield which is the longest running consecutive all-women's race in the country (47 years), race tourism, the Berkshires' position to take advantage of qualifiers for the Boston and NYC Marathons, the purpose behind creating a non-profit entity, the refueling of the Independence Run (Fourth of July Race) in Pittsfield, running as "the oldest friend I have" to Shiobbean, stopping at Dominos Pizza to heat frozen hats and gloves during a frigid Berkshire run, Appalachian Trail economic impact, the bustling Allendale Underground community, the motivational and social aspects of running groups and more.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Shiobbean Lemme and Jonathan Denmark. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

Sure, Carrie Wright appeared on the podcast to plug the Berkshire Art Center (formerly IS183) annual Gala, Metallic Couture Disco, Saturday April 1st, but we certainly had to cover more ground than that. We started from the beginning when Carrie "grew up" on Bousquet Mountain, then went on Colorado State, and continued her journey on various ski mountains with a core group of friends, including her future husband, Bill. An artist herself, Carrie has been one of the most visible organizers and advocates in the Berkshire arts scene, including her work in the 10x10 festivals and, of course, her work supporting IS183. After the pandemic disruption, she reinvented herself and became a licensed realtor. At first, she feared that her new role would diminish her ability to give back to the community, as she did when she worked in the non-profit world. Turns out that this was not the case, and Carrie feels like she's able to do more than ever to support others. Also in this episode we cover: Carrie's sing-talking with her kids and a demonstration in the episode, the photo and video events before the event to promote past IS183 galas, DJ Ryan Brown, the different ways to pronounce Palmer's variety store on Elm St., Bill and son Pilot's Instagram reviews of tin fish and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Carrie Wright. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

For the love of the game. Steve Kotski has dedicated himself, not only as a Dad and coach, but as the president of the National League division of Pittsfield Little League. For him, his passion was solidified back when he was a kid as a baseball and hockey player rising through the ranks and forging lasting friendships and a solid work ethic. Today, he works to instill those values in the players on his team and in the 9-12 year olds throughout the league. And at the same time, in a day in age when Little League has become quite competitive, it's important to make sure the kids have fun! In this episode, we cover: the specialization of youth sports vs. playing multiple sports throughout the year, the different characteristics of the American and National divisions in Pittsfield Little League, maintaining fields and the volunteers and coaches who do it (including Steve), tryouts for Little League (they're coming up this weekend!), the culture of travel teams, all-star teams, the Jimmy Fund tournament, 1791 and Pittsfield as the home of baseball, teaching resilience in kids and getting back up and swinging again after striking out, advice for parents and coaches, drills for parents to help kids with mechanics, Steve's wife Amy's role in supporting the team and league, and her amazing business Designer Consigner at the Allendale Underground, the return of Legion ball, Lou Orazio and the success of the Berkshire Adult Baseball League, and much more! I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Steve Kotski. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

From her earliest days as a little girl, the power of drawing on a page fascinated and inspired Sally Tiska Rice. Coming down late at night to learn the tricks of the trade from her father who drew blueprints for a living, there was a magic at the end of the pencil. Her love of the process was interwoven into her 25-year career on the team at Crane & Co., which created its legendary stationery. Part of the work, which included custom stationery for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, the Kennedy family, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Ozzy Osbourne, was done with handmade brushes painting ink on 100 percent cotton paper - impossible to be replicated by a printer or press. After years of involvement in the local arts community, including NUarts downtown, Sally is now a part of the burgeoning Clocktower Artists. The group is growing with the support of landlord David Carver, who is building out more space in the Clocktower building on S. Church St. in Pittsfield to accommodate demand for more artists. Sally says she's not an extrovert by nature, but she's seen a lot of great results by "putting herself out there" to support this project and her own artwork. We're glad she has! Also in this episode, we cover: Sally's mentorship of fellow students with art projects at a young age, her own early mentors at North Junior High, Pittsfield High School and at Berkshire Community College, working in several media and a recent focus in water colors, overcoming health challenges and multiple spine surgeries, her work doing commissioned pieces, connecting with Mary McGinnis and other artists in the early days of the First Fridays Art Walk, her spirituality and what inspires her own work, and much more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Sally Tiska Rice. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/john-krol/support

