BallstonConnect Podcast

In this episode of Ballstonconnect, Tina Leone continues her exploration of art in Arlington with abstract artist and professor, David Carlson.

We learn the state of the arts in the area and how a Community Collective could improve the station and visibility of art in commercial spaces, and eliminate the notion of the "starving artist." 

Arlington has a rich art and culture scene, thanks in large part to independent galleries like Ballston's own Fred Schnider Gallery at 888 N Quincy St. 

Tina Leone chats with Mary Anne Schnider, Director of the Schnider Gallery, to learn what motivated her family to bring a gallery to the community, how they curate their shows, and what will be on display in the fall*. 

*Some content is time-sensitive.

Amazon is coming to Arlington, but who brought them here? In this episode of BallstonConnect, Tina Leone talks with Alex Iams, the Interim Director of Arlington Economic Development, or AED. Find out what AED does, how the deal that brought Amazon to Arlington came to be, and what's next in AED's strategy for future development. 

Some of the biggest business deals happen over a game of golf, but this is a realm that has been mostly closed to women until recently. Our guest, Tina Fox, is the National Chairwoman for Women on Course, a community for business professionals looking to expand their knowledge and connections through golf. 

Tina discusses what led her to learn the game, how it has improved her business relationships, and why she encourages other women to break through the barrier and learn to play and enhance their careers. 

You may know their signature Ted's Tarts and homestyle milkshakes, but this is your chance to learn the story behind the new Ted's Bulletin in Ballston. 

Tina Leone is joined by Steve Salis, President of Salis Holdings, and Nick Salis, VP of Operations at Ted's. Ted's Bulletin and Sidekick Bakery may be the Salis brothers' newest contribution to the Ballston neighborhood, but you may recognize their name from the equally popular &pizza. 

Find out what motivated Steve and Nick to leave their day jobs and break into the restaurant business, how they acquired Ted's, and their plan for what they'll do next. 

On this episode of BallstonConnect, Tina Leone is joined by Arlington's newest County Board member, Matt de Ferranti. 

Tina and Matt discuss his experiences with Teach for America, how his time in Houston would eventually motivate him to enter politics, and what he hopes to accomplish in education and housing during his time on the Board. 

Tina Leone sits down with culinary trendsetter and chef, Josu Zubikarai, to discuss travel, following your passion, and of course, food. 

Zubikarai has been a driving force behind some of the most well-known Spanish restaurants in the region including Taberna del Alabardero, La Tasca, SER, and now Copa Kitchen & Bar. He discusses humble beginnings in Basque, how he discovered his love for cooking, and what keeps him coming back to Ballston and DC. 

This month, Tina Leone is joined by two leaders shaping Arlington's identity through public art. 

Michelle Isabelle-Stark, Director of Arlington Cultural Affairs, and Angela Adams, the Director of Arlington Public Art discuss the necessity of art in any society, the economic impact art can have on a community, and how you can experience art in all forms in Arlington. 

The landscape of retail and nightlife is experiencing a dramatic shift in the age of Amazon and Instagram. Consumers are now looking for experiences that leave a lasting impact, and Ballston has become a new destination for thrill-seekers and foodies, and everything in between. 

This month Tina is joined by Dawn Charbonneau of 5 Wits and Brett Ramsdell of Punchbowl Social. Both businesses are newcomers to the area and Ballston Quarter, but they are already redefining what it means to go out in Ballston. Find out how these companies got their start, what sets them apart from competitors, and why they chose to settle in Ballston. 

Ballston Quarter is open! With so many businesses opening their doors within the newly redeveloped mall, we wanted to look back at how the mall came to Ballston, the process of redevelopment, and updates on who and what you'll see open when you visit next. 

In this episode, we look back on our 2018 conversation with Will Voegele, the Senior Vice President of Brookfield Properties, and Victoria Lai, the founder of Ice Cream Jubilee. Find out her story, and taste her ice cream for yourself. Ice Cream Jubilee is now open in Ballston Quarter's Quarter Market!