In this episode of My Story Vault, Dr. Dennis Rebelo sits down with Roger Questel—woodcarver, sculptor, inventor, and founder of Questech—for a vivid and often humorous journey through a life shaped by curiosity, craftsmanship, and creative risk-taking. Born with dyslexia and drawn early to the visual world, Roger found his voice not in words but in wood, carving objects in a Manhattan apartment with a Swiss army knife. What began as playful experimentation turned into high-end commissions, including the grand staircase of Ralph Lauren’s Madison Avenue flagship and intricate period carvings for the Getty family.

Faced with the physical and financial limits of handcrafting, Roger invented a new composite material—an innovative blend of metal powders and ceramics suspended in resin—that gave rise to his patented manufacturing process. That technology led to the founding of Questech, which grew from a single studio into a fully automated factory in Vermont, supplying bronze-look tiles, wall plates, and architectural trim to companies like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Roger credits his growth to the power of mentorship, learning-by-doing, and never being afraid to ask questions—hundreds of them.

Now living in North Adams and building a new art studio at BIC Works @  Mass MoCA, Roger reflects on the arc of his life: from urban storefronts to rural barns, solo labor to large-scale production, and youthful experimentation to sustained innovation. He shares why his current chapter—surrounded by creatives, collaborating with the Berkshire Innovation Center, and mentoring others—feels like a return to the energy of art school, full of promise and new beginnings. For Roger, the act of making—whether a sculpture, invention or a company—has always been about honoring the joy of process and inspiring others to do the same.

Links:

Roger Questel Portfolio:

 https://studioquestel.com

Quest Tech:

 https://questtech.com

 (or insert if available)

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Narrative Research Group:

 https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios.

Hope Ross Gibaldi joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo to reflect on her journey from a young parent experimenting with crafts and Mary Kay to a recognized leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. Now the Director for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the 68 Center for Career Exploration at Williams College, Hope discusses the importance of experiential learning and programmatic inclusion in liberal arts settings. Her story traces back to a transformative gap year in Argentina, where she became fluent in Spanish and gained a global perspective that continues to shape her work.

Hope recounts how she and her husband Chris launched a preschool-style sports program, Learn in Motion, after identifying a gap in programming for young children. A $10,000 community development grant helped them formalize the business and shift from parent-facing services to institutional partnerships. This experience, combined with her participation in and facilitation of entrepreneurship accelerators, deepened her interest in building entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Throughout the episode, Hope emphasizes the power of doing, the role of reflection, and the need for multiple entry points into innovation—especially for students who don’t identify as traditional entrepreneurs. From starting a craft business to leading Valley Venture Mentors through the pandemic, Hope’s path exemplifies persistence, curiosity, and a desire to help others uncover their own impact.

Hope Ross Gibaldi:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hoperossgibaldi/

Learn in Motion:
https://learninmotion.org/

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program:
https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Narrative Research Group:

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

In this rich and personal episode of My Story Vault, Jenny Wright—Executive Director of the North Adams Partnership—joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo to reflect on the unexpected journey that brought her to community leadership in the Northern Berkshires. Raised in Altoona, Pennsylvania, Jenny describes a childhood marked by solitude, a love of books, and disciplined engagement with classical music and representational drawing. After facing a period of personal struggle in her late teens, Jenny found her way back to herself through structure, daily routines, and a deep reconnection with the public library—a place she credits with rediscovering an engaged life worth living. The library saved her life.

Jenny recounts how a single phrase from her piano teacher—“You’re better than this”—helped shift her trajectory and ultimately led to a design education at the Corcoran School in Washington, DC. Her career path, shaped by early roles in brand systems and design architecture, emphasized thoughtful listening and user-centered design. These skills now serve her in her current role, where she helps reconnect and align the city’s anchor institutions—MASS MoCA, MCLA, and the City of North Adam’s downtown community—through programs like the Reconnecting Communities initiative.

