Episode 70: Featuring Dava Davin, Founder of Portside Real Estate Group Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he sits down with Dava Davin, founder of Portside Real Estate Group, to discuss Dava’s career journey from pharmaceuticals to real estate, her accomplishments in endurance sports, and the continued growth of her company. Now the second-largest real estate firm by sales volume in Maine and the top woman-owned agency in Northern New England, Portside Real Estate Group supports a network of more than 200 agents. Davin underscores the importance of strong communication, mentorship, and community engagement, including the firm’s more than $1 million in charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations. The conversation also explores Portside’s recent acquisition of The Swan Agency and its expanding market presence, as well as Davin’s approach to sustaining high-quality service while balancing local roots with national opportunities.

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, guest host Caitlin Burke sits down with John Stebbins, CEO of ProCon. John shares his path from working in his family’s business to leading New Hampshire’s largest general contractor. Caitlin and John explore his experience developing more than 20 hotels and commercial properties, including major projects such as the Row Hotel at Assembly Row and Liberty Lane in Hampton, New Hampshire. John highlights the importance of vertical integration, collaboration, and community engagement, particularly in housing development. He also addresses key challenges facing the construction industry, including labor shortages and the ongoing shift toward modular construction. Throughout the conversation, his strong commitment to family, colleagues, and community is clear.

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, host Greg Boulos sits down with Melissa Boyd, a renowned spiritual medium and transformational business coach. Melissa shares her inspiring personal journey, including her 150-pound weight loss through yoga, and discusses how intuition and mediumship have shaped her life and career. Melissa reflects on her work with General Colin Powell, her advanced training at the Arthur Findlay College in England, and her contributions to public policy. Greg and Melissa explore the role of intuition in business decision-making, touching on techniques such as numerology and energy awareness. Melissa also highlights her philanthropic work, donating 10% of proceeds from her Luminous Eight program to nonprofit organizations. The conversation concludes with thoughtful insights on the evolution of human consciousness and the growing influence of energy in both personal and professional transformation.

Episode 67: Torey Penrod-Cambra, Co-Founder and Chief Communications Officer of HighByte In this episode of The Boulos Beat, guest host Cameron Foster interviews Torey Penrod-Cambra, Co-Founder and Chief Communications Officer of HighByte, an industrial software company headquartered in Portland, Maine. Torey shares her journey from Columbus, Ohio, to settling in Maine in 2011, as well as the educational and professional experiences that ultimately led to the founding of HighByte in 2018. The conversation highlights the company’s rapid growth, its role in advancing industrial data infrastructure, and its commitment to community engagement through initiatives such as Girls Who Code and FIRST Robotics.

Join host Greg Boulos on this engaging episode of The Boulos Beat for an in-depth conversation with Chef Harding Lee Smith, a renowned Portland-based chef and restaurateur. Chef Smith shares his remarkable journey, from his introduction to the restaurant industry at the age of seven to his formal training at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Together, they explore the vision, inspiration, and challenges behind Smith’s five celebrated establishments: The Front Room, The Corner Room, The Grill Room, The Mountain Room, and The Last Run Room. The discussion also delves into the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, persistent staffing challenges, and the complexities of rising operational costs. Looking to the future, Chef Smith reveals his exciting plans for a new restaurant in Bethel.

In this episode, guest host Claire Richardson leads an engaging and informative conversation with Howard Goldenfarb, founder of RAM Companies. Mr. Goldenfarb shares his remarkable career trajectory—from his early aspirations in law to becoming a prominent real estate developer beginning in Portland, Maine, in the 1970s. He offers a detailed account of the challenges and successes surrounding the redevelopment of Exchange Street, a cornerstone project in the revitalization of the Old Port. The discussion expands to his international ventures, including the development of outlet centers across Europe, and culminates with an in-depth look at the ambitious Portland Music Hall project—a 3,300-seat venue set to elevate the city’s cultural and economic landscape. Throughout the conversation, Mr. Goldenfarb emphasizes the enduring importance of integrity, resilience, and adaptability—principles that have defined his distinguished career.

