In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Taylor Robbins, Vice President, Business Banking Relationship Manager at M&T Bank, for a conversation that puts relationships at the center of commercial banking.

Taylor shares what it truly means to be a relationship banker and why trust, timing, and collaboration matter long before a business owner ever needs financing. Together, we unpack how commercial banking differs from residential lending, when homeowners and small investors should start thinking commercially, and where the gray areas often create confusion, especially with multi-family properties.

We also dive into Taylor’s experience as a powerhouse networker, woman, and young professional in Western Massachusetts. We talk candidly about building authentic relationships, showing up consistently for the local business community, and creating long-term success without being salesy.

And stay tuned to the end of the episode, where Taylor shares an exciting update on her latest community volunteer leadership accomplishment—another example of how she lives out her commitment to Western Massachusetts beyond banking.

Real people. Real relationships. Real estate on both sides of the lending conversation.

In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Felicia Colcombe, recent homeowner and owner of Anytime Nutrition, to talk about what it really takes to grow roots and a business at the same time. *****Felicia shares her firsthand experience navigating both residential and commercial real estate while running a thriving nutrition business in Southampton. From balancing entrepreneurship with the homebuying process to the bigger-picture reality that accessible housing is essential for local businesses to survive and grow, this conversation gets real fast. *****If you’ve ever wondered how homeownership, entrepreneurship, and community are deeply connected—or you’re a business owner thinking about your next move—this episode is for you. ****Real stories. Real people. Real estate—right here in Western Mass.

In this episode of Real People Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Applied Mortgage loan originator and longtime investor Jeff LaPointe, the definition of cool, calm, and collected — and someone who has quietly built serious expertise through more than 15 years as a landlord of six rental units, 14 years in banking, and now serving over 100 homeowners with consistent five star service. Jeff shares the practical lessons real estate has taught him, how he helps buyers navigate today’s market with confidence, and why staying steady and people focused has been the key to both his investing success and his rapid rise as a top mortgage professional in Western Mass.

In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, host Lindsay Barron LaBonte sits down with Western Massachusetts real-estate pro Micki Sanderson to explore what happens when deep local roots, genuine listening, and strategy all come together to serve clients at the highest level. Micki isn’t just another REALTOR® — she brings 18 years of Western Mass experience, a people-first approach rooted in connection and communication, and a genuine ability to listen to clients’ needs, wants, and wishes to help them find the neighborhood — and the life — that truly fits. We dig into why having a team who knows the Valley inside and out, from zoning to hidden gems, can make all the difference, and how listening well translates into turning home-dreams into real keys. Tune in for: Real stories of local market fluency and what it means for buyers & sellers The people-first mindset that elevates the experience beyond a transaction How thoughtful strategy and full-service commitment shape outcomes you’ll feel, not just see Why community engagement, local knowledge, and authenticity aren’t extras, they’re the backbone of smart real estate. Whether you’re actively buying, selling, or simply curious how to connect to place (and people) more deeply, you’ll leave this episode with clarity and inspiration. Because real estate isn’t just about property, it’s about people and building the life you want.

In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay Barron LaBonte chats with Nick Stoddard — Executive Sales Agent with Comparion Insurance Agency (a Liberty Mutual Company), proud Holyoke local, and four-time Elite Leader placing him in the top 1% nationwide.
Nick brings a fresh perspective on insurance after the home purchase — not as something to worry about, but as an opportunity to stay ahead, protect your investment, and even save money in the long run.
We cover:
What’s changing in the insurance world and why it matters.
How post-purchase inspections are helping homeowners spot small fixes before they become big problems.
Simple ways to make sure your policy is working for you.
Why transparency and partnership with your agent can make all the difference.
Nick’s style is straightforward, down to earth, and genuinely focused on protecting what matters most. His advice is clear: with the right information and the right agent, insurance doesn’t have to be stressful — it can be part of a smart, long-term homeownership strategy.
Tune in, feel confident about your coverage, and step into homeownership with peace of mind.

In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with industry veteran Peter Ruffini to dig into two of the most talked-about shifts in real estate — the 2024 NAR settlement and the new 2025 home inspection changes in Massachusetts. Peter breaks down what these updates mean for agents, buyers, and sellers, and how professionals can adapt with clarity and confidence. He also highlights the often-overlooked distinction between training, coaching, and mentoring, and why understanding the difference can make or break your success in this changing market. A must-listen for anyone who wants to stay informed — and stay ahead — in today’s evolving real estate world.

Meet Theresa Ryan — LA real estate pro turned Western Mass powerhouse. After relocating east during the pandemic, Theresa brought her competitive edge, investor savvy, and infectious enthusiasm to one of the hottest markets in New England. In this episode, she shares how she rebuilt her business from the ground up, why Western Mass is a the perfect spot for smart investors, and how she balances real estate with running CrèmeBru.LA, her locally loved dessert venture with her husband. A true story of reinvention, resilience, and community connection.

In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Tom Crossman, a true Amherst original whose real estate journey started with a $90,000 first home—and a whole lot of sweat equity. From saving up dollar by dollar (and crate by crate) to becoming a seasoned property manager, landlord, and community leader, Tom proves that success in real estate isn’t handed to you—it’s built through hard work, persistence, and heart.
Tom shares the insider secrets, tips, and tricks he’s learned from over a decade in property management—covering everything from smart home maintenance moves to landlord lessons you won’t find in a textbook. Beyond the business, he’s the voice of Amherst High School football, a youth coach, and a proud board member for Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity, always giving back to the community that helped shape him.
Tune in for a conversation packed with real-world advice, small-town heart, and a reminder that whether you’re buying, maintaining, or mentoring—it’s all about putting in the work and paying it forward.

In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Brian Megliola, founder of The Megliola Group, to explore what it really means to go beyond the transaction in real estate. From buying and selling to flipping, leasing, and property management, Brian’s team has created a full-circle model that touches every corner of the housing industry. But it’s their heart-led nonprofit, Leo’s Home, that truly sets them apart—providing support, stability, and second chances for those in need of housing help.

Tune in for an inspiring look at how one Western Mass company proves that real estate done right isn’t just about properties—it’s about people, purpose, and creating lasting impact.