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We don't know how to talk about death.Longtime Seacoast resident Laura Cleminson wants to change that.At the Pre-Dead Social Club, Seacoast residents of all ages gather monthly for a "die-a-logue" at author talks, panel discussions, and Death Over Drinks, the club's signature event.Cleminson, who also delivered a TEDx Portsmouth talk in 2024, became fascinated with death a decade ago when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. She noticed she had no tools for helping her mother through that time, a realization that eventually led her to become a death doula and the founder of the Pre-Dead Social Club.From the West End of Portsmouth, Cleminson joins host Troy Farkas for a wide-ranging discussion about death - why we avoid it, her first experiences with it, how to better help our loved ones during that time, how the Pre-Dead Social Club has taken off in the last three years, and why it's welcomed nearly 1,200 people through its doors since then.To learn more about the Pre-Dead Social Club, visit predeadsocialclub.com.SUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.Join our FREE online community, The Local Thread, hereUPCOMING EVENTS:Time 4 Joy hosted by I Got Bridged: Friday, September 18 at the Portsmouth Elks Lodge. Get your tickets here.Seacoast Stories PUB CRAWL in Portsmouth! Join us on Saturday, September 26 for an afternoon of connection and FUN. Get your tickets here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club pres. by SWTHZ: We're back in Manchester, N.H., on Wednesday, October 7! Book your seat at the table here."Seacoast Stories LIVE feat. Victoria Arlen" at The Press Room on Tuesday, October 13! Presented by SWTHZ. Get your tickets here.SPONSORS:The Iron Cactus: Kingston, N.H.'s home for yoga, infrared saunas, reiki, healthy eating, community and more.SWTHZ: Lock in your founding membership today at Portsmouth's newest home for wellness.RC Conner: The Seacoast's No. 1 home for kiln-dried firewood!CHAPTERS:SS pub crawl on 9/26! (00:00)Laura's first brushes with death (02:30)Why don't we discuss death? (08:52)How her mom's death changed everything (11:45)Warm your home with firewood from RC Conner (21:15)Visit The Iron Cactus in Kingston, N.H. (22:34)Taking an extreme interest in the end-of-life space (23:55)Starting the Pre-Dead Social Club (31:00)What happens at Death Over Drinks (38:05)Lock in a founding membership at SWTHZ in Portsmouth (42:25)Troy's experience with the Pre-Dead Social Club (43:27)Turning this club into a business (53:15)
Two stories in one podcast?!In this special Labor Day episode, host Troy Farkas hears the stories of two beloved Seacoast businesses.In Part One, Farkas travels to Somerworth, N.H. for a conversation with the co-founders of Popzup Popcorn, Marty and Julie Lapham. From their factory's floor, the husband-and-wife team talk about how they got started 10 years ago, the painstaking lengths they've taken to get organic & non-GMO labels, the pivotal moments that launched their company into the next stratosphere, the importance of keeping it a family business, and more.In Part Two, the show heads to Kittery Point, M.E. to talk to the longtime owner of the legendary Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier, Ron Spinney. Alongside manager Cam Barrett, Spinney tells stories from Chauncey Creek's 70 years in operation - a seaside joint known for serving steaming hot lobsters, its BYOB policy, and a callback to a simpler time.SUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.Join our FREE online community, The Local Thread, hereUPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club pres. by SWTHZ: We're back in Manchester, N.H., on Wednesday, October 7! Book your seat at the table here."Seacoast Stories LIVE feat. Victoria Arlen" at The Press Room on Tuesday, October 13! Presented by SWTHZ. Get your tickets here.SPONSORS:The Iron Cactus: Kingston, N.H.'s home for yoga, infrared saunas, red light therapy, reiki, sound healing, healthy eating, and more.Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Custom blinds, shades, and shutters! Reasonably priced and done right the first time.CHAPTERS:Seacoast Stories LIVE on 10/13 (00:00)The health-conscious ethos of Popzup Popcorn (02:10)The insane growth trajectory of Popzup (08:20)Reflecting on Popzup's success (18:40)BTS of Popzup's massive production process (20:22)Introducing The Iron Cactus (27:00)Custom blinds, shades & shutters at Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (28:20)How Chauncey Creek started 70 years ago (29:45)Why Spinney bought the business in the 80s (33:20)What makes Chauncey Creek special (34:54)Inside the lobster-eating experience (45:32)Looking ahead to the future (51:54)
Pastor and counselor Chip Judd returns with Jeff Leinberger, Ciarrah Lindsay, Lynne Story, and Joey Svendsen, continuing last week's conversation on Shades of Grace: Seeing People Through the Eyes of Jesus, Starting With Yourself.This week: self-love. What it actually looks like to love yourself, why it feels awkward even to try, and how ultimate surrender to God's sovereignty is really self-acceptance — easier said than done, since, as Chip puts it, the hardest person you'll ever have to learn to love is you. He walks through how to retrain your soul — one step is resting in God's love instead of chasing from people what only God can give. Chip also talks about the power of judgment-free environments that are also full of grace and truth, and Jeff, Ciarrah, and Joey turn that lens on Seacoast's own staff culture.Along the way, Joey shares a spiritual encounter he had with a homeless man, and the group gets into why Christians being "angry at sinners" doesn't add up.Get the first chapter of Chip's new book, Shades of Grace + be the first to get access when it releases by subscribing to his e-mail list. Chip Judd | Website | YouTube | Instagram Hosts Jeff Leinberger | Ciarrah Lindsay | Lynne Stroy | Joey Svendsen Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
A cowboy in York, Maine?
The fall football season kicks off next week and Sherm Chester is joined by Roger Brown from NHFootballReport.com at William Ball stadium and a Exeter Bluehawks preseason scrimmage. Roger gives his take on the Bluehawks and other Seacoast teams as they enter their final tune-ups and looks ahead to key teams and matchups in the 2026 season. Team schedules for all fall sports are available at NHIAA.org. Roger Browns coverage of all Granite State teams is available all season long at NHFootballReport.com
In this episode of the John Kitchens Coach Podcast Experience, John sits down with returning guest Fred Butts, co-founder of Arch & Pillar Group in New Hampshire's Seacoast region, to unpack how he and his business partner (and spouse) Elaine are breaking into a luxury real estate market that's been dominated for decades by legacy brokerages like Sotheby's, Christie's, and Compass. Fred walks through why he built a brand instead of leaning on his own name, how he prices for a market that rewards exclusivity over volume, and the specific, patient work of getting into the rooms (private clubs, nonprofit boards, chamber events) where high-net-worth relationships actually get built. It's a clear look at what it takes to reposition an established business around brand instead of personality, and what it means to play the long game in a legacy market.Key Topics Covered* What a “legacy market” is and how it differs from a fast-moving, transient luxury market* Why Fred and Elaine built the Arch & Pillar brand instead of marketing under their own names* Balancing personal brand (the face of the business) with company brand (the business itself)* Reading a legacy market's real pain points — family logistics, time, exclusivity, and dream-driven decisions* Crafting the offer: pairing “the chocolate” clients want with “the broccoli” they actually need* Why Fred refuses to discount, and how pricing should reflect the level of service delivered* Getting into the room: private clubs, The Music Hall, chamber of commerce, and nonprofit galas as relationship-building ground* Playing the long game with patience — staying calm above the water while paddling hard underneath* Managing client emotion and ego at higher price points* Why brand, not the agent's name, is the lasting moat in any market“People don't pay the country's best lawyers for the time that they're in the courtroom. They pay them for the thousands of other hours that they've spent in the courtroom before that event.” — Fred ButtsConnect With Us Ready to scale your real estate business with more freedom? Book your 7 Figure Audit at 7figurecall.com. Follow us: Instagram @johnkitchenscoach | LinkedIn @johnkitchenscoach | Facebook @johnkitchenscoach This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnkitchenscoachpodcast.substack.com
Mario LaPosta had a dream (literally).Following a nightmare about a kitchen incident, paired with his deep Italian roots and love of family meals at a long dinner table, LaPosta knew a future in the kitchen awaited him. Eventually, the Connecticut native moved to Italy so he could learn the ins and outs of the Neapolitan pizza-making process. Then, after returning to the States, he started running the pizza programs at a chain of restaurants outside of New York City, and then later, in Boston.On today's episode, Mario LaPosta of Mamma Luca joins host Troy Farkas to discuss his long, winding road to Mamma Luca - from the real deal kitchens of Rome to the cobblestone streets of Portsmouth. Additionally, the guys talk about what NOT to do when opening a restaurant, why the restaurant business is notoriously difficult to survive in, the compromise you have to make when opening an authentic Italian restaurant in America, and more.To check out Mamma Luca, pay them a visit at 111 State St. in downtown Portsmouth.SUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.Join our FREE online community, The Local Thread, here.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: We're in Newburyport, Mass., on Wednesday, September 2. Book your seat at the table here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club pres. by Partners Bank: We return to Kittery, Maine, on Wednesday, September 16! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:Degree Wellness Seacoast: A new all-on-one recovery center is coming to North Hampton, N.H! Learn more & lock in a discounted (FOR LIFE) founding membership here.Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Custom blinds, shades, and shutters! Reasonably priced and done right the first time.CHAPTERS:Introducing The Local Thread (00:00)Compromises in opening Mamma Luca (04:22)Why he wanted to become a chef (06:02)Moving to Italy to learn the art of pizza-making (10:30)What we misunderstand about making pizza (17:02)Working at Italian restaurants outside of NYC (18:20)Secure your founding membership at Degree Wellness Seacoast today! (22:18)Local blinds, shades & shutters at Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (23:55)Working in the Boston restaurant scene (25:16)Opening da LaPosta in Newton, Mass. (30:10)Why so many restaurants fail (37:10)Moving to New Hampshire (38:35)Finding a location for Mamma Luca (41:55)What he wanted Mamma Luca to be when he opened it (43:56)Becoming Portsmouth's go-to pizza location (46:36)Mamma Luca's expansive bar program (49:55)Favorite Mamma Luca menu item (52:20)The financials of owning a downtown Portsmouth restaurant (55:20)
Seacoast idol season 5 really brought some amazing talent to the stage. This years finalists were narrowed down to 3 very talented women: Olivia Avery, Jules Campion and Jordan Quinn. The extreme talents of these finalists really made it difficult for the high caliber judges: Karen Nascembetti, Donald Forrester and Sue Tabb. Listen in to find out the final results. You will even hear some great music from previous contestants who carved out some time to contribute to the show. Thanks you Gavin Marengi and Tyler Levs for sharing you musical talents. This celebrity filled event even had a special surprise guest donning his shiny Championship belt and promoting Fenways first ever fight event, Best of luck Charles "Boston Strong " Rosa. Ohhh,.... and of course the brains behind this whole event....... Francoix Simard. You are amazing and thank you for giving these talented artists a platform and multiple opportunities to shine bright.