Join host Greg Boulos for this episode of The Boulos Beat as he sits down with Josh Miranda, a leading restaurateur based in Portland, Maine. In this insightful conversation, Josh reflects on his career path—from his early beginnings at the Village Cafe to his evolution into a successful entrepreneur and owner of four acclaimed restaurants: Via Vecchia, Blyth & Burrows, Papi, and Off-Track Pizza. Josh shares candid insights into the complexities of managing multiple dining establishments, the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significance of crafting distinctive guest experiences. He also addresses industry-wide challenges, including rising rents and labor costs, and emphasizes the importance of adaptability in a constantly changing market. Looking ahead, Josh discusses his strategic focus on refining and strengthening his existing restaurant portfolio.

Join guest host Samantha Marinko of The Boulos Company on the Boulos Beat as she interviews Jen Millard, CEO and Co-Founder of Mainelove. In this episode, Samantha and Jen explore Jen’s journey from Colby College to establishing a company that provides sustainably packaged water sourced from Sebago Lake. Jen underscores the pivotal role of relationships and mentorship, reflecting on her experiences at Colby and Sears. Mainelove strategically utilizes existing brewery infrastructure to produce water in aluminum cans, effectively reducing single-use plastic waste. Their conversation highlights Mainelove’s mission to create diversified revenue streams for brewers while promoting Maine’s natural resources. Jen discusses the essential qualities for entrepreneurial success—fearlessness, collaboration, and adaptability—as she works toward positioning Mainelove as a prominent regional beverage brand, all while staying true to its commitment to sustainability and community impact.

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he interviews Chef David Turin, a distinguished culinary expert based in Maine, who boasts over 43 years of experience in the industry. Chef Turin has successfully owned and operated several esteemed restaurants, including David's Monument Square, David's Opus 10, and David's 388. David’s exceptional contributions to the culinary world were recognized in 2012 when he was named Chef of the Year and inducted into the Honorable Order of the Golden Toke. During the interview, Chef Turin shares his remarkable journey, beginning with his education at Cornell University and his first job in the Virgin Islands. He candidly discusses the myriad challenges associated with running restaurants, emphasizing the critical importance of financial planning, treating employees with respect, and maintaining consistency in recipes. Chef Turin also touched upon his personal experiences with anger management and highlighted his appearance on the Food Network's "Guy's Grocery Games," offering a glimpse into the dynamic and often demanding nature of the culinary profession.

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he sits down with Mike Foley, owner of Foley’s Fitness in Scarborough, Maine. In this episode, Mike shares his journey in the fitness industry from overcoming back surgery in the 1980’s, to locating a site for a gym, to launching Foley’s Fitness in 2019. Today, Foley’s Fitness serves 3,600 members and employs a team of 60 professionals. Mike also discusses his recent loss of sight in one eye and how stem cell and exosome treatments significantly improved his vision. Tune in for an engaging discussion on location strategies, health, entrepreneurship, and resilience.

Join guest host Samantha Marinko of The Boulos Company on the Boulos Beat as she interviews Melissa Martens Yaverbaum, Executive Director of Portland Ballet. Melissa shares ways the arts have shaped her life in unexpected ways, given her experiences with different museums, libraries, and cultural organizations. In this episode, Melissa also underscores Portland Ballet's work to engage new communities, build partnerships, and to make ballet approachable to all in Maine. Additionally, Sam and Melissa discuss Portland Ballet’s upcoming performances, including "New Works" and "Sleeping Beauty."

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he engages with Tim Harrington, Chairman of Atlantic Hospitality, to delve into Tim’s illustrious career in real estate and hospitality. In this episode, Harrington recounts his early career beginnings in Boston, his subsequent relocation to Maine, and his strategic acquisitions of notable properties such as the Astico, Hidden Pond, and the Claremont Hotel. He offers insights into the ramifications of COVID-19 on his business, underscores the vital role of local banks, and elaborates on his philosophy of property acquisition and renovation. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intrinsic value of real estate ownership and the promising growth potential within Maine's hospitality sector, which Harrington attributes to its distinctive assets and appeal.

In this special memorial edition, we remember Joe Soley, CEO and Founder of Monopoly, LLC, whose remarkable journey from delivering newspapers in New York to becoming a successful real estate investor stands as a beacon of dedication and entrepreneurship. Joe's career began with humble roots, delivering newspapers and serving in the Coast Guard. His early ventures in Baltimore included significant projects for companies like Black and Decker and Dunkin' Donuts. His move to Maine marked a transformative period, where he developed properties in Camden and Portland, including the iconic Old Port area. Join us in remembering Joe Soley's legacy in the real estate industry.