It was a concept that brought so much joy to their own family on vacations in the past, Heather and Jeff King knew that it was a business ripe for success in the Berkshires. After nearly three years open, a second location and further expansion into other locations, Shire Donuts just continues to put smiles on the faces of happy customers. And why not? Who doesn't love a great donut? It's just one of the recent ventures that Heather and Jeff have taken together after decades of working the traditional salaried 40-hour per week jobs. The other, being real estate, came when they were nudged along by their friends and colleagues Jay and Jennifer Nocher. True to form, Heather and Jeff work as a team leading with their own particular strengths as they focus on building long-term relationships for buyers and sellers. As they look to expand Shire into other retail locations, they are also considering the move into south county, and Great Barrington, in particular. We also cover in this episode: managing customer service with, often, long lines of customers (especially when the shops first opened), quality control "Heather-approved" donuts and training their workers ("donut artists), the product marketing and selling itself through social media and world-of-mouth, Heather and Jeff's first date at Ye Olde Forge, the dynamics of the current real estate market, tricks to keep donuts fresh after purchase (hint: it includes a container and a piece of bread), the value proposition of being open just three days per week, Dunkin' and Donut Man, expanding offerings of coffee with their partner Currency Coffee, working with their daughters Lauren and Chloe and more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Jeff and Heather King. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

Merging the mission of her company into full alignment with her authentic true self took a powerful leap of faith. This was a particularly bold move in the no-nonsense profit-driven industry of financial advising. But, for Alexandra Dest Renders, "it was time to get real." Those were the words of her husband, and business coach, Pascal Renders, who threw down the gauntlet and challenged her. In spite of more than three decades of great success in her industry, Alexandra was still "fragmented" and her business didn't truly reflect herself as an individual who is "deeply sentient, highly intuitive, and very sensitive to other humans." Today, her firm Willow Investments for Loving Change stands on her core values. She believes that "capitalism is not only ripe for a change but it is necessary for the well-being of humanity." That's a far cry from the classic Gordon Gekko "greed is good" philosophy, which we discuss in this episode. We also cover: the masks that are often worn in the corporate and business world, particularly on Wall Street, being vulnerable, following your inner compass, Alexandra's early professional successes and being a "closet" intuitive, quietly combining her analytical and psychic abilities, the launching on her new newsletter the "Economic Intuitive," the continuing weakening of the dollar (petro dollar), the emerging importance of local community sustainability, the ongoing challenges in the housing market amid the high cost of building materials, the spiritual experience in Grand Central Station that led her to the Berkshires, her journey from a diagnosis of MS to full health utilizing natural healing, taking the leap into starting her own business years ago, her vision for leadership and the partnership with her husband, Pascal, helping develop more leaders, and much more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Alexandra Dest Renders. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

Arriving from Brazil unable to speak English a dozen years ago, completely shifting in her career and finding the love of her life in the Berkshires, the only constant for Karen Murray is change. As a mother who has advocated strongly for her daughter, Victoria, Karen has served as a translator in the public schools. Today, the language barrier continues to be a challenge for families with parents who have trouble speaking English, or don't speak it all. In her role at the RMV, Karen has distinguished herself for her focus on changing the culture to focus more on customer service and she's had great mentors along the way who she credits for helping her get there. "It's impossible to do it all by yourself," says Karen, who also is a pretty accomplished singer, snowboarder and an avid traveler. In this episode we cover her roots growing up in a political family in Brazil, how she found her way to the Berkshires, some quick tips along with the hard work that helped her learn to speak English (hint: it includes watching movies with subtitles), how she met her husband, John, and the inspiration he is for those who believe in second chances and much more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Karen Murray. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

Even at the young age of 12, Kaitlyn Pierce was way ahead of her time in the area of online marketing. As a superfan of the Backstreet Boys, she received permission from AOL back in the day to increase the size of her subscriber list, disseminating the latest info on the boy band. She's come a long way from those days when she was known as the Backstreet Boys Girl. And yet, she continues to be well ahead of the curve as a small business owner and as a mother. Starting her own business, Pierce Social, was the outgrowth of her years of experience as a social media manager and a necessity to have more flexibility in her schedule to be the mother she wants to be. In addition, Kaitlyn homeschools her children, which we explore in-depth in this episode. We also cover the powerful decision she made in her teenage years after an incredibly difficult experience of her own in the public schools marked by chronic health issues, anxiety and depression. Kaitlyn is an inspiration and shining light in our community. Also in this episode, we cover: productivity of working from home verses at the office, taking the leap to go into business for yourself, content creation and social media strategy, the storytime concept, the value of doing makeup while telling a story on social media, social media as a PR strategy, sharing your expertise, the mindset shift for successful homeschooling, taking the time to allow your children to explore (go down the rabbit hole) in homeschool lessons, and much more. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kaitlyn Pierce. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