Last night was the finals for Seacoast Idol - Kendra went and was sitting at the table with Sue's entourage of friends from Francis Drive!
Seacoast Idol creator Francois Simard and this years winner Jordan Quinn, were in studio talking about the incredible season and what's in store for next year!
Seacoast Idol winner Jordan Quinn performed LIVE on the air this morning --- and she did Whitney!
The future of New Hampshire is at stake.Luckily, brilliant young minds are on the case for building a better New Hampshire.In a rare roundtable discussion, popular past guests Corinne Benfield (Stay Work Play) and Andrew Samonas (Samonas Realty) join host Troy Farkas to discuss a number of topics, including the recent Portsmouth parking controversy and its effect on the local workforce, why a shortage of affordable childcare is causing big problems for families across the state, Gen Z's experience of navigating the workforce in the age of artificial intelligence, and how, weeks after a $16 million home sale in Hampton, the Seacoast's leaders are thinking about tackling the ongoing housing crisis.For more from Corinne's organization, you can follow Stay Work Play on Instagram @stayworkplay. To learn more about working with Samonas Realty, visit SamonasGroup.com.SUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.Visit the NEW SeacoastStories.com for our newsletter & LIMITED-TIME summer merch drop!UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: We're in Newburyport, Mass., on Wednesday, September 3. Book your seat at the table here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club pres. by Partners Bank: We return to Kittery, Maine, on Wednesday, September 16! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:Degree Wellness Seacoast: A new all-on-one recovery center is coming to North Hampton, N.H! Learn more & lock in a discounted (FOR LIFE) founding membership here.Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Custom blinds, shades, and shutters! Reasonably priced and done right the first time.CHAPTERS:Come to Seacoast Stories Dinner Club (00:00)Portsmouth parking controversy latest (00:40)Why residents pushed back against recent parking measures (06:15)Portsmouth parking hack for residents (08:45)A BIG WIN recently for addressing the childcare shortage in N.H. (09:36)How companies can help with childcare (14:25)N.H.'s "ass-backwards" way of addressing issues (18:00)Secure your founding membership at Degree Wellness Seacoast TODAY (25:27)How Gen Z is navigating the workplace (27:05)How N.H. can fight its "brand identity crisis" (32:00)Why N.H. is such an attractive state to live in (35:05)Get custom blinds made for your dream Seacoast home with Budget Blinds (46:40)Recent record home sales on the Seacoast (48:00)Three methods for addressing the Seacoast housing crisis (50:00)Why we're optimistic about New Hampshire's future (55:00)Why Seacoast Stories Dinner Club is so special (58:50)Stay Work's Plays upcoming events (01:00:30)
If you're looking for a fun night out with some entertainment-- come to Surfside at Salisbury Beach for the semi-finals of SEACOAST IDOL. Sue will be there along with her 20 person entourage!!
On top of the world, Brian Welch was being listened to by millions of heavy music listeners which meant millions of dollars in the bank. Fast-pace living, always on tour, but always high on meth. As a new dad, Brian wanted off his cycle and walked away from a $25 million record contract; but to get off the drugs, he would need a miracle. Joey and Brian talk a lot about “the rock star life,” both of their struggles with mental illness, contentment, and some theology in light of miracles and prayer. Lastly, Brian's cousin Scott Box wrote a book called “Heroic Disgrace,” a true story and reflections from a worship leader who struggles with bipolar disorder. This episode courtesy of Seacoast's Things You Won't Hear on Sunday Podcast. E-mail Joey here.Support Joey's work by Being a Patron / (Venmo)PWNA Theme Song by Stoy Prioleau (aka: Riggy Roc): Apple MusicClosing song by Derek Minor and other music by Mechanical River.
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, our Millennials and Gen-X group share their views on parenting, spanking, the necessity of a college education, what motivates them to determine a career, and whether our society has an unhealthy disposition toward safety. Our guests also have a little fun with music—can they identify the artists of popular songs from the other generations? Bios of our Millennial and Gen-X contributors: Amy AldermanAmy Alderman is a Mortgage Loan Closer at the best credit union in the state. She has been married to Dick Alderman for 20 years, and together they have two daughters, Abigail and Audrey. The Aldermans have been part of the Seacoast family for over 15 years. In her free time, Amy loves building puzzles — especially on Saturdays with her mom. She is deeply passionate about Biblical literacy and has been leading a women's Bible study since 2009.David SchirduanDavid Schirduan is a software engineer by day and a game designer by night, with an emotionally needy dog named Ori. He has attended Seacoast for over five years. In his free time, David reads sci-fi and fantasy novels in between rounds of video games. He also runs a small publishing company with eight books and counting. David once lived on a ship in Africa for over a year, and at age 35 made the bold decision to purchase his first-ever pair of sneakers — prior to that, it was strictly flip flops or dress shoes. He is believed to be the only David Schirduan on the planet. The others died under mysterious circumstances.Sean ScapellatoSean Scapellato is a former English and writing teacher who now practices law full-time — his former students having gotten old enough to make that transition feel right. He has been married to his extraordinary wife, Sara, for 33 years and has been attending Seacoast for over 25 years. They have two great kids, Nick and Maggie, ensuring the Scapellato name lives on. An avid reader and writer, Sean hopes one day to write thrillers. He is finally over his obsession with being a fusion drummer, and everyone in his life is grateful.Harmony ButlerHarmony Butler is a Veterinary Practice Coach who has been married to Myron Butler for going on 17 years. They have two kids, ages almost 20 and 12, and have been part of the Seacoast family since 2019. In her free time, Harmony loves watching movies, spending time with family, building her book collection, and being out in nature. She is passionate about singing, coaching, and veterinary medicine, and coaches businesses across nearly every state in the country. Harmony served in the military and enlisted at age 17. A lifelong vegetarian, she will — on rare and glorious occasions — give in to a craving for a Gwantley's chicken hot dog, without a shred of guilt. Before YouTube changed everything, she appeared in a local commercial that aired regularly in the early 2000s, teaching others to be an example of virtue.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
Lauren Atwood entered the world against all odds.Thirty-three years ago, the lifelong Seacoast native was born three months early as the product of an abusive relationship between her mother and biological father. In the ensuing years, Atwood bounced around from home to home, watched her mother bring home man after man, and became estranged from her real father, all while trying to live a normal life.But Atwood refused to become a statistic.After meeting her now-husband Chris in high school, Atwood paid her way through UNH, worked in marketing at Timberland, and started a successful blog that paved the way for Otter Creek Homes, the Seacoast's go-to construction & interior design company.From her office in North Hampton, N.H., Atwood joins host Troy Farkas for a wide-ranging conversation about the harrowing details surrounding her miraculous birth, why she was a "pawn in the game" between her mother and father, overcoming childhood trauma to build the business of her dreams, what sets Otter Creek Homes apart from other firms in the field, and the phone call she received last year that, for the first time in her life, made her feel free.If you or someone you know is fighting domestic and sexual violence here on the Seacoast, please find support with HAVEN.SUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Visit the NEW SeacoastStories.com for our newsletter & LIMITED-TIME summer merch drop!Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club pres. by Partners Bank: Our largest Dinner Club yet visits Portsmouth on Wednesday, August 19! Book your seat at the table here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: We're in Newburyport, Mass., on Wednesday, September 3. Book your seat at the link above.SPONSOR:Degree Wellness Seacoast: A new all-on-one recovery center is coming to North Hampton, N.H! Learn more & lock in a discounted (FOR LIFE) founding membership here.CHAPTERS:Lauren Atwood intro (00:00)Unbelievable story of when she was born (04:06)Her parents' abusive relationship (07:05)Being a medical miracle (10:00)Living in fear of her father (11:12)Tumultuous relationship with her mother (17:35)Legally separating from her father (23:52)The life-changing phone call she recently received (28:50)How she overcame her childhood (33:27)Her work with HAVEN (37:00)SPONSOR: Degree Wellness Seacoast. Secure your founding membership here Studying at UNH & working at Timberland (41:20)The fixer-upper home that inspired Otter Creek (45:45)What makes Otter Creek Homes different (47:10)How Otter Creek Homes took off (52:54)The BTS of working with Otter Creek Homes (55:52)What makes this work so fulfilling (58:55)Reflecting on her remarkable life story (01:00:30)Pushback against Otter Creek Homes? (01:03:50)Her relationship with her mother today (01:05:57)
It's the 200th episode of the Seacoast Sports Forum and it's a “notebook edition”with host Sherm Chester. Post season baseball continues for Seacoast teams. The Exeter 11 year old baseball team begins the Cal Ripken regional championships in Indiana…the Dover 12 year old Cal Ripken team is playing in Branson Mo. and the Portsmouth team enters the Little League World Series action with the hopes of going to Williamsport PA later this month. The talk shifts to the Red Sox and their incredible stretch of victories and the trade deadline deals. The “Two Minute Drill” highlights the special messages sent to the Exeter baseball team from local sports celebrities.
