Boston's Best

The best businesses often start by doing things differently. This week, my guest shares how he capitalized on the untapped opportunity by responding to a gap between the customization market and the footwear industry by celebrating individuality and facilitating self-expression.

I am talking with Justin Kittredge, Founder, CEO, and Janitor at ISlide, a customizable footwear company in Boston, MA. ISlide gives you a unique opportunity to stand in what you stand for by enabling you to create a design to sport on a pair of high-quality, athletic slides so that you can carry your beliefs and interests with you wherever you go.

Today, Justin shares how he got started in the footwear industry by working for Reebok, building relationships in the Sports and Marketing world. After selling his first slide in 2013, ISlide was off to the races. Justin also shares how DJ Khaled helped jumpstart ISlide's career by helping sell over 800 slides in his store on the first day. We also discuss early challenges faced in his career as well as plans for the future.

Topics Discussed:

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About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

This week, I am talking with David Virden, Owner of Virden Benefits, a full-service Insurance Benefits provider, located in Danvers, MA. Before David Virden's insurance career, he worked in Consumer Goods Marketing, working for advertising agencies & clients, including Dunkin' Donuts & Volkswagen and the Boston Beer Company.

After his father was diagnosed with ALS in 2006, he sought to work for an ALS organization. David wanted to create the awareness and advocacy the ALS community deserves.

While working as a Benefits Advisor, this allows him to continue helping people. Offering practical, affordable peace of mind, David is currently licensed in MA, RI, NH, ME, VT, NC, SC, and VA and is adding licenses where opportunities present.

Today, David shares early challenges faced in his business, how he helps alleviate financial stress for Cancer Patients, and his “why” behind helping those with Short-Term Disabilities. We also discuss the best approach for marketing in business, why working for yourself can set you apart, and the importance of insuring your paycheck to help you afford a “normal” lifestyle

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Virden Benefits

Relevant Articles:

Contact Virden Benefits:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

This week, I am talking with Chris Tkach, Owner, and Founder of Idle Hands Craft Ales. Idle Hands is a Belgian and German-inspired Craft Brewery located in Malden, MA, and is celebrating its 10th anniversary during Oktoberfest. What started as a simple homebrewing kit from his uncle for his 21st birthday quickly became a passion for creating craft beers for others to enjoy.

Not only does Chris appreciate the art behind beer making, but his wife Grace is also a beer connoisseur and plays the significant role of Idle Hands Chief Right Hand. While Chris manages all beer-related functions of the brewery, Grace takes care of all “right-brained activities, including marketing and people-related fun.”

Today, Chris shares what the past ten years have been like in the beer industry and the many changes along the way, including the opportunity to open their taproom. We also discuss the challenges faced during Covid-19 and how Idle Hands was well equipped to pivot along the way. Chris also shares his goals for the future and advice he would give any new business owner.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Idle Hands Craft Ales:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Idle Hands Craft Ales:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

This week, I am talking with Chris Antao, Founder of Gnome Surf, located in Fall River, MA. Gnome Surf is a 501c3 Non-Profit Surf Therapy Organization providing innovative healthcare services that address physical and mental health and the emotional well-being of their Athletes.

Gnome Surf focuses on Neurodivergent Children and Adults and teaches them how to embrace charity and nature, promote positivity, create the feeling of accomplishment, model persistence characteristics, and practice overcoming obstacles through surfing. They specialize in teaching kids the positive power of surfing and empowering them through the waves’ spiritual power.

Today, Chris shares the power of surfing and why he believes the waves have divine healing powers. We discuss how neurodivergent individuals perform better in the water and why it empowers them to overcome daily struggles. Chris also shares how Surf Therapy helped him overcome his battles and why being out on the water is a spiritual experience for each person.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Gnome Surf:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Gnome Surf:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner Mark Condon as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

Needing a creative space to start your next great business idea? Wanting to catch up with friends and family? Or simply wanting to try a new cup of coffee and homemade food? Then you’re in for a real treat on this episode of Boston’s Best!

This week, I am talking with Bonnie Souza, Founder of Pink Bean Coffee. Pink Bean Coffee provides organic coffees and whole quality, healthful foods and serves as a meeting place for gatherings and events that bring people together. Located in Somerset, Pink Bean offers a variety of organic coffee, breakfast & lunch options, smoothies, and vegan and gluten-free choices as well. Not to mention, Pink Bean won Best Specialty Coffee Drink in the Southcoast Almanac.

Today, Bonnie, joined with her wife, Sandy, share what it was like in the early days of Pink Bean Coffee. We discuss the importance of understanding the ins and outs of your business, why partner contracts are essential to the vision and mission of the business, and what it means to be open to new opportunities. Bonnie nods to pioneering through Covid-19 and how they were able to stay afloat social distancing mandates. Both Bonnie and Sandy also talk about their ideas for the future and why business decisions need to come from your heart and soul.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Pink Bean Coffee:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Pink Bean Coffee:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

Booking your 2022 wedding and looking for a unique set to play at your reception? Needing a last minute band to play at your holiday work party? Or just simply wanting to add a little bit of “wow factor” to your next private event? Then Young Love and The Thrills is for you!

This week, I am talking with Andy Wesby, Owner, Manager, and Performer of Young Love and The Thrills. Young Love and the Thrills is a Boston Wedding and Party Band consisting of eight members, and has collectively toured both nationally and internationally. With over 500 weddings and numerous awards under their belt, it’s no wonder people want to book Young Love and The Thrills for their own wedding, private, and corporate events!