A laser-focused interest in the nature and process of politics and the art of being a great bartender gives Casey Pease a unique set of skills in his area of work. Having run for statewide office before the age of 21, while also working all aspects of various campaigns, he's grown up professionally in a world that truly provides insight into human nature. Today, he now is working full-time for the state senator he helped get elected in 2022, Paul Mark. In this interview, recorded just after the election, we cover a great deal of ground, including: his niche as a bartender and his own side business he has created, his favorite and least favorite drinks to make, craft cocktails, the night scene in the Berkshires and in Pittsfield, the basic framework for political campaigns, knocking doors in a campaign, the impact of national politics on local and state politics, the reduction of local and statewide news coverage, finding commonalities among constituents and more. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Casey Pease. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

It is said when the student is ready, the teacher will appear. For Jerrid Burdick, through successes, failures, lessons and finding his way to life/work balance, there have always been people who have entered into his life just at the right time. It's all in the timing, and the humility to be open to the next lesson. Growing up on a farm on Florida Mountain, it would have been hard to imagine that Jerrid would have made his mark selling tuxedos for celebrations throughout the Berkshires. But, then again, throughout his childhood he never knew himself that his mother and grandmother were master seamstresses - and his natural ability with the measuring tape was no coincidence. "It's in your blood, pay attention, " he later heard when he began working in a tuxedo shop in North Adams. In business, Jerrid showed innovation right from the start when he was a teen-ager creating a service that delivered tuxes (no brick and mortar required) and found a niche in various high schools during prom season. He also felt the sting of stepping into a hyper-competitive market with heavy hitters who would try to take him out of the game - landing infamously on the front page of the local newspaper. He also felt the devastation of bankruptcy, which he says was the result of not keeping his own ego in check. Another lesson learned. Still, even when he went back to work in a more traditional job to get back on his feet financially, he knew where his passion was and he would not be denied. In this episode we cover his full professional journey, landing in the Berkshire Mall with Tux Express, and quickly realizing he needed more room to grow. The gutsy move to North Street raised eyebrows, as he was suddenly situated just a few doors down the street from his top competitor. We also cover: a surprise phone call that led to a lasting mentorship and enduring friendship, the development of a web presence for what ultimately became the Berkshire Wedding Expo, family life, fatherhood, self-care, the economics of weddings, capturing the business of those traveling in to get married in the Berkshires, the evolution of wedding and prom menswear, spirituality, the massive impact of COVID on his business and the industry, and not dwelling on mistakes, but instead, learning quickly and moving forward. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jerrid Burdick. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support

It is said when the student is ready, the teacher will appear. For Jerrid Burdick, through successes, failures, lessons and finding his way to life/work balance, there have always been people who have entered into his life just at the right time. It's all in the timing, and the humility to be open to the next lesson. Growing up on a farm on Florida Mountain, it would have been hard to imagine that Jerrid would have made his mark selling tuxedos for celebrations throughout the Berkshires. But, then again, throughout his childhood he never knew himself that his mother and grandmother were master seamstresses - and his natural ability with the measuring tape was no coincidence. "It's in your blood, pay attention, " he later heard when he began working in a tuxedo shop in North Adams. In business, Jerrid showed innovation right from the start when he was a teen-ager creating a service that delivered tuxes (no brick and mortar required) and found a niche in various high schools during prom season. He also felt the sting of stepping into a hyper-competitive market with heavy hitters who would try to take him out of the game - landing infamously on the front page of the local newspaper. He also felt the devastation of bankruptcy, which he says was the result of not keeping his own ego in check. Another lesson learned. Still, even when he went back to work in a more traditional job to get back on his feet financially, he knew where his passion was and he would not be denied. In this episode we cover his full professional journey, landing in the Berkshire Mall with Tux Express, and quickly realizing he needed more room to grow. The gutsy move to North Street raised eyebrows, as he was suddenly situated just a few doors down the street from his top competitor. We also cover: a surprise phone call that led to a lasting mentorship and enduring friendship, the development of a web presence for what ultimately became the Berkshire Wedding Expo, family life, fatherhood, self-care, the economics of weddings, capturing the business of those traveling in to get married in the Berkshires, the evolution of wedding and prom menswear, spirituality, the massive impact of COVID on his business and the industry, and not dwelling on mistakes, but instead, learning quickly and moving forward. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with Jerrid Burdick. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/john-krol/support