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he delves into the inspiring journey of Gretchen Johnson, who transitioned from a dedicated volunteer and Board Member to the Executive Director of the Center for Grieving Children. In this episode, Gretchen discusses the Center’s mission to provide volunteer-led, age-specific peer support groups for those navigating grief. She shares her career progression, from her roles in marketing and business development at two prominent Portland law firms to her impactful contributions on the Center’s Board, culminating in her current leadership role as Executive Director. Additionally, Gretchen and Greg explore the Center's facilities, including the strategic acquisition of a building at 555 Forest Avenue and the profound impact this move has had on the organization. Tune in to learn more about the Center for Grieving Children's vital work and Gretchen Johnson’s inspiring path of dedication and leadership.

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, host Greg Boulos engages with Meredith Strang Burgess, President and CEO of Burgess Advertising & Marketing, a prominent advertising and marketing firm based in Portland, Maine. They explore her diverse career and the personal experiences that have significantly influenced her life. The discussion covers Meredith’s tenure as a state representative, her journey as a cancer survivor, and her forthcoming book on breast cancer. She also highlights her pivotal role in founding the annual Maine Tri for a Cure triathlon, which, this year, successfully raised $2.18 million for the Maine Cancer Foundation. Additionally, Greg and Meredith reflect on the evolution of the advertising industry, her active participation on various nonprofit boards, and her political contributions, including co-sponsoring the landmark 2009 same-sex marriage bill. Meredith underscores the importance of women supporting one another and the profound impact of her efforts in cancer prevention and support.

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, host Greg Boulos speaks with Bob Gould, a retired partner of Brown Brothers Harriman, about his extensive leadership roles in both commercial and nonprofit sectors. Bob currently holds positions as Principal at Spinnaker Trust, Trustee and Investment Committee Chair of the Pinkerton Foundation, and Co-Chair of the Board of Squash Haven. The two discuss Bob’s family's history in Maine, his involvement in the Black Point Inn acquisition, and his role in the Portland Museum of Art's Winslow Homer Studio purchase. Bob also shares insights on the growth of the Pinkerton Foundation, the importance of mentorship, and his views on Portland's development and the future of Spinnaker Trust.

On this episode of The Boulos Beat, guest host Cameron Foster sits down with Kathryn Sargent, Executive Director of the Locker Project to discuss her journey from Massachusetts to Maine, her education at Bowdoin and UVA, and her transition to the Locker Project. Founded in Portland in 2014, the Locker Project relies on foundation grants and contributions from local businesses and community members to provide food-insecure children and families with reliable access to nourishing food. Unlike school meal programs, the Locker Project provides fresh produce and meal items for the whole family. Unlike traditional food pantries, the Locker Project partners with schools and other local agencies to make food available at dozens of locations. In 2024, program partners will facilitate distribution of more than 600,000 pounds of nutritious food in Greater Portland and beyond. Community members interested in supporting this work can find more information or make a donation at www.mainelockerproject.org.

On this episode of The Boulos Beat, our guest host Caitlin Burke is excited to connect with Ben Kelley, principal of Kelley Family Properties. The family-owned real estate development and investment company has properties throughout New Hampshire and specializes in value-add re-development in commercial and multi-family properties. Ben and Caitlin sit down to discuss Ben’s life-long career journey, including how his internship with Brady Sullivan Properties, one of the largest commercial and residential real estate companies in New Hampshire, evolved into his estate entrepreneurship today. They also dive into the properties Kelley Family Properties and The Boulos Company have leased together, the projects Ben is most proud of, and why he and his team decided to do business in New Hampshire.

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, host Greg Boulos engages in a conversation with Cole Siefer, the CEO of Med Matrix. They delve into the origins of Med Matrix, a cutting-edge medical clinic and med spa with locations in South Portland, ME, and North Conway, NH, and how Sasha Phillips of The Boulos Company helped Med Matrix in its space search. Cole shares how personal experiences shaped the establishment of Med Matrix and discusses the challenges of running a business at a young age, including the dynamics of working with family members. Greg and Cole discuss such topics as exosomes, stem cell treatments, and the array of other services offered by Med Matrix. Additionally, they explore the role of functional medicine in healthcare and outline the model of Med Matrix in the years to come.

On this episode of The Boulos Beat, host Greg Boulos speaks with Dinah Minot, former TV, and film producer and now Executive Director of Creative Portland. The nonprofit organization promotes the economy through the arts and elevates the artists, makers, and cultural institutions that make Portland one of a kind.