Podcasts: The Western Mass. Business Show
The Western Mass. Business Show
Entrepreneurs undertake risk and responsibility, in order to solve problems, contribute their passions and talents to society, and make the world go round. Our success and survival depends on them, and they depend on you. Hear their stories, perspectives, and inspirations every week, as they reveal themselves in a conversation with Tara Brewster. Saturdays at 11AM and Sundays at 2PM on The Western Mass Business Show.
Western Mass Business Show on 1.18.25 — The Institute for Musical Arts
The Institute for Musical Arts Goshen, MA
Ann Hackler (Executive Director) and June Millington (Artistic Director) have broken the sound barriers in Goshen, MA. Their love for each other and women in the music industry having a chance to be heard has been their drum beat since 1986 in California. Luckily, they got priced out of the market and came back to the 413 in 2001. On their property they teach young women how to play, record, sing, write, and ROCK. They are joined in the studio by Dana Warren, a 5X Camper, student, and 17-year-old and Penelope Black, a former camper, intern, student, and 19-year-old. Tune in to find out why you need to send your daughter to their summer camps, attend an upcoming concert in the red barn, listen to the jam-a-thon, and more. Go to www.ima.org to see for yourself. Thanks for listening.
Western Mass Business on 1.11.25 — Twice As Smart
Gloria Matlock Founder and Executive Director
Debbie Shriver Chair of the BOD
Michael Kane BOD Member
Shino
Jemanae
Jayleigh
Rose
www.twice-as-smart.org
Founded in 2016 in Gloria’s home, Twice As Smart was begun on the principle that some kids need extra help. Because Gloria saw a need and because she is a fixer, she wanted to help fix a learning deficiency in Franklin County. What bean with 7 kids in her living room quickly rose to 17 before she realized she needed a bigger space. The program now sees 32 students in the basement of the Second Congregational Church in Greenfield. Gloria grew up in Ohio and began teaching other children at age 11. She saw the value of education and the need to help others when possible. Debbie and she met over singing and have been friends ever since. There is a strong music component to TAS, and the kids overlap with the Musica Franklin curriculum in Greenfield as well. Join us to learn why you should support this amazing non-profit in the 413. A special song by the children was the highlight of the interview. Thanks for listening. Happy New Year.
Western Mass Business Show on 12.7.24 — Britt McGrath, Owner of My Health Matters Fitness
Join us as we hear first-hand from Britt McGrath on how she approaches her first year in business and why your health matters. Learn how and why she started the company and how she and her team approach fitness, nutrition, and body image. Britt, Tiff, and Jamie help to make clients feel comfortable and welcome in the space at 1 Mill Valley Road in Hadley. Their team of trainers are aligned to guide clients to wellness and fitness based on their own personal goals. This anti-diet culture studio (body positive/body neutral/weight inclusive) is a welcome respite from the stress of other gyms and training regimens. Follow along with us or on www.mhmfitwell.com for more information. Thanks for joining us. Happy December.
Western Mass Business Show on 11.30.24 — Mischa Roy, Founder of Spill the Tea Sis Apothecary
Join us as we chat with Mischa Roy, CEO and Founder of Spill the Tea Sis Apothecary as we learn about Holiday Trends and How to Gift Give Intentionally. The Importance of Thoughtful Gift Giving and How to Be Mindful with Your Purchases focuses on local shopping and supporting your community and neighbors. Listen in as we hear predictions for retail in 2024 and why local is the best gift of all. What are some options that you can find locally and how can you make a difference in your community and family this holiday season. From Bag Day to candles, Holiday Strolls to jingle bells, as my Grandma used to say “oh but we had fun”. Thanks for being a part of the WMBS magic.
Western Mass Business Show on 11.23.24 — Mara Levi & Nova Wehman-Brown of the Queer Joy Collaborative
Mara Levi, Executive Director, and Nova Wehman-Brown, BOD Chair of the Queer Joy Collaborative
Western Mass Business Show on 11.16.24 — Safe Passage
Join us as we hear from Safe Passage Team Members:
Marianne Winters
Natalie Ulrich
Samili Suarez
Karla T
Alec Rietz
Mark your calendars for 12/8. The Hot Chocolate Run is coming up. Greenfield Savings Bank is doing a donation match on 11/20 up to 15,000. A good reason to make those asks. Listen in as we hear about the many programs that SP has and how they are helping those affected by domestic violence. How you can get involved and why you should support their work. Thanks for listening.
Western Mass Business Show on 11.12.24 — Tiffany Chapman, Photographer
Join us as we take a snapshot of Tiffany Chapman and her journey into creating her hobby into a full-time business. While it hasn’t been easy, following your heart often isn’t. After getting laid off in 2020, Tiffany decided to take the leap and start her own photography business. The road of an entrepreneur is often paved with potholes and sacrifices but also yellow bricks and rainbows. Listen in as we hear about some of both and how you might be able to help this community treasure find her own pot of gold at the end of her entrepreneurial journey. We must support one another to make this community the place that we all want to be. Thanks for listening and being a part of the magic of the WMBS.
www.tiffanychapmanphotography.com
Western Mass Business Show on 10.26.24 — Judith Fine
Many of you know Judith Fine as the Former Owner of Gazebo on Center Street. Join us as we talk about what it means to care so deeply for a place like downtown Northampton. Judith as many know her is a true SHERO of downtown and a community crusader for many causes including the arts and small business. One of 01060’s finest ambassadors is going strong after selling her store to 2 former employees and finding that her days are busier than ever in her retirement/rewirement. One major topic during our chat is the upcoming memorial/benefit/fundraiser for Anchor House of Artists/NEVA Museum on Friday November 8th from 6-8PM. Through the passing of her love and friend, Charlie Miller, his art will be for sale during this time and the proceeds will be donated to NEVA per his wishes. Listen in as we get some gems from the Queen of Downtown on how to show up in community and use your voice for good. If you don’t stand for something you stand for nothing. Thanks for listening.
Western Mass Business Show on 10.12.24 — Robin Bialecki & Pat Brough
Join us as we hear from Robin Bialecki ED of the Easthampton Community Center about her dedicated approach to helping the community meet it’s needs. Under her leadership (since 2008) the ECC has grown to helping all four counties reach the gaps that they have in their respective needs. From food insecurity, housing, job loss, relocation, and more, the ECC has risen to the level that the clients demand (open 7 days). Robin and her team have a hard time saying no and as a result have steadily increased their capacity to serve more and more clients for over 46 years. As one of the only gluten and allergy free pantries in WMA they get many requests for food specific and sensitive care products. Robin gets this done through her over 200 volunteer staff that help throughout the year, including Pat Brough, Sales and Marketing Director for Finck & Perras Insurance. 10 years ago, he helped co-create the much beloved event Give Em the Bird 5K which is a benefit for the ECC. In 2015, they raised 10,000 and they now hope to raise more than 35,000 this year. With over 55 sponsors, I think they have a shot at having their best year ever.