Throughout the conversation, Jenny reflects on her strengths as a “glue” figure—someone who helps others perform at their best by observing, listening, and arranging people and ideas into meaningful configurations. Whether drawing photorealistic birds, performing Rachmaninoff, or helping North Adams envision its future, Jenny's story reveals the power of incremental discipline, grounded optimism, and genuine curiosity.

Links:
North Adams Partnership:
https://northadamspartnership.org/

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program:
https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Narrative Research Group:
https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios.

Morgan Everett joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo to reflect on a multidimensional journey from law firms in Salt Lake City to the creative economy of North Adams, Massachusetts. Now the Director of Public Initiatives and Real Estate at MASS MoCA, Morgan shares how his early interests in art, architecture, and human connection eventually found expression in the nonprofit and cultural development space. Raised as the youngest in a blended family, Morgan was shaped by inclusive values, fluid social groups, and a deep-seated curiosity about people and place.

He candidly recounts the moment he stepped away from a path toward law school—despite years of preparation—to pursue an MPA and ultimately enter the arts sector through the Sundance Institute. Morgan discusses how trusting intuition, observing patterns, and valuing mentorship helped him pivot toward work that truly aligned with his passions. His experiences in Utah laid a foundation for his work at MASS MoCA, where he now helps foster strategic, community-driven development rooted in partnership and placemaking.

Throughout the conversation, Morgan emphasizes the importance of listening to internal signals, embracing non-linear career paths, and staying open to rediscovering earlier passions. His reflections on building both physical spaces and human relationships remind us that impact is rarely accidental—it’s constructed, step by step, in tandem with others.

Morgan Everett:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-everett-7291183a/

MASS MoCA:
https://massmoca.org

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program:
https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Narrative Research Group:
https://narrativeresearchgroup.org

For questions or insights, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

His journey is a story of innovation, leadership, and community impact. As the CEO of Boyd Biomedical, Stephen’s teams have helped design, build, and launch groundbreaking biomedical solutions. But his path began much earlier, with a childhood defined by curiosity, exploration, and an entrepreneurial spirit. From his first painting business in high school to studying psychology and religion at Middlebury College, Stephen learned the value of persistence, adaptability, and collective wisdom.

In this episode, Stephen reflects on his journey, sharing how his diverse experiences shaped his leadership style and his approach to building resilient communities. From his early entrepreneurial ventures, inspired by his family’s business acumen, to his college years where he balanced academics with a passion for skiing and outdoor exploration, Stephen reveals how a spirit of adventure fueled his drive to innovate.

Stephen also delves into his professional evolution, from working in finance in New York City to returning to the Berkshires to take on leadership at Boyd Biomedical. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of steering a family business into the biomedical field, emphasizing the importance of building strong, collaborative teams and fostering a culture of continuous learning. His philosophy of "stronger for the experience" serves as a guiding principle, highlighting the power of growth through adversity.

A key theme of the episode is Stephen’s belief in the power of collective wisdom. Stephen’s dedication to fostering collaboration across generations and industries makes this episode a thought-provoking exploration of what it takes to build lasting community impact in a world of complexity.

Links:

Boyd Biomedical: https://www.boydbiomedical.com/

Berkshire Innovation Center: https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/

Narrative Research Group: https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

In this episode of My Story Vault, we sit down with Giovanna Fessenden-Fairbank—intellectual property attorney, strategist, technologist, and advocate for women in STEM.

From early experiences teaching herself programming on a Commodore 64, Giovanna's path has always been about decoding complex systems—whether it’s a line of code, the U.S. patent system, or the undercurrents of what’s justice in the tech world.

She brings a rare blend of technical and legal expertise, holding a Master’s in Computer Science and a J.D. with a focus on patent law. Giovanna empowers inventors, founders, and companies to secure their intellectual property with purpose and foresight.

We explore how motherhood decision-points along her journey, the early calling to a clear professional identity, why she believes storytelling is essential to legal advocacy, and what it means to protect your ideas in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Giovanna  speaks candidly about the people, experiences, networks and mindsets that helped her not just survive, but thrive.