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, our Generation Z group share their views on parenting, spanking, the necessity of a college education, what motivates them to determine a career, and whether our society has an unhealthy disposition toward safety. Our guests also have a little fun with music—can they identify the artists of popular songs from the other generations? Bios of our Gen-Z contributors: Brandon AllonBrandon Allon has been a photographer for seven years, four of which have been with Seacoast. A third-generation photographer, he has also traveled to five countries outside the United States. Before photography, Brandon spent ten years in music — an experience that took him all the way to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Outside of his creative pursuits, he enjoys running and table tennis.Jordan Mae BazzleJordan Mae Bazzle is a sophomore in high school with a passion for fencing, playing the violin, building things, and Formula 1. She is currently working on building her own violin alongside her grandfather and plans to spend plenty of time at the beach this summer. Looking ahead, Jordan Mae hopes to study mechanical engineering in college and one day work with Formula 1 cars.Hayes HerlongHayes Herlong is a 24-year-old from Charleston with a love for Jesus, surfing, adventure, and her one-eyed cat. She is currently pursuing ministry through the Residency Program at Seacoast Church, where she serves in youth ministry and is passionate about helping middle and high school students know Jesus and grow in their faith — a community she has called home for many years.Hayes also has a deep heart for global missions, having served internationally in Haiti, Togo, and Zambia, as well as stateside in Orlando and New York City. She loves learning about new cultures, meeting new people, and stepping into experiences that stretch her faith. That adventurous spirit once led her to jump and swing off the 420-foot bridge at Victoria Falls. Whether serving students, traveling the world, or trying something completely new, Hayes hopes her love for the Lord, people, and adventure will continue leading her to places where she can share the Gospel — and maybe keep her mom just a little nervous along the way.Manuel LagunaManuel Laguna is a 24-year-old Audio, Video, and Lighting Systems Coordinator at Seacoast Church. He has been part of the Seacoast family for ten years and on staff for three. In his free time, Manuel enjoys playing music, cooking new recipes, and playing video games with his Seacoast family. He is deeply passionate about worship and faith-based music, loves tattoos and plans to get more (sorry, Abuela), and is a proud MexiRican — both Mexican and Puerto Rican. He credits his two parents as the best in the world (no arguments entertained) and has two sisters: one two-legged and one four-legged — a labradoodle he considers the best ever. An adventurer at heart, Manuel has been blessed to travel to many countries and is eager to keep exploring.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
She built a global fitness brand without investors, business degree, or plans for becoming an entrepreneur.When Eliza Shirazi graduated from UMass, she thought she'd spend her career working in public health. Fitness classes were simply a side hustle—a way to make a little extra money after work.Over the next decade, that side hustle became Kick It by Eliza, a kickboxing-inspired worldwide fitness community that has transformed thousands of lives through live events, instructor certifications, social media content to her 25,000 Instagram followers, online memberships, and partnerships/appearances with brands like New Balance, NBC's "The Today Show," POPSUGAR, and more.But as is often the case, things don't always appear as they seem.In this conversation with host Troy Farkas, Portsmouth's Shirazi opens up about the rejection that's shaped her, the sponsorship deal she lost just when everything seemed to be working, the imposter syndrome she felt training in the boxing ring with George Foreman's son, the nerves she felt before making the biggest media appearances of her life, and the terrifying uncertainty of watching the pandemic threaten everything she'd spent years building.This episode, which is presented by Degree Wellness Seacoast, is about much more than fitness. It's about betting on yourself before anyone else does, learning to separate your own dreams from everyone else's expectations, embracing rejection as a competitive advantage, and discovering that the biggest opportunities often arrive disguised as your worst setbacks.In this episode, you'll learn:Why losing her biggest sponsorship became the catalyst for her greatest growthHow George Foreman's son helped her overcome imposter syndromeThe surprising business lesson behind building a fiercely loyal communityHow one YouTube workout unexpectedly changed the trajectory of her careerWhat the pandemic taught her about resilience and reinventionThe simple goal-setting framework she uses to stay motivated during overwhelming seasonsWhy rejection is one of the most valuable assets an entrepreneur can haveTroubling health trends and why she refuses to lean into themSUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Visit the NEW SeacoastStories.com for our newsletter & LIMITED-TIME summer merch drop!Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Amesbury, Mass. on Wednesday, August 5, and back to Portsmouth on Wednesday, August 19! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:Degree Wellness Seacoast: A new all-on-one recovery center is coming to North Hampton, N.H! Learn more about becoming a founding member here.Budget Blinds of the Seacoast! Custom blinds, shades, and shutters reasonably priced and professionally installed.CHAPTERS:Introducing Eliza Shirazi (00:00)Working in public health (04:56)Instructing as a side hustle (06:15)Pursuing fitness full-time (09:16)Training boxing w/ George Foreman's son (10:25)Signing a deal with New Balance (13:40)The evolution of Kick It By Eliza (21:55)Asking New Balance for more money (26:10)The POPSUGAR video that blew her up (28:35)Full details on the Degree Wellness Seacoast founding membership (34:10)Check out Budget Blinds of the Seacoast to make your home more private (35:30)Changing her business during the pandemic (36:38)Navigating online criticism (41:35)The explosion of her virtual business (44:10)Appearing on The TODAY Show (47:12)Moving to Portsmouth in 2021 (52:20)The many revenue streams of her business (57:22)Advice for entrepreneurs in the early stages (01:01:18)Troubling health-and-wellness trends (01:03:10)
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, Boomers and Silent Generation group share their views on parenting, spanking, the necessity of a college education, what motivates them to determine a career, and whether our society has an unhealthy disposition toward safety. Our guests also have a little fun with music—can they identify the artists of popular songs from the other generations? Susan ChapmanSusan Chapman has been a part of Seacoast's Mount Pleasant Campus for ten years, where she and her husband Roy serve as table leaders at Next Steps and volunteer in the bookstore. Susan's passion is intercessory prayer — a calling that has shaped much of her life and the lives of those around her. Susan was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where she met Roy in high school. They married in 1965 and have built a rich life together over the past 60 years, rooted in faith, family, and friendship. They have two children — a son and a daughter — and warmly claim their son-in-law Joey as their own. Their two grandchildren are a delight: their grandson recently graduated from North Greenville University, and their granddaughter just graduated from middle school. It was in Decatur, Georgia, in the early 1970s that Susan's spiritual journey began to take deep root. Her time in Bible study and God's word brought about changes that were visible to everyone around her — including Roy, who began searching for what was behind them. Looking back, Susan can clearly see God's hand at work throughout her life. In 1977, the family relocated to the Philadelphia area, and once again God's provision was evident. Susan found a wonderful community of people there who remain among her closest and dearest friends to this day. After 28 years, she and Roy moved to Summerville in 2005, where they have been putting down roots ever since. One of Susan's great joys at Next Steps has been discovering just how small the world really is — the unexpected connections, the familiar faces from years past, the strangers who turn out to be anything but. She also treasures staying in touch with lifelong friends now scattered across seven states. In her free time, Susan enjoys reading, jigsaw puzzles, and time with family and friends. She and Roy are devoted University of Georgia football fans, and one of their favorite traditions is spending time at Litchfield Beach, a place they have returned to for over 50 years. When it comes to food, Susan's Southern spread says everything you need to know about her: summer squash, butter beans, tomatoes, iced tea, and optional fried chicken. She still remembers when her aunt's phone number was simply 2524 — before area codes existed — and when ten rolls of toilet paper cost a dollar. Susan Chapman is someone who remembers where she came from, holds tightly to the people she loves, and keeps showing up — in prayer, in service, and in life.Brian LewisBrian Lewis has been a pastor at Seacoast's Mount Pleasant campus for 11 years, leading Men's Ministry and Seniors Ministry. He has been married to Andrea for 32 years and has one daughter, Addison. Born, raised, and educated in Atlanta, Georgia — a Georgia Tech graduate — Brian is the youngest of five children, two of whom are now with the Lord. He has been part of the Seacoast family for 21 years.In his free time, Brian enjoys cooking, DIY projects, golf, travel, and music. Andrea describes him as a renaissance man — curious about everything and a true dabbler. He has visited 42 states and 6 continents, attended both Obama inaugurations with his family, and made seven trips to Kenya for global missions, with one trip to Honduras as well. Brian loves a good argument or debate, as long as it doesn't get too emotional, and will happily argue either side of an interesting topic.Joe RiddellJoe has been a part of the Seacoast family for 25 years. Lived in Charleston his whole life and a general contractor for 37 years. Married to Carol for 29 years, he has two kids ages 34 and 27 and two grandkids almost four and almost two. In his own words, he's Just a guy who loves Jesus, loves his family and loves his church. Sandy StaffordSandy Stafford is a retired art teacher who spent 40 years at James Island Charter High School before retiring in 2020. She has two grown sons and a thirteen-year-old granddaughter, and became a member of Seacoast at the James Island campus. In her free time, Sandy enjoys traveling, nature walks, and all types of art-making. She has a particular passion for researching and visiting southern "Chapels of Ease," photographing these historic sites as references for her drawings and paintings. Sandy is also deeply drawn to the American Southwest — especially New Mexico — where she loves traveling less-known highways to visit Southwest Mission Churches. She hopes to walk a pilgrimage next Easter to Santuario de Chimayo along the "High Road" from Taos to Santa Fe.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
