Frankly Speaking - with Darryl Frank

Athletic Director Tom Kozikowski—better known as “Koz”—joins Frankly Speaking: People & Stories of the Seacoast to share his journey from Long Island to UNH and ultimately to Portsmouth High School. In this episode, Koz reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership style, his passion for student-athletes, and the role community plays in building strong programs both on and off the field.

This week’s guest is Pastor Chris Dunaway of the Middle Street Baptist Church in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

In this episode, we go beyond the pulpit to explore Chris’s early life—where he came from, the experiences that shaped him, and the path that ultimately led him to the Seacoast. It’s a story about discovering purpose, answering a call, and building connections in a place that many now call home.

Hannah talks about travels from Tell City, Indiana to establishing roots in the Seacoast area, where she balances family life and work in the funeral services.

Steve talks about the early days and continuing the family environment of Lago's Ice Cream.

Darryl reflects on the early years and the impact of his dad, spawning the idea for this podcast.

In Episode 07 of Frankly Speaking, we welcome guest Kevin Macleod. Kevin recounts his early years, family history, and the origins of Yoken's Family Restaurant. The discussion covers significant milestones, including the restaurant's evolution, challenges, and eventual success. Kevin shares heartwarming stories of community involvement, family ties, and his ongoing contributions to the seacoast area. The episode captures the rich history and impact of Yoken's, painting a vivid picture of Portsmouth's development through the lens of a beloved local figure.

00:00 Introduction and Weekend Recap

00:33 Guest Introduction: Kevin Macleod

01:14 Early Childhood and Family Background

01:55 The Origins of Yoken's Family Restaurant

05:02 Expansion and Business Ventures

06:42 High School Memories and Berwick Academy

09:36 Restaurant Evolution and Family Legacy

17:17 The Banquet Hall and Community Impact

18:50 Saving the Iconic Sign

23:38 Other Restaurant Ventures

27:00 The Stakeout Restaurant and Crystal Ballroom

28:14 The Big Scoop Ice Cream Place

28:54 Changes in Food Trends

30:00 Thanking Our Sponsors

32:17 Community Involvement and Preservation

37:18 Reflections on Education and Personal Growth

45:00 Portsmouth's Evolution and Urban Renewal

49:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Production Note: There is an unfortunate audio issue in first ten minutes of this episode. It improves at 11:15 if you would prefer to jump ahead.

In episode six, Darryl is joined by Vinnie Marconi Sr, a former teacher turned full-time lobster fisherman. They discuss Vinnie's impact on kids in Atlantic Heights, the challenges and intricacies of the lobstering business, and how Vinnie stays active with pickleball and softball. The conversation also delves into Vinnie's background, family history, and the mentors and family members who influenced his career choice. The episode is filled with nostalgic anecdotes, life lessons, and a deep appreciation for the community and the sea.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:20 Vinnie's Early Life in Portsmouth

07:07 Growing Up in the Lobster Industry

14:17 Sponsorship Break

16:33 Daryl's Teaching and Coaching Journey

24:15 Memorable Moments with Coach

25:33 Softball and Staying Active 28:17 Pickleball Adventures

29:01 Life on the Boat

34:00 Advice for Aspiring Lobstermen

38:39 Closing Thoughts and Farewells

In today's episode, Daryl and Jeff welcome marathon enthusiast Donovan Ingle. The discussion covers Donovan's relocation from Indiana to Portsmouth, career transitions, and his deep passion for running marathons with aspirations to complete the six World Major Marathons.

The conversation navigates through challenges in marathon training, strategies for race day, and essential tips on hydration and nutrition. It includes candid anecdotes about balancing running with a demanding work schedule and upcoming parenthood, highlighting the importance of community, accountability, and consistent training . Donovan’s reflections on the running community, personal goals, and advice for beginners provide insightful perspectives on maintaining a sustainable and passionate running lifestyle.

Topics

00:00 Introduction and Episode Welcome

00:41 Guest Introduction: Donovan Engel

01:10 Donovan's Journey to the Seacoast

05:12 Transition to Marathon Running

09:29 Marathon Training Insights

20:57 Nutrition and Hydration Strategies

25:12 Running Without Music: A Personal Choice

27:55 Accountability in Marathon Training

29:01 Finding Running Communities

30:02 Thanking Our Sponsors

31:06 Balancing Running with Life Changes

32:40 Cross-Training and Injury Prevention

37:44 Coaching and Community Involvement

40:03 Future Running Goals and Aspirations

44:05 The Impact of Running Gear

56:41 Advice for New Runners

58:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

On this episode of Frankly Speaking, Darryl & Jeff are joined by Chris Vetter, Darryl's brother-in-law and now retired longtime member of the New Hampshire State Police. Vetter has held many positions in his 25-plus years with state police, including lieutenant of Troop A, field area captain, and at one point, he served as commander of the New Hampshire State Police SWAT unit.

Tune in to hear about the evolution of Chris' career, from the realization of his childhood aspirations, navigating through various law enforcement roles, to becoming a trooper for the State Police. He shares advice for other troopers early on in their careers and provides a constant message of professionalism, emphasizes the weight of authority and the importance of thorough training to properly handle high-intensity situations that police officers face.

The episode concludes with reflections on his new role as Director of Protective Services at the New Hampshire State House, where he still capitalizes on the skills honed over years of service. Now witnessing his sons embrace the same commitment to law enforcement tradition, Chris offers wisdom about resilience, hard work, and maintaining empathy—even on the most challenging days.

Speaking with Paige Berounsky about her journey through addiction