Whether you're an inventor, entrepreneur, or someone reflecting on how to reclaim your voice and value, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and inspiration.

Guest Name: Giovanna Fessenden-Fairbank
Title: Digital IP Counsel
Website: www.giovannafessenden.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/giovanna-fessenden-fairbank-6582744

Partner Organizations & Programs:
Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program
Narrative Research Group: narrativeresearchgroup.org

Contact for Follow-up:

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon at:

Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

Tom Thalmann’s story is one of exceptional devotion—not just to a car, but to an ethos of presence, longevity, and meaningful exploration. A biotech advisor and Porsche enthusiast, Tom joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo to share how a single 911 Turbo has become both a travel companion and a mirror for life’s deeper lessons.

From his early fascination with the form and function of Porsche design to his 730,000+ mile journey (and counting), Tom talks about preserving engineering as art and technology, building social capital across Porsche communities, and how driving connects him to both inner peace and interpersonal connection.

This episode invites listeners to think beyond utility: what does it mean to hold on? What happens when we turn sense-making into meaning-making, and why does devotion to an object—or practice—make us more human? Whether you're a car lover or a seeker of purpose, this ride is unforgettable.

Porsche Club of America (PCA): https://www.pca.org/ 
Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program
Narrative Research Group: https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy

Entrepreneur, social worker, and person in long-term recovery, Alex Brown joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo in the Vault to reflect on a life shaped by family legacy, disruption, and deep care.

Raised in the iconic Berkshire property Blantyre and immersed in hospitality from an early age, Alex shares how his mother’s attention to non-drinking guests—mocktails, hot chocolate menus, and sparkling water tastings—inspired his own vision for inclusive hospitality. After battling addiction, losing his mother, and relapsing while traveling, Alex realized that for millions of people, hotels and restaurants feel like hostile environments.

That realization fueled the birth of Recover Hospitality—a company that certifies and markets sober-friendly venues, while also supporting hospitality staff in recovery. In this powerful conversation, Alex talks about stigma in the restaurant industry, Gen Z’s sober-curious mindset, and how redefining hospitality can be both profitable and deeply human.

This episode is a call to innovate, to welcome, and to reimagine the experience of being truly seen and supported—on the road, at the table, and in our lives.

Recover Hospitality: https://recoverhospitality.com/
Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program
Narrative Research Group: https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

Justin McKennon’s journey reflects a blend of curiosity, perseverance, and self-leadership. Growing up in Springfield, MA, Justin navigated a complex childhood, shaped by the guidance of his Big Brother - from the Big Brothers Big Sisters program - and his passion for learning. His pursuit of knowledge led him to a career as Principal Scientist at EMA, where he bridges technical innovation with leadership, managing space testing and research in Pittsfield, MA.

In this insightful episode, Justin discusses how he balances his professional work in electromagnetic effects and space testing with his personal roles as a father, husband, and community member. Through candid stories and reflections, Justin shares his thoughts on leadership, community involvement, and the importance of being genuinely passionate about one’s work. His enthusiasm for science and commitment to community make this episode a captivating listen.

• EMA - Electromagnetic Applications: EMA Website
• Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: BIC Accelerator
• Narrative Research Group: NRG Website
• For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy

Daniel Bennett's journey exemplifies dedication, creativity, and adaptability. From his early days insisting on playing the saxophone to his studies at Roberts Wesleyan and the New England Conservatory, Daniel's life is a testament to following one’s passion and purpose. In this engaging episode, Daniel discusses how his spiritual beliefs and creative instincts shape his work both as a touring jazz musician and educator.

Through captivating stories of improvisation, performance, and teaching, Daniel emphasizes the importance of being fully present, serving others, and embracing the unexpected notes life presents. Whether performing late-night gigs or parenting early mornings, Daniel shares insights on how balancing life's many roles enriches his music, teaching, and connection to audiences.

Links:

Daniel Bennett Group: https://danielbennettgroup.net

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Narrative Research Group: https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

Produced by Nate Christy