In this episode, Andy shares his passion for music and how he went from touring in 2010, managing and rebranding Young Love and The Thrills in 2013, to now touring roughly 50 weddings a year. We discuss why the wedding industry is breaking away from tradition, how the global pandemic impacted the wedding industry, and what Andy considers professional success.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Young Love and The Thrills:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Young Love and The Thrills:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

When it comes to Real Estate, you never know what type of transaction you’ll get on any given week. From studio apartments to 50-Unit buildings, Boston has its own diverse set of needs.

This week, I am talking with Matt Ramey, Owner of Concept Properties. Concept Properties is a Boutique Real Estate Company located in Boston’s South End. With nearly a decade of experience working with investors and sellers in the Boston real estate market, Matt’s knowledge of the Boston zoning codes allows him to identify underutilized properties that have development potential and has assisted in bringing these projects to market. Whether you’re a Seller, Buyer, or Investor, Concept Properties is a Real Estate resource you can trust.

In this episode, Matt shares how he went from touring with Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps to attending Berklee College of Music, to focusing on Real Estate in Boston. We discuss the Real Estate industry from a Sellers, Buyers, and Investors perspective as well as the importance of asking for advice when you don’t have the answers. Be sure to stay tuned as Matt also shares his invention and patent of the Hanging Container Lid Assembly US patent No. 10,486,871!

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Concept Properties:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Concept Properties:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

Looking for a place to connect with old colleagues? Need a night to unwind with your spouse? Or wanting to hang out with your best pals over some craft beers? Then you’ll love this week’s featured small business!

This week, I am talking with Paul Gentile, Co-Owner of Gentile Brewing Company, alongside his wife, Christen. Gentile Brewing Company is a Family-Owned and Operated Nano Craft Brewery located in Beverly, MA. What makes Gentile Brewing Co. unique is that not only are they the first Craft Beer Taproom in Beverly, they are also dog friendly!

In this episode, Paul shares his entrepreneurial journey from homebrewing to meeting his wife at a New Years Eve party, to entering the craft beer industry and later opening his own brewery. Paul shares the importance of collaborating with those in his community and why the focus has always been on cultivating a family-friendly environment. Be sure to listen in as Paul shares the ups and downs of the brewing industry, what he would tell his 18-year-old self, and why passion is essential to owning a business, no matter the industry.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Gentile Brewing Company:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Gentile Brewing Company:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

Looking for the perfect gifts for your bridal party? Wanting to add a little more rustic decor to your modern-day farmhouse? Needing to spruce up your home decor for the holidays? Then you’re in the right place! This week’s highlighted company specializes in quality, American craftsmanship and was founded on love, “where family and team aren’t just words… they are a way of life”.

This week, I am talking with Melanie and Brian O’Neil, Husband and Wife Co-Founders of Rustic Marlin. Located in Coastal MA, Rustic Marlin creates premium quality, hand-crafted home decor for everyone and every occasion. Rustic Marlin prides themselves in using real solid wood, premium textiles and on being handcrafted in the USA.

In this episode, Melanie and Brian share how their wedding day paved the way for Rustic Marlin, what it truly means to be an Entrepreneur, and lessons they’ve learned along the way. Both Melanie and Brian open up about the hardships of entrepreneurship, why rapid growth can be detrimental to organic growth, and why they love what they do.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Rustic Marlin:

Relevant Articles:

Contact Rustic Marlin:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.

Every custom, one-off batch of beer has a unique backstory. Whether it’s a recipe designed to pair with the music of a local band, a pair of beers brewed for a wedding to represent the happy couple, or a brew made to honor the memory of a beloved past pet, this week’s featured Brewery represents the people in their community.

This week, I am talking with Liz and Jared Kiraly, Owners of Bone Up Brewing Company. Bone Up Brewing Company is an American Farmhouse Brewery located in Scenic Everett, MA, using local, quality ingredients. Bone Up Brewing is inspired by the Belgian farmhouse brewing tradition and crafts modern interpretations of classic styles. Bone Up creates beers that are balanced and approachable at face value, but will reward the drinker with subtle complexity upon closer inspection.

Liz and Jared met over a shared love of good beer and have been brewing together ever since. With Jared’s 15-year brewing experience and Liz’s 10-year marketing and brand building expertise, this dynamic duo makes the perfect team for Bone Up.

In this episode, Liz and Jared share how they started Bone Up, the meaning behind the name, and the importance of creating lasting memories for their community. Jared shares setbacks and challenges behind starting the brewery from lack of equipment to thriving during a Global Pandemic. Liz also shares the importance of community and why strong relationships helped them through many challenges faced.

Topics Discussed:

Connect with Bone Up Brewing Company:

Relevant Articles:

https://www.bostonmagazine.com/restaurants/2016/06/23/drink-this-now-bone-up-brewing-2016/

Contact Bone Up Brewing Company:

Connect with Mark Condon:

About Boston’s Best:

“Highlighting successful businesses in and around Boston, MA.”

Go behind the scenes with financial planner, Mark Condon, as he asks industry-leading experts to talk about their businesses throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Through each episode, Mark finds what sets these different businesses apart from their competition and how they rose above the inevitable challenges they faced along the way to their ultimate success.