How does a tiny, hidden cocktail bar with no sign, no advertising, and (almost) no rules become one of the most beloved institutions in a city's history?Cresta Smith, the co-founder of the legendary bar The Red Door, joins host Troy Farkas this week to discuss the iconic Portsmouth speakeasy that shaped an entire generation of nightlife (and espresso martini lovers) on the Seacoast.From opening night in 2003 to her departure in 2014 and the bar's closure in 2017, Smith reveals the untold story of building a business entirely on instinct and word of mouth. She shares how a chance conversation with restaurateur Jay McSharry changed her life, why she refused to put a sign on the building, the secret behind their famous espresso martinis, and how The Red Door became the place everyone ended their night.But beneath the success was another story.The pressure of running one of Portsmouth's busiest bars... the mental toll of always being "on"... the temptations that came with success... and the unlikely companion that ultimately saved her.This isn't just the story of a bar.It's about ambition, identity, addiction to momentum, knowing when to let go, and why the places we remember most are often impossible to recreate.IN THIS EPISODE:Why The Red Door never needed a sign or advertisingThe business philosophy that's made Jay McSharry so successfulHow Portsmouth transformed into a nationally recognized food destinationThe secret behind The Red Door's legendary espresso martinisBuilding a cult following before social media existedThe hidden cost of success and burnoutThe dog that changed Cresta's life foreverWhy some places become legends—and why they can never truly come backCHAPTERS:(00:00) Portsmouth's Foodie Boom(01:02) Jumpin Jays Changes Game(02:06) Jay McSherry Playbook(08:48) The Red Door Origins(11:52) Designing Speakeasy Vibe(14:35) No Signs, No Advertising(18:12) Getting Through Loopholes(28:55) Big Musical Acts Who Performed There(32:00) The Physical & Mental Toll of The Red Door(34:20) The Dog Who Saved Her(36:45) SPONSORS: Budget Blinds + JOBTALK LLC(39:40) The Red Door's Famous Espresso Martinis(44:20) Leaving For New York City(50:00) How Portsmouth Has ChangedSUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Visit the NEW SeacoastStories.com for our newsletter & LIMITED-TIME summer merch drop!Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every week.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Amesbury, Mass. on Wednesday, August 5, and back to Portsmouth on Wednesday, August 19! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:Budget Blinds of the Seacoast! Custom blinds, shades, and shutters reasonably priced and professionally installed.JOBTALK LLC! Get 50% off JOBTALK Academy courses with the code "SEACOASTSTORIES50" for the rest of 2026!
Season 5 is underway! Seacoast idol, a New England based competition has started and has brought together 11 incredibly talented artists all fighting for the #1 spot. Check out Seacoast Idol as well as each individual artist to be wowed with talent. Be sure to follow along and see who makes it to the top spot! This years artists are @paige.oxley @jamesstarkmusic @livpsings JuliaCampion @justinfedericomusic @hunter_mckinnon @imkris.ten @miriahdelage EmmersonCarracedo @jordan_quinn_music and @jonnydeups
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, our Generation Z group discusses polarity in the church, optimism (or lack of) for unity, whether society is less racist today compared to generations before, whether they consider themselves patriotic, and if they see the USA as a Christian nation. Brandon AllonBrandon Allon has been a photographer for seven years, four of which have been with Seacoast. A third-generation photographer, he has also traveled to five countries outside the United States. Before photography, Brandon spent ten years in music — an experience that took him all the way to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Outside of his creative pursuits, he enjoys running and table tennis.Laela GriffinLaela Griffin is a recent high school graduate living in a small mountain town in North Carolina. She loves the outdoors, serving others, and traveling, and plans to attend Appalachian State University next year to major in Business. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Laela is so passionate about root beer that she once crashed her car over it.Hayes HerlongHayes Herlong is a 24-year-old from Charleston with a love for Jesus, surfing, adventure, and her one-eyed cat. She is currently pursuing ministry through the Residency Program at Seacoast Church, where she serves in youth ministry and is passionate about helping middle and high school students know Jesus and grow in their faith — a community she has called home for many years.Hayes also has a deep heart for global missions, having served internationally in Haiti, Togo, and Zambia, as well as stateside in Orlando and New York City. She loves learning about new cultures, meeting new people, and stepping into experiences that stretch her faith. That adventurous spirit once led her to jump and swing off the 420-foot bridge at Victoria Falls. Whether serving students, traveling the world, or trying something completely new, Hayes hopes her love for the Lord, people, and adventure will continue leading her to places where she can share the Gospel — and maybe keep her mom just a little nervous along the way.Abel WaltersAbel Walters is an 18-year-old rising senior at Palmetto Christian Academy and a recent graduate of 412 Leadership at Seacoast, where he now serves primarily on the prayer team and the teaching team in Custom. He has a passion for mission and ministry that he feels God has placed on his heart. Abel has played basketball all four years of high school, including travel ball, and also loves golf. His music taste skews older than his years — something his younger brothers don't quite understand yet.Abel is the oldest of four boys and the third of seven children overall. He's a big-time movie lover who will happily spend hours making the case for why The Amazing Spider-Man 2 came remarkably close to being one of the greatest superhero movies ever made. He also loves to travel and surf, and is likely the family member most enthusiastic about an impromptu trip — even when the rest of the family finds it slightly miserable.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
Laura Fox needed a change.Late last year, at our 3S Artspace live podcast, the Foxglove lead singer and Maine Fox Marketing founder announced that she'd booked a one-way trip to Mexico, with no plans for anything besides returning just in time to record her first in-studio album in May. Seven months later, in another edition of "The Follow-Up" where we speak to popular past guests, Fox joins host Troy Farkas to reveal what she learned about herself from the three-month trip to Mexico. Plus, Fox previews Foxglove's upcoming performance at Prescott Park, and she takes us inside the recording process for upcoming first album, Maybe A Daydream. She also SOUNDS OFF on musicians using AI in the songwriting process, and the Seacoast lifer also explains why locals are so critical of newbies who move to the Seacoast.To learn more about Fox's upcoming performances, visit LauraFoxMusic.com.CHAPTERS:Recapping her Mexico trip & lessons learned (00:00)Achieving a lifelong musical dream (14:38)Inside the process of recording her first album (19:42)SPONSOR: Investment advisor David Higgins (27:40)The tricky part of writing songs about past relationships (29:37)Why it's "unethical" to use AI for songwriting (36:20)Will the AI train ever slow down? (46:15)SPONSOR: JOBTALK LLC (53:08)Why Seacoast locals are hesitant to accept newcomers (54:45)SUPPORT SEACOAST STORIES:Visit the NEW SeacoastStories.com for our newsletter & LIMITED-TIME summer merch drop!Follow Seacoast Stories on Apple Podcasts or on Spotify to get our new episodes every weekUPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Amesbury, Mass. on Wednesday, August 5, and back to Portsmouth on Wednesday, August 19! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:David Higgins: To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.JOBTALK LLC: Get 50% off JOBTALK Academy courses with the code "SEACOASTSTORIES50" for the rest of 2026!Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, our Boomers group discusses polarity in the church, optimism (or lack of) for unity, whether society is less racist today compared to generations before, whether they consider themselves patriotic, and if they see the USA as a Christian nation. Susan ChapmanSusan Chapman has been a part of Seacoast's Mount Pleasant Campus for ten years, where she and her husband Roy serve as table leaders at Next Steps and volunteer in the bookstore. Susan's passion is intercessory prayer — a calling that has shaped much of her life and the lives of those around her. Susan was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where she met Roy in high school. They married in 1965 and have built a rich life together over the past 60 years, rooted in faith, family, and friendship. They have two children — a son and a daughter — and warmly claim their son-in-law John as their own. Their two grandchildren are a delight: their grandson recently graduated from North Greenville University, and their granddaughter just graduated from middle school. It was in Decatur, Georgia, in the early 1970s that Susan's spiritual journey began to take deep root. Her time in Bible study and God's word brought about changes that were visible to everyone around her — including Roy, who began searching for what was behind them. Looking back, Susan can clearly see God's hand at work throughout her life. In 1977, the family relocated to the Philadelphia area, and once again God's provision was evident. Susan found a wonderful community of people there who remain among her closest and dearest friends to this day. After 28 years, she and Roy moved to Summerville in 2005, where they have been putting down roots ever since. One of Susan's great joys at Next Steps has been discovering just how small the world really is — the unexpected connections, the familiar faces from years past, the strangers who turn out to be anything but. She also treasures staying in touch with lifelong friends now scattered across seven states. In her free time, Susan enjoys reading, jigsaw puzzles, and time with family and friends. She and Roy are devoted University of Georgia football fans, and one of their favorite traditions is spending time at Litchfield Beach, a place they have returned to for over 50 years. When it comes to food, Susan's Southern spread says everything you need to know about her: summer squash, butter beans, tomatoes, iced tea, and optional fried chicken. She still remembers when her aunt's phone number was simply 2524 — before area codes existed — and when ten rolls of toilet paper cost a dollar. Susan Chapman is someone who remembers where she came from, holds tightly to the people she loves, and keeps showing up — in prayer, in service, and in life.Brian LewisBrian Lewis has been a pastor at Seacoast's Mount Pleasant campus for 11 years, leading Men's Ministry and Seniors Ministry. He has been married to Andrea for 32 years and has one daughter, Addison. Born, raised, and educated in Atlanta, Georgia — a Georgia Tech graduate — Brian is the youngest of five children, two of whom are now with the Lord. He has been part of the Seacoast family for 21 years.In his free time, Brian enjoys cooking, DIY projects, golf, travel, and music. Andrea describes him as a renaissance man — curious about everything and a true dabbler. He has visited 42 states and 6 continents, attended both Obama inaugurations with his family, and made seven trips to Kenya for global missions, with one trip to Honduras as well. Brian loves a good argument or debate, as long as it doesn't get too emotional, and will happily argue either side of an interesting topic.Joe RiddellJoe has been a part of the Seacoast family for 25 years. Lived in Charleston his whole life and a general contractor for 37 years. Married to Carol for 29 years, he has two kids ages 34 and 27 and two grandkids almost four and almost two. In his own words, he's Just a guy who loves Jesus, loves his family and loves his church. Sandy StaffordSandy Stafford is a retired art teacher who spent 40 years at James Island Charter High School before retiring in 2020. She has two grown sons and a thirteen-year-old granddaughter, and became a member of Seacoast at the James Island campus. In her free time, Sandy enjoys traveling, nature walks, and all types of art-making. She has a particular passion for researching and visiting southern "Chapels of Ease," photographing these historic sites as references for her drawings and paintings. Sandy is also deeply drawn to the American Southwest — especially New Mexico — where she loves traveling less-known highways to visit Southwest Mission Churches. She hopes to walk a pilgrimage next Easter to Santuario de Chimayo along the "High Road" from Taos to Santa Fe.