Join host Greg Boulos on this engaging episode of The Boulos Beat for an in-depth conversation with Chef Harding Lee Smith, a renowned Portland-based chef and restaurateur.

Chef Smith shares his remarkable journey, from his introduction to the restaurant industry at the age of seven to his formal training at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Together, they explore the vision, inspiration, and challenges behind Smith’s five celebrated establishments: The Front Room, The Corner Room, The Grill Room, The Mountain Room, and The Last Run Room.

The discussion also delves into the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, persistent staffing challenges, and the complexities of rising operational costs. Looking to the future, Chef Smith reveals his exciting plans for a new restaurant in Bethel.

Episode 65: Featuring Howard Goldenfarb, founder and president of the RAM Companies

In this episode, guest host Claire Richardson leads an engaging and informative conversation with Howard Goldenfarb, founder of RAM Companies. Mr. Goldenfarb shares his remarkable career trajectory—from his early aspirations in law to becoming a prominent real estate developer beginning in Portland, Maine, in the 1970s.

He offers a detailed account of the challenges and successes surrounding the redevelopment of Exchange Street, a cornerstone project in the revitalization of the Old Port. The discussion expands to his international ventures, including the development of outlet centers across Europe, and culminates with an in-depth look at the ambitious Portland Music Hall project—a 3,300-seat venue set to elevate the city’s cultural and economic landscape.

Throughout the conversation, Mr. Goldenfarb emphasizes the enduring importance of integrity, resilience, and adaptability—principles that have defined his distinguished career.

Episode 64: Featuring Josh Miranda, Owner of Via Vecchia, Papi, Blyth & Burrows and Off-Track Pizza

Join host Greg Boulos for this episode of The Boulos Beat as he sits down with Josh Miranda, a leading restaurateur based in Portland, Maine. In this insightful conversation, Josh reflects on his career path—from his early beginnings at the Village Cafe to his evolution into a successful entrepreneur and owner of four acclaimed restaurants: Via Vecchia, Blyth & Burrows, Papi, and Off-Track Pizza.

Josh shares candid insights into the complexities of managing multiple dining establishments, the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significance of crafting distinctive guest experiences. He also addresses industry-wide challenges, including rising rents and labor costs, and emphasizes the importance of adaptability in a constantly changing market. Looking ahead, Josh discusses his strategic focus on refining and strengthening his existing restaurant portfolio.

Join guest host Samantha Marinko of The Boulos Company on the Boulos Beat as she interviews Jen Millard, CEO and Co-Founder of Mainelove. 

In this episode, Samantha and Jen explore Jen’s journey from Colby College to establishing a company that provides sustainably packaged water sourced from Sebago Lake. Jen underscores the pivotal role of relationships and mentorship, reflecting on her experiences at Colby and Sears. Mainelove strategically utilizes existing brewery infrastructure to produce water in aluminum cans, effectively reducing single-use plastic waste.

Their conversation highlights Mainelove’s mission to create diversified revenue streams for brewers while promoting Maine’s natural resources. Jen discusses the essential qualities for entrepreneurial success—fearlessness, collaboration, and adaptability—as she works toward positioning Mainelove as a prominent regional beverage brand, all while staying true to its commitment to sustainability and community impact.

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he interviews Chef David Turin, a distinguished culinary expert based in Maine, who boasts over 43 years of experience in the industry. Chef Turin has successfully owned and operated several esteemed restaurants, including David's Monument Square, David's Opus 10, and David's 388. David’s exceptional contributions to the culinary world were recognized in 2012 when he was named Chef of the Year and inducted into the Honorable Order of the Golden Toke.

During the interview, Chef Turin shares his remarkable journey, beginning with his education at Cornell University and his first job in the Virgin Islands. He candidly discusses the myriad challenges associated with running restaurants, emphasizing the critical importance of financial planning, treating employees with respect, and maintaining consistency in recipes.

Chef Turin also touched upon his personal experiences with anger management and highlighted his appearance on the Food Network's "Guy's Grocery Games," offering a glimpse into the dynamic and often demanding nature of the culinary profession.

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he sits down with Mike Foley, owner of Foley’s Fitness in Scarborough, Maine. In this episode, Mike shares his journey in the fitness industry from overcoming back surgery in the 1980’s, to locating a site for a gym, to launching Foley’s Fitness in 2019. Today, Foley’s Fitness serves 3,600 members and employs a team of 60 professionals.

Mike also discusses his recent loss of sight in one eye and how stem cell and exosome treatments significantly improved his vision. Tune in for an engaging discussion on location strategies, health, entrepreneurship, and resilience. 

Join guest host Samantha Marinko of The Boulos Company on the Boulos Beat as she interviews Melissa Martens Yaverbaum, Executive Director of Portland Ballet. Melissa shares ways the arts have shaped her life in unexpected ways, given her experiences with different museums, libraries, and cultural organizations. In this episode, Melissa also underscores Portland Ballet's work to engage new communities, build partnerships, and to make ballet approachable to all in Maine. Additionally, Sam and Melissa discuss Portland Ballet’s upcoming performances, including "New Works" and "Sleeping Beauty." 

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he engages with Tim Harrington, Chairman of Atlantic Hospitality, to delve into Tim’s illustrious career in real estate and hospitality.

In this episode, Harrington recounts his early career beginnings in Boston, his subsequent relocation to Maine, and his strategic acquisitions of notable properties such as the Astico, Hidden Pond, and the Claremont Hotel. He offers insights into the ramifications of COVID-19 on his business, underscores the vital role of local banks, and elaborates on his philosophy of property acquisition and renovation.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intrinsic value of real estate ownership and the promising growth potential within Maine's hospitality sector, which Harrington attributes to its distinctive assets and appeal.

In this special memorial edition, we remember Joe Soley, CEO and Founder of Monopoly, LLC, whose remarkable journey from delivering newspapers in New York to becoming a successful real estate investor stands as a beacon of dedication and entrepreneurship.

Joe's career began with humble roots, delivering newspapers and serving in the Coast Guard. His early ventures in Baltimore included significant projects for companies like Black and Decker and Dunkin' Donuts. His move to Maine marked a transformative period, where he developed properties in Camden and Portland, including the iconic Old Port area.

Join us in remembering Joe Soley's legacy in the real estate industry. 

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he delves into the inspiring journey of Gretchen Johnson, who transitioned from a dedicated volunteer and Board Member to the Executive Director of the Center for Grieving Children.

In this episode, Gretchen discusses the Center’s mission to provide volunteer-led, age-specific peer support groups for those navigating grief. She shares her career progression, from her roles in marketing and business development at two prominent Portland law firms to her impactful contributions on the Center’s Board, culminating in her current leadership role as Executive Director.

Additionally, Gretchen and Greg explore the Center's facilities, including the strategic acquisition of a building at 555 Forest Avenue and the profound impact this move has had on the organization.

Tune in to learn more about the Center for Grieving Children's vital work and Gretchen Johnson’s inspiring path of dedication and leadership.