Vermonters In Business

Vermont's short-term rental industry is misunderstood, controversial, and constantly evolving. In this episode of Vermonters in Business, we sit down with Julie Marks — founder and owner of VTSTRA (Vermont Short-Term Rental Alliance). Julie is not just an advocate; she’s a scientist and a watchdog for truth in marketing, helping consumer brands back up their claims with hard evidence.Julie pulls no punches as she tackles the biggest myths and rumors about STRs (short-term rentals) in Vermont head-on. Who are the people behind these rentals? What do they actually contribute to the local economy and communities? And why are false claims — whether in marketing or about STRs — her ultimate pet peeve?Whether you’re a business owner, a Vermont local, or simply curious about the economic impact of STRs, you’ll want to hear Julie’s sharp, science-driven perspective.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations with Vermont’s most forward-thinking business leaders.

🎙️ Episode Featuring: Lauren Palmieri MarkCo-Owner of Arrowhead Lodge | Milton, VT🌐 www.arrowheadlodgevt.comIn this episode, we're joined by Lauren Palmieri Mark, co-owner of