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, our Millennials and Gen-X group discusses polarity in the church, optimism (or lack of) for unity, whether society is less racist today compared to generations before, whether they consider themselves patriotic, and if they see the USA as a Christian nation. Bios of our Millennial and Gen-X contributors: Amy AldermanAmy Alderman is a Mortgage Loan Closer at the best credit union in the state. She has been married to Dick Alderman for 20 years, and together they have two daughters, Abigail and Audrey. The Aldermans have been part of the Seacoast family for over 15 years. In her free time, Amy loves building puzzles — especially on Saturdays with her mom. She is deeply passionate about Biblical literacy and has been leading a women's Bible study since 2009.David SchirduanDavid Schirduan is a software engineer by day and a game designer by night, with an emotionally needy dog named Ori. He has attended Seacoast for over five years. In his free time, David reads sci-fi and fantasy novels in between rounds of video games. He also runs a small publishing company with eight books and counting. David once lived on a ship in Africa for over a year, and at age 35 made the bold decision to purchase his first-ever pair of sneakers — prior to that, it was strictly flip flops or dress shoes. He is believed to be the only David Schirduan on the planet. The others died under mysterious circumstances.Sean ScapellatoSean Scapellato is a former English and writing teacher who now practices law full-time — his former students having gotten old enough to make that transition feel right. He has been married to his extraordinary wife, Sara, for 33 years and has been attending Seacoast for over 25 years. They have two great kids, Nick and Maggie, ensuring the Scapellato name lives on. An avid reader and writer, Sean hopes one day to write thrillers. He is finally over his obsession with being a fusion drummer, and everyone in his life is grateful.Brittany SparkleBrittany Sparkle has called Charleston home for over 20 years. After majoring in Theatre at College of Charleston, she launched a radio career that has taken her to the airwaves of 95SX and Classic Hits 96.9, where she currently works as a DJ. She loves all things entertainment — music, acting, writing, and especially being on the air. On weekends, you'll find Sparkle at concerts and live music events with friends, volunteering at Seacoast Church, and spending time with family. When she's not working, she's traveling and hunting down the next "you won't believe this" moment.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
Chad Coll just wanted to be an artist.A lax bro from Maryland without any dreams beyond that, Coll moved to the Seacoast in 2009 after joining the Coast Guard. From there, he fell in love with the area, and when his Coast Guard stint ended, he pursued a variety of jobs and hobbies that all involved making things with his hands, including making wooden spoons.Despite making these spoons for 10 years, he only started selling his wooden spoons two years ago at farmer's markets in Charlottesville, V.A., where he lived for five years.But when he moved his family back to the Seacoast last year, that's when things started to take off - mainly due to C.S. Spoon Co.'s OVERWHELMING success on social media.Today, C.S. Spoon Co. has 29,000 followers on Instagram and nearly an additional 10,000 on TikTok, and social media is by far and away the biggest driver of business for the Kittery-based small family business.From his woodworking studio in Kittery, M.E., Coll joins host Troy Farkas to discuss the explosion of the brand in 2026, why he focuses on only making wooden spoons, the inspiration behind his viral social media videos, how these spoons sell out every week, and how this business is finally allowing Coll to live the life he's always dreamt of.To shop C.S. Spoon & Co. merch and to be first in the queue for their weekly restocks, you can visit their web site here.CHAPTERS:Chad's early artistic ambitions (00:00)How & why he started a wooden spoon business (08:00)Leaving the Seacoast and coming back (25:21)SPONSORS: JOBTALK LLC & Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (28:25)How his business has exploded since moving back to Maine (31:18)Why he's more content than he's ever been (51:52)What makes his wooden spoons special (01:03:40)SPONSORS: JOBTALK LLC: Get 50% off JOBTALK Academy courses with the code "SEACOASTSTORIES50" for the rest of 2026!Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Keep the Seacoast sun out of your home! Get the deets here.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Newmarket, N.H. on Friday, July 17 & Amesbury, Mass. on Wednesday, August 5! Book your seat at the table here before they sell out.SUBSCRIBE:Seacoast Stories on YouTube for weekly videosSeacoast Stories on Substack for weekly newsletters and Seacoast news
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, the Boomers group talks about technology, social media, personal phone use, when kids should access social media, AI, and concerns about all the above. Bios of our Boomers and Silent Generation Contributors:Roy and Susan ChapmanRoy and Susan Chapman have been married for 60 years and share a rich life built on faith, family, and friendship. Susan was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where she met Roy in high school. After Roy attended the University of Georgia and Georgia State University, they married in 1965. They have two children — a son and a daughter — and warmly claim their son-in-law John as their own. Their two grandchildren are amazing and delightful: their grandson recently graduated from North Greenville University, and their granddaughter just graduated from middle school.Roy began his career in insurance after marriage, completing his degree at night from Georgia State University. They purchased their first home in Decatur, Georgia, in 1971 — and it was there that their spiritual journey truly took root. Roy began noticing profound changes in Susan through her Bible studies and time in God's word, changes that led him to start searching for what was behind them. Looking back, both Roy and Susan can clearly see God's hand on their lives.In 1977, Roy's employer asked him to relocate to the home office in Philadelphia. After much prayer, they accepted the move — and once again witnessed God's provision, finding a wonderful community of people in New Jersey who remain among their closest and dearest friends to this day. They lived in the area for 28 years before moving to Summerville in 2005, where Roy has continued working in the insurance industry with the company he founded when they arrived.Roy and Susan have been attending Seacoast's Mount Pleasant Campus for ten years, where they serve as table leaders at Next Steps and volunteer in the bookstore. Roy's passion is meeting new people through the church and finding ways to serve them. Susan's passion is intercessory prayer.In their free time, both enjoy reading, jigsaw puzzles, and time with family and friends. They are devoted University of Georgia football fans and enjoy other sports as well. One of their favorite traditions is spending time at Litchfield Beach, a place they have returned to for over 50 years. Susan also treasures staying in touch with lifelong friends now scattered across seven states.A few fun notes: Roy's favorite food is a chili dog from Atlanta's iconic drive-in, The Varsity — though good pulled pork barbecue and a proper Southern meal (cornbread included) are never far behind. Susan's Southern spread of summer squash, butter beans, tomatoes, iced tea, and optional fried chicken runs a close second. One of the joys of serving at Next Steps has been discovering just how small the world really is — Roy and Susan have repeatedly been surprised to cross paths with people they knew years ago, or to find unexpected shared connections with the strangers who walk through the door. Susan still remembers when her aunt's phone number was simply 2524, before area codes existed, and when ten rolls of toilet paper cost a dollar.Brian LewisBrian Lewis has been a pastor at Seacoast's Mount Pleasant campus for 11 years, leading Men's Ministry and Seniors Ministry. He has been married to Andrea for 32 years and has one daughter, Addison. Born, raised, and educated in Atlanta, Georgia — a Georgia Tech graduate — Brian is the youngest of five children, two of whom are now with the Lord. He has been part of the Seacoast family for 21 years.In his free time, Brian enjoys cooking, DIY projects, golf, travel, and music. Andrea describes him as a renaissance man — curious about everything and a true dabbler. He has visited 42 states and 6 continents, attended both Obama inaugurations with his family, and made seven trips to Kenya for global missions, with one trip to Honduras as well. Brian loves a good argument or debate, as long as it doesn't get too emotional, and will happily argue either side of an interesting topic.Joe RiddellJoe has been a part of the Seacoast family for 25 years. Lived in Charleston his whole life and a general contractor for 37 years. Married to Carol for 29 years, he has two kids ages 34 and 27 and two grandkids almost four and almost two. In his own words, he's Just a guy who loves Jesus, loves his family and loves his church. Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
***TRIGGER WARNING*** This podcast contains discussion of suicide. Listener discretion is advised.It's a miracle that Victoria Arlen is still here.Before the age of 10, she entered into a vegetative state after getting diagnosed with two rare neurodegenerative diseases. From there, the Exeter, N.H. native lived incapacitated for four years, with doctors and nurses instructing Arlen's parents to accept that their daughter wouldn't live much longer.Then, on a day that continues to baffle medical professionals everywhere, she emerged from this state. And since then, against all odds, she's taken the world by storm in the form of gold medals at the 2012 Paralympic Games, a run on ABC's Dancing With The Stars, a stellar motivational speaking career, a 10-year tenure as an anchor for ESPN, and now, a two-time author. The 31-year-old's most recent book, The View Is Worth It, published in the spring, and it's her firsthand account of how she's navigated anxiety, depression, and the weight of expectations placed upon her when she was asked to be hero without ever having worn a cape.From The Unmuted Room in Newington, N.H., Arlen joins host Troy Farkas for a wide-ranging discussion about Arlen's Seacoast roots, the experience of being "locked in" to her body for four years, the abuse she experienced at the hands of doctors and nurses, and how she miraculously emerged from the state.Plus, how she became the youngest on-air talent in ESPN history, her stint on DWTS, and the lengthy battle with mental health issues that inspired her latest book, and, in 2021, nearly led her to take her own life.CHAPTERS: Victoria's favorite Seacoast hangs (00:00)Spending four years in a vegetative state (10:37)Getting abused by doctors & nurses (31:06)SPONSOR: JOBTALK LLC (35:25)Learning how to live a normal life again (37:05)Winning gold at the 2012 Paralympics (40:50)The mental health toll of success & suicide attempt (48:53)Victoria's favorite tips & tricks for navigating mental health (01:06:36)SPONSOR: Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (01:19:05)DWTS appearance & becoming an ESPN anchor (01:20:20)SPONSORS: JOBTALK LLC: Get 50% off JOBTALK Academy courses with the code "SEACOASTSTORIES50" for the rest of 2026!Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Keep the Seacoast sun out of your home! Get the deets here.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Newmarket, N.H. on Friday, July 17 & Amesbury, Mass. on Wednesday, August 5! Book your seat at the table here before they sell out.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
Mornings With Max! Alternates:The Housing Bill Everyone's Talking About — What It Actually Means for YouNew Housing Bill Explained: The "Veto" That Isn't Really a VetoBiggest Housing Bill in a Generation Just Passed — Here's What's In ItDescriptionCongress just passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act — the largest housing affordability bill in a generation — and President Trump canceled the signing. So is it dead? Not quite. In this episode of Morning with Max, I break down what's actually in the bill, why the "veto" isn't really a veto, and what it means (and doesn't mean) for buyers and sellers here on the New Hampshire Seacoast.What we cover:The 3 big provisions — the corporate investor ban, manufactured home changes, and federal incentives to buildWhy canceling a signing isn't the same as a veto — and how a bill can become law without a signatureWhat this actually changes for your buying or selling decision in NH, ME & RI (and what it doesn't)If you're trying to make sense of the headlines and what they mean for your next move, this is the clear, no-spin breakdown.
