Grounded in Granite

In this episode of Grounded in Granite, we head to Epsom, N.H., for a look inside Old Dogs Go to Helen, a sanctuary for senior, hospice, and special needs dogs and other animals. Founder Helen St. Pierre shares her journey from dog training to creating a haven for dogs in need. It's a welcoming place where they can spend their final days under Helen's care and the companionship of others. ★ Follow Grounded in Granite for more stories that celebrate the people and places that make New Hampshire home. You can also catch Grounded in Granite on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for behind-the-scenes photos and more. #podcast #NHpodcast #NewHampshireLife

In this episode of Grounded in Granite, Renee Blacken of Bethlehem, N.H., shares her inspiring journey as she prepares to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. She discusses the motivations behind her 3,200-mile adventure, the rigorous training and preparation involved, and the importance of community support.

If successful, Renee will become the first American and first solo female to row the Atlantic in the Atlantic Dash. It is a rare feat as there are only two other American women who have ever completed a solo transatlantic row as of January 2026. At 43 years old, Renee would also become the oldest American woman to ever row solo across the Atlantic.

Renee is rowing to support Outdoor Adventuring for Good, a nonprofit organization she founded dedicated to raising awareness and funding for trauma recovery programs in New Hampshire's North Country.

For more information on Outdoor Adventuring for Good, visit https://www.outdooradventuringforgood.org/

★ Follow Grounded in Granite for more stories that celebrate the people and places that make New Hampshire home and follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for behind-the-scenes photos and more.

In this episode of Grounded in Granite, we explore the fascinating story of Ken Lambert, a Beatles enthusiast from Hampton, N.H., who owns lead guitarist George Harrison's childhood home in Liverpool, England, now a Beatles-themed Airbnb.

Discover how Ken transformed this iconic space into a haven for Beatles fans worldwide and hear about his journey co-authoring a book with legendary drummer Alvin Taylor, who once worked with Harrison and other famous musicians.

From the history of the house to the unique experiences of guests, this episode is a must-watch for music lovers and Beatles fans alike. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with nostalgia, music history, and personal anecdotes.

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"I collect stories as opposed to signs."

In this episode of Grounded in Granite, we visit Eli English in Pittsfield, N.H., where his remarkable automobilia collection is housed in a historic barn dating back to the 1700s. Eli shares his lifelong passion for collecting vintage signs and the stories behind each piece, from the Colonial Theater sign to the unique "No Nukes in Our Cukes" sign.

Discover how Eli's collection is more than just signs; it's a tapestry of stories that reflect the rich history and culture of the Granite State. Learn about the meticulous restoration process of the barn and the vintage cars that Eli works on as the owner of Traditional Speed and Custom, preserving the authenticity and charm of each piece.

★ Follow "Grounded in Granite" for more stories that celebrate the people and places that make New Hampshire home and follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for behind-the-scenes photos and more.

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In a world where longevity is often sought but rarely achieved, a vibrant 102-year-old Norma Dodge provides invaluable lessons on living a fulfilling life. In this episode of Grounded in Granite, this retired New Hampshire nurse shares her life experiences, reflections on aging, and the secrets to her longevity from her room at the Ernest P. Barka Assisted Living Community in Brentwood, N.H. From her nursing career to cherished childhood memories, Norma offers wisdom and insights that resonate across generations. She discusses her daily routines, favorite pastimes, and the changes she has witnessed over the years, including the impact of technology on modern life. With a blend of humor and sincerity, Norma emphasizes the importance of staying active, maintaining connections with family, and finding joy in everyday moments.★ Hit the follow button to get more Grounded in Granite content (it doesn't cost anything) and don't forget to follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for updates on future episodes, behind-the-scenes photos and more. #podcast #nhpodcast #NewHampshireLife #centenarian

In this holiday edition of "Grounded in Granite," I embark on a magical journey aboard Santa's Holiday Express train at the Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway, New Hampshire. From the charming Hattie Evans dining car, 23-year-old conductor and train enthusiast Jack Duffin shares the enchanting experience of riding with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elves while they spread festive cheer to passengers of all ages. During the conversation, Jack reflects on his lifelong love of trains and how he’s now living out his childhood dream working for the railroad.This episode also uncovers the rich history of the railroad, the dedication of its staff, and the unique seasonal offerings that make the Conway Scenic Railroad a must-visit destination.★ Hit the follow button to get more Grounded in Granite content and don't forget to follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for updates on future episodes, behind-the-scenes photos and more. #nh #podcast #nhpodcast #NewHampshireLife #railroad

In this episode of "Grounded in Granite," Dan DeMoras, the owner of White Mountains Canning Company, shares his journey from corporate life to establishing a thriving shop in Littleton, New Hampshire. From humble beginnings at farmers markets to a rapidly expanding business with over 340 products, DeMoras talks about his passion for creating a destination that celebrates traditional recipes and innovative flavors. Discover how his dedication and community support have transformed his shop into a beloved local attraction and learn about the challenges and triumphs of growing a small business.★ Hit the follow button to get more Grounded in Granite content and check us out on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for behind-the-scenes photos and more.#nh #podcast #NHpodcast #entrepreneurship

In this episode of Grounded in Granite, we delve into a remarkable journey of restoration that goes beyond classic car mechanics. Steve Ingalls of Fremont, N.H., shares his heartfelt story about restoring a 1978 Chevy Nova police car that once belonged to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Once it was finished, he embarked on a cross-country journey from New Hampshire to California to have the car dedicated in memory of Deputy Walter Hannan Jr., a fallen hero of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department who died in a crash while responding to a call in 1978. It was an emotional trip for Ingalls, who never knew Hannan, but he had an opportunity to meet Hannan’s daughters and former Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Ernie Archuleta, who was also in the patrol car at the time of the fatal crash and survived.Ingalls’ journey of restoring this old police cruiser is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and remembrance. His story illustrates how a classic car restoration can transcend its mechanical components and become a powerful symbol of honor and respect for those who serve and protect. ★ Hit the follow button to get more Grounded in Granite content

In this episode of Grounded in Granite, I travel north to Santa's Village in Jefferson, N.H., to explore the history and magic of this beloved theme park nestled in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Joined by Christian Gainer and Melanie Staley, whose grandparents founded the park, we discuss the park's transformation from a summer attraction to a winter wonderland, the introduction of new rides like the Midnight Flyer, and the unique culture that keeps families returning year after year. The episode also delves into the park's origin story, sparked by a deer encounter, and its ongoing commitment to providing a joyful experience for generations of visitors. ★ Hit the follow button to get more Grounded in Granite content

In this Thanksgiving week episode of Grounded in Granite, I travel to Keene, N.H., to chat with New Hampshire Fish and Game Wildlife Biologist Dan Ellingwood about the fascinating history of wild turkeys in the Granite State.

We explore the disappearance of wild turkeys in the 1800s due to unregulated hunting and habitat changes, and the effort to reintroduce them in the 1970s that became one of the state's greatest wildlife success stories.

The conversation also touches on the behavior of turkeys and some wild encounters, including one story about a woman who used a sheet to fend off a threatening turkey, and the challenges of managing turkey populations in urban areas. ★ Follow for more Grounded in Granite content