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, the Millennials and Gen-X group talks about technology, social media, personal phone use, when kids should access social media, AI, and concerns about all the above. Bios of our Millennial and Gen-X contributors: Amy AldermanAmy Alderman is a Mortgage Loan Closer at the best credit union in the state. She has been married to Dick Alderman for 20 years, and together they have two daughters, Abigail and Audrey. The Aldermans have been part of the Seacoast family for over 15 years. In her free time, Amy loves building puzzles — especially on Saturdays with her mom. She is deeply passionate about Biblical literacy and has been leading a women's Bible study since 2009.David SchirduanDavid Schirduan is a software engineer by day and a game designer by night, with an emotionally needy dog named Ori. He has attended Seacoast for over five years. In his free time, David reads sci-fi and fantasy novels in between rounds of video games. He also runs a small publishing company with eight books and counting. David once lived on a ship in Africa for over a year, and at age 35 made the bold decision to purchase his first-ever pair of sneakers — prior to that, it was strictly flip flops or dress shoes. He is believed to be the only David Schirduan on the planet. The others died under mysterious circumstances.Sean ScapellatoSean Scapellato is a former English and writing teacher who now practices law full-time — his former students having gotten old enough to make that transition feel right. He has been married to his extraordinary wife, Sara, for 33 years and has been attending Seacoast for over 25 years. They have two great kids, Nick and Maggie, ensuring the Scapellato name lives on. An avid reader and writer, Sean hopes one day to write thrillers. He is finally over his obsession with being a fusion drummer, and everyone in his life is grateful.Brittany "Sparkle" Anderson "Sparkle" Anderson has called Charleston home for over 20 years. After majoring in Theatre at College of Charleston, she launched a radio career that has taken her to the airwaves of 95SX and Classic Hits 96.9, where she currently works as a DJ. She loves all things entertainment — music, acting, writing, and especially being on the air. On weekends, you'll find Sparkle at concerts and live music events with friends, volunteering at Seacoast Church, and spending time with family. When she's not working, she's traveling and hunting down the next "you won't believe this" moment.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
The Ogunquit Playhouse is not just some theater on the side of the road in Ogunquit, Maine.Every summer for the last 93 years, this "little white box" in one of New England's most eclectic cultural hubs has played home to world premieres of global theatrical sensations, many of which later make their way to the stages of Broadway and London's famed West End. The actors and actresses whom Ogunquit attracts have shelves filled with Tony Awards, ditto for the world-class behind-the-scenes crew members. And perhaps best of all, its $18M annual operating budget allows the Playhouse to pay above-average wages to talented artists in a field notorious for failing to provide a meaningful living.And now, as the Playhouse inches closer to its 100th season on the Seacoast, the not-for-profit entertainment venue has its eyes on the next century, and how the theater can adapt to survive an increasingly difficult artistic climate.From the historic main stage of The Ogunquit Playhouse, Technical Director Geof Dolan (20 years) and Executive Artistic Director Brad Kenney (21 years) sit down with host Troy Farkas to discuss the origins of the summer theater in America, how the Playhouse established itself as a world leader in theater, the caliber of talent they attract every summer, how they choose which shows to put on each year, what the Playhouse means to the Seacoast, the theater's ambitious plans for the next century, and more.For their full summer schedule, please visit OgunquitPlayhouse.org for more details.CHAPTERS:The decorated 93-year history of The Ogunquit Playhouse (00:00)Why Ogunquit Playhouse is an anomaly in the theater industry (16:00)Does the Seacoast understand just how world-class the Playhouse is? (21:48)SPONSOR: Avery Insurance (25:31)Selecting the shows (27:15)Who attends The Ogunquit Playhouse? (32:28)How The Ogunquit Playhouse attracts its performers (38:14)20 years of memories working at The Ogunquit Playhouse (49:46)The future of The Ogunquit Playhouse (57:54)SPONSORS:Avery Insurance: Protecting Portsmouth families since 1899. Learn more at averyinsurance.net.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Singles (Ages 25-45): Ready to meet the love of your life, or know someone who is? We're bringing the Seacoast's No. 1 dating show to The Press Room THIS Saturday, June 27! Snag your tickets here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Newmarket, N.H. on Friday, July 17! Book your seat at the table here before they sell out.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
The world is burning down.At least, that's what the modern media landscape convinces you into thinking. But what if there were a different way to present the news? What if, instead of focusing on all the negative, we actually celebrated the thousands of milestones and mini-victories happening each and every day?Andy DeMeo asked himself that question two years ago. Then, he founded Granite Goodness - a podcast, newsletter, social media brand, and fast-growing media company dedicated to telling the good news that's happening across all of New England.His work with Granite Goodness garnered DeMeo the 2025 Stay Work Play Young Person of the Year award, the 2025 Catapult Seacoast 10 to Watch award, and NH Union Leader 40 Under 40 award. He travels across New Hampshire, hosting panels and leading talks where he shouts from the rooftops about just how good the world actually is, and why we should all be more optimistic about the state of things.In this Season 5 launch week bonus episode, DeMeo FINALLY joins host Troy Farkas - exactly two years after they launched their own platforms on THE SAME DAY - for a conversation about the ethos driving Granite Goodness, how DeMeo stumbled into the world of "progress journalism," some very positive recent stories in New Hampshire and Maine, and how he's managed to turn Granite Goodness from hobby into a full-time career.To join the Optimists Club, visit GraniteGoodness.com for details.CHAPTERS:Andy DeMeo's accomplished resume (00:00)Do Troy and Andy hate each other? (03:35)The tricky dance of turning a newsletter into a full-time job (10:24)SPONSORS: Avery Insurance & Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (27:30)Focusing on good news in a "broken" modern media landscape (29:51)WILD good news happening in N.H. and Maine (42:02)Reflecting on the growth and success of Granite Goodness (49:05)UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Singles (Ages 25-45): Ready to meet the love of your life, or know someone who is? We're bringing the Seacoast's No. 1 dating show to The Press Room on Saturday, June 27. Snag your tickets here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Newmarket, N.H. on Friday, July 17! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:Avery Insurance: Protecting Portsmouth families since 1899. Learn more at averyinsurance.net.Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Keep the Seacoast sun out of your home! Get the deets here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
In this special 9-week series, listeners will hear from three different groups—GenX paired with Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers with a mix of the Silent Generation. Their conversations cover a variety of topics including technology, unity in the Church, racism, and parenting. Grouped by similar ages, these 12 individuals share their unique views, opinions, and convictions based on their generational upbringing and views of the world. Ranging from ages 16 to 81, we're covering 5 different generations with 16 different guests.In this episode, Generation Z Group talks about technology, social media, personal phone use, when kids should access social media, AI, and concerns about all the above. Bios of our Gen-Z contributors: Brandon AllonBrandon Allon has been a photographer for seven years, four of which have been with Seacoast. A third-generation photographer, he has also traveled to five countries outside the United States. Before photography, Brandon spent ten years in music — an experience that took him all the way to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Outside of his creative pursuits, he enjoys running and table tennis.Laela GriffinLaela Griffin is a recent high school graduate living in a small mountain town in North Carolina. She loves the outdoors, serving others, and traveling, and plans to attend Appalachian State University next year to major in Business. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Laela is so passionate about root beer that she once crashed her car over it.Hayes HerlongHayes Herlong is a 24-year-old from Charleston with a love for Jesus, surfing, adventure, and her one-eyed cat. She is currently pursuing ministry through the Residency Program at Seacoast Church, where she serves in youth ministry and is passionate about helping middle and high school students know Jesus and grow in their faith — a community she has called home for many years.Hayes also has a deep heart for global missions, having served internationally in Haiti, Togo, and Zambia, as well as stateside in Orlando and New York City. She loves learning about new cultures, meeting new people, and stepping into experiences that stretch her faith. That adventurous spirit once led her to jump and swing off the 420-foot bridge at Victoria Falls. Whether serving students, traveling the world, or trying something completely new, Hayes hopes her love for the Lord, people, and adventure will continue leading her to places where she can share the Gospel — and maybe keep her mom just a little nervous along the way.Abel WaltersAbel Walters is an 18-year-old rising senior at Palmetto Christian Academy and a recent graduate of 412 Leadership at Seacoast, where he now serves primarily on the prayer team and the teaching team in Custom. He has a passion for mission and ministry that he feels God has placed on his heart. Abel has played basketball all four years of high school, including travel ball, and also loves golf. His music taste skews older than his years — something his younger brothers don't quite understand yet.Abel is the oldest of four boys and the third of seven children overall. He's a big-time movie lover who will happily spend hours making the case for why The Amazing Spider-Man 2 came remarkably close to being one of the greatest superhero movies ever made. He also loves to travel and surf, and is likely the family member most enthusiastic about an impromptu trip — even when the rest of the family finds it slightly miserable.Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
Today we talk to one of the leading high-end home builders on the Seacoast about his custom residential and commercial work, and why community involvement is central to his company's identity. To learn more about Auger, click here.
Cure is a top-rated restaurant serving upscale comfort food in downtown Portmsouth, N.H., and now the visionary behind one of the Seacoast's most beloved establishments is setting her sights on something even bigger and better.Julie Cutting-Kelley is the owner and executive chef at Cure. A lifelong Seacoast native, she's also the co-owner of Emerald Elevation (a chef-inspired cannabis company), mother of two, Lighthouse Credit Union board member, and the owner and executive chef of a new Portsmouth restaurant, a modern steakhouse entitled Char.In the Season 5 premiere of "Seacoast Stories," Cutting-Kelley sits down with host Troy Farkas to spill the beans on Char, what it will look and feel like, the menu, expected open date, and why she feels Portsmouth is missing a place like this.Plus, she takes us behind-the-scenes of building Cure, her multiple appearances on the Food Network, and more.To learn more about Char, you can follow their new instagram page @charportsmouth.CHAPTERS:Julie Cutting-Kelley's background (00:00)All of the details for Char! (11:10)SPONSORS: Avery Insurance + Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (29:05)Working in the Seacoast restaurant scene prior to opening Cure (31:18)Appearing on Food Network's "Cutthroat Kitchen" (37:18)How Cure has become a beloved Portsmouth restaurant for over a decade (41:12)Emerald Elevation, her business venture with her chef husband (55:41)UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Singles (Ages 25-45): Ready to meet the love of your life, or know someone who is? We're bringing the Seacoast's No. 1 dating show to The Press Room on Saturday, June 27. Snag your tickets here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Newmarket, N.H. on Friday, July 17! Book your seat at the table here.SPONSORS:Avery Insurance: Protecting Portsmouth families since 1899. Learn more at averyinsurance.net.Budget Blinds of the Seacoast: Keep the Seacoast sun out of your home! Get the deets here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
Host Troy Farkas quickly takes you inside the past, present, and future of the 21st century media organization that's taking over New Hampshire and Maine.To stay up-to-date on all of our podcasts, events, and newsletters, you can follow along here ⬇️Follow the "Seacoast Stories" podcast on SpotifyFollow the "Seacoast Stories" podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow the "Seacoast Stories" podcast on YouTubeSubscribe to the "Seacoast Stories" newsletter on SubstackVisit SeacoastStories.com to learn more about our signature eventsABOUT THE HOST:Troy Farkas spent seven years producing high-performing podcasts for major media organizations like ESPN, The Ringer/Spotify, HBO, and more. After moving to the Seacoast in 2023, he fell in love with the area and it's inspiring people. He started this show to learn more about these people, and to bring the Seacoast closer together one podcast at a time.
In the final week off before the launch of Season 5, we replay one of the very first episodes of the "Seacoast Stories" podcast.Nick Callas is a New York City-based comedian who has toured with famous comedians Bryan Callen and Chris D'elia. With over 56,000 followers on Instagram, the star of the "Wolf Pup" comedy special joins host Troy Farkas to look back on Callas' 2024 performance at The Music Hall Lounge in Portsmouth. Plus, the two type 1 diabetics discuss Callas' approach to comedy, the art of adapting on the fly, how to joke about politics in a polarized world, and more.For more from Callas, you can catch him live THIS THURSDAY (June 11, 2026) at The Comedy Studio in Cambridge, Mass. Tickets here.UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: June 17 in Hampton, N.H. Sign up here.Seacoast Singles (25-45) at The Press Room! On Saturday, June 27, 16 brave singles will stand on stage in a room full of single folks. It's hilarious, wholesome, and (single or not) we'd love to see you there. Buy your ticket here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: July 17 in Newmarket, N.H. Sign up here.SPONSORS:Visit Budget Blinds of the Seacoast for local windows, shades, & creating your cozy Seacoast dream home!AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
The NHIAA tournament season hits high gear with semifinal action coming up in baseball….softball and boys and girls lacrosse. Jay Pinsonnault joins Sherm to review stunning upsets in baseball and to look ahead to an exciting finish for all the other Seacoast teams looking to take home the championship title. You can read Jay's sports columns at seacoastonline.com
[This episode originally aired on August 20th of 2024][Watch this on YouTube]Seacoast Church was started in 1988 by Pastor Greg and Debbie Surratt who moved from Illinois to Charleston, SC in 1987 with their four kids, Jason, Josh, Jessica, and Jenny. Early on, their family endured life-threatening hardship—two of the kids surviving a massive car wreck and their oldest daughter, Jessica, surviving an extremely close-call in a jet ski accident. On this episode, Pastor Greg, Pastor Josh Surratt, and Jenny Mayer (the youngest of the bunch) sit down with host, Joey Svendsen to discuss those dark times, including the narratives of those dreadful accidents. They reflect on God's goodness shown through church community and ponder these early seasons in the context of spiritual warfare and God's sustenance. The three also treat the listenership to some fun stories with hilarious insight on the Surratt family, back in the old days when our Lead Pastor, Josh Surratt, still got spankings.On this EpisodeJenny Mayer / Instagram Greg Surratt / Instagram Josh Surratt / Instagram Joey Svendsen, host / InstagramSeacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
Pete Endres grew up dreaming of owning a farm.And when his mother passed away in 2011, Pete and his brothers decided they wanted to not only own a farm, but to open up a cidery on said property.Pete, who later moved to the Seacoast in the mid-2010s, spent years searching for the perfect property until, finally, he found it in 2019.That farm? It's now home to Bird Dog Cider in Greenland, N.H., which formally opened its doors in the fall of 2024.From the cozy confines of Bird Dog, Pete sits down with host Troy Farkas to discuss the blood, sweat, and tears poured into revitalizing the once-dilapidated farm, the family atmosphere that defines Bird Dog, and having lines out the door the day they opened their barn doors to the public. Plus, getting chased by a sea lion, and even the MURDER that took place on the farm!?CHAPTERS:Troy checks in from the middle of nowhere (00:00)Getting chased by a sea lion (06:00)The (sad) motivation for opening Bird Dog (08:10)America's up-and-down love affair with cider (12:06)Turning a run-down Seacoast farm into a cidery (19:34)SPONSORS: Dermatology & Skin Health + Chinburg Properties (29:20)Why Bird Dog is focused on staying local (31:54)Lines out the door in fall 2024 (38:40)Balancing Bird Dog with a full-time job (43:00)The murder that happened on the farm (01:01:40)To learn more about Bird Dog's ciders and summer plans, visit their website here. And for their upcoming collaboration with 3 Bridges Yoga on June 20, 2026, book your spot here.SPONSORS:Chinburg PropertiesDermatology & Skin Health: Get 15% off botox, filler, and laser treatments at all DSH locations by mentioning "Seacoast Stories" at checkout for the REST OF 2026! UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to to Hampton, N.H., on Wednesday, June 17. Book your seat at the table here.
During this edition of the SSF the talk starts with a recap of Sherm and Jay Pinsonnault's trip to Fenway Park and Sherm's first time sitting on top of “The Green Monster” Talk shifts to the upcoming NHIAA sports playoffs…starting with baseball and then lacrosse and tennis, wrapping up with the recent success of the Exeter Bluehawk girls and boys track teams in the Seacoast regional meet. Catch Jay's sports columns at seacoastonline.com
Axel once again sits down with Phil MacArthur — a Boston-based real estate broker and multifamily investor who has quietly bootstrapped a 125-unit portfolio across some of the most remote, tertiary markets in New Hampshire. Phil's story is a refreshingly honest account of what it actually looks like to build a portfolio the hard way: no outside capital, no institutional backing, just hustle, grinding commissions from Boston condo sales, and reinvesting every dollar back into the next deal.He also shares the management chaos he experienced, contractor war stories, and the key hires that finally allowed him to step back and operate at scale.This episode is essential listening for any investor who wants a real, unfiltered look at what bootstrapping a 100+ unit portfolio actually costs you — in time, stress, and opportunity — and what you'd do differently if you were starting over today.Join us as we dive into:Why Lake Sunapee and Farmington, NH — not Manchester or the Seacoast — were Phil's first markets, and how affordability and personal connection drove the decisionThe reality of self-managing 25+ units across remote New Hampshire while running a full-time brokerage in Boston — and why Phil calls it one of his biggest regretsHow Phil found his generalist property manager through his own tenant network, and why she became the "cork in the bow of the boat" for his portfolioWhy Phil recommends new investors finance renovations rather than self-fund them — and how selling Boston condos to fund New Hampshire renos slowed his growthThe hyperlocal bank strategy: why Phil targeted lenders that already held the existing debt on properties he was buying — and how that unlocked financing others couldn't getWhy New Hampshire has been largely insulated from the distress hitting other markets — flat expenses, stable insurance, and strong meds-and-eds demand drivers from BostonPhil's current buy box: Class B buildings purchased below replacement cost, separate utilities, light cosmetic value add — and why he's deliberately stepping back from heavy renovation workThe 90% tenant retention rate Phil has achieved — and why rapid maintenance response is the single biggest driver of whether a tenant stays or leavesConnect with Phil:Connect with him on LinkedinFollow Brady Capital on InstagramLearn more about Windrift Real Estate, LLCListen to the Previous Episode with Phil:Ep119 - Living in an Expensive Market and Investing out of State + Quickly Building a Personally Owned Portfolio of 70+ Units via Spotify or AppleAre you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedinSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners
Welcome to Strange Mysteries: Volume 10 - In this episode, Steve Stockton presents a chilling journey into the dark, mist-shrouded history of the Spooky New Hampshire Seacoast Edition. From phantom lights to restless spirits bound to the rocky shores, we are uncovering the local legends and eerie encounters that have haunted New England for centuries.Turn off the lights, lock your doors, and join us as we dive deep into the high strangeness of the Seacoast.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.
Cody Whelan was miserable.Feeling purposeless in his geology career, he came home after work every day tired, irritable, and wondering why he was still putting himself through this. He dreamt of a different life for himself, a life centered on purpose, service, and connection. And after seven years of business ideas gnawing at him, he finally decided to pull the plug on his stable career so he could throw himself into the unstable waters of entrepreneurship.Enter Treeline Outfitters: Portsmouth's home for high-quality sustainable outdoor gear, delicious local beer, and genuine connection with like-minded human beings.Since opening their doors in February 2024, Treeline has felt the full force of the community coming out to support them, which shines through in their weekly run club, which now attracts between 60-100 people every Thursday night.From the taproom of Treeline Outfitters in the West End of Portsmouth, Cody and his wife Emily Kwesell sit down with host Troy Farkas to discuss why Cody began to resent his lucrative geology career, why it took him so long to take the leap, where the initial idea for Treeline came from, the explosive growth of run club, navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and much more.To learn more about Treeline's gear, beer, and events, visit TreelineOutfittersCo.com or follow them on Instagram @treeline_outfitters.CHAPTERS:Treeline's role in the 'Seacoast Stories' origin story (00:00)Why Cody started hating his job (07:00)What pushed them to start Treeline Outfitters (19:44)SPONSORS: Budget Blinds + Dermatology & Skin Health (30:00)How Treeline chooses their gear and beer (32:40)The growth of run club (42:14)Why Cody feels wealthier than ever (49:52)SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Dermatology & Skin Health: Get 15% off botox, filler, and laser treatments at all DSH locations by mentioning "Seacoast Stories" at checkout for the REST OF 2026! UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Portland, Maine, on Wednesday, June 3! We also head back to Hampton, N.H., on Wednesday, June 17. Book your seat at the table here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
In this 200th episode, Joey takes fellow hosts Jack, Lynne, and Tomelex on a trip down memory lane with a collection of the most memorable moments of the last 100 episodes. Launched in the summer of 2022, the Seacoast Podcast has brought four years of inspiring stories, learning from others, and laughing together. Along the way, the four hosts discuss whether political correctness has robbed society of smile-inducing, healthy humor, and they reveal that Joey just discovered Chuck Norris jokes. They also question how transparent and open each of them are when it comes to sharing about their personal lives on air—including the limitations of their aging bodies. In the end, Joey shares his desire for the podcast to continue to do what it's always been meant to do: foster critical thinking about people instead of shallow judgements and divisiveness.Hosts: Tomelex Copeland | Jack Hoey III | Lynne Stroy | Joey Svendsen Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver
Ankati Day is arguably the top yoga teacher on the Seacoast.A Maine native, the 42-year-old instructor graduated yoga teacher training 15 years ago in the jungles of Costa Rica. After living in the forest, she moved back to the Seacoast in 2015 to pursue yoga as a full-time career.These days, she currently teaches at 3 Bridges Yoga, Shilo Farm, and Studio One. Additionally, she leads worldwide yoga retreats and hosts ecstatic dance at Four Bodies Wellness every month.In the Season 4 Finale, Day rejoins the show in another installment of "The Follow-Up," where popular past guests return to the show.From the cozy confines of Shilo Farm in Eliot, Maine, Day and host Troy Farkas discuss the lost art of communication, how the 21st century is disconnecting us from our bodies, misconceptions of yoga teachers, and where the healing industry has it wrong these days.Plus, why Studio One stands above all other Seacoast fitness establishments, and an inside look into the magic of ecstatic dance!To learn more about Day, her teachings, and her fall yoga retreat in Jackson, Maine, you can visit AnkatiDay.com.EPISODE CHAPTERS:Ankati's backstory (00:00)What birds can teach us about proper communication (04:25)Troy's reservations with teaching yoga (18:30)SPONSORS: Dermatology & Skin Health + Portsmouth's David Higgins (35:06)Why teaching at Studio One is special (38:15)How to build the right fitness routine for you (44:27)The "bizarre" ecstatic dance she leads (49:56)Thank you for listening in Season 4! (59:00)SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Dermatology & Skin Health: Get 15% off botox, filler, and laser treatments at all DSH locations by mentioning "Seacoast Stories" at checkout for the REST OF 2026! UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Portland, Maine, on Wednesday, June 3! Book your seat at the table here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
In the first live podcast EVER (pres. by Chinburg Properties) performed at the historic Stone Church in Newmarket, N.H., host Troy Farkas brings "Seacoast Stories LIVE" to one of the Seacoast's most iconic venues.To begin the show, he talks to Max Pruna, the beloved owner of La Mulita Coffee. Together, the two discuss Pruna's secret to craft coffee magic, why La Mulita is so universally enjoyed, and some breaking news regarding the expansion of the coffee shop! (00:00)Then, popular local musician Caitlin Piper plays three songs from her upcoming album, "In Cursive," which releases on June 12 (28:56). After that, she and Troy talk about her songwriting process, how the Seacoast has embraced her music, and more (42:05).And, in the headlining conversation, Dem. Stefany Shaheen makes her "Seacoast Stories" debut! The two talk about their shared experiences with type 1 diabetes, the pivotal 2024 moment that inspired Shaheen to run for U.S. Congress this year, the state of the housing market on the Seacoast, the fight to keep young people in N.H., why she's optimistic about Portsmouth's future, an uplifting story that was relayed to her by DNC Vice Chair Malcolm Kenyatta, and more(54:30).Plus, Shaheen takes a handful of questions from the audience (01:32:15).SPONSORS:Chinburg Properties: Find your next dream apartment today in Portsmouth, Dover, Rochester, and more!UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wed., May 20 in Portsmouth's West End! Sign up here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wed., June 3 in Portland, ME. Sign up here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
Do Christians have a responsibility to serve their neighbors? The verse Jeremiah 29:7 calls God's people to seek the peace and prosperity of the city—to pray for it, to care about it, and to invest in it. To live this out, Seacoast launched "Love Where You Live” in March to create intentionality around serving people in our communities. It isn't a one-time event, but rather an initiative to create a culture around loving the people in the communities where God has placed us. Listeners will hear from Local Missions Pastor, Jen Cameron, and three Seacoasters who share their stories about how they've made "loving where they live" a lifestyle. With Jack Hoey, Lynne Stroy, Josh Walters, and Joey Svendsen, this episode dissects what serving can look like and explores why it's not really a choice for those who follow Jesus. In this Episode:Nikie Johnson | Facebook | North Charleston Seacoast Dream CenterMegan Masters | Instagram | The Navigation CenterAmy and Joe Welch | Instagram | Welch Community HopeHosts: Jen Cameron | Jack Hoey | Lynne Stroy | Joey Svendsen | Josh Walters To find a community partner or Seacoast Local Missions Ministry you can serve with, check out www.seacoast.org/localmissions and choose your campus. Seacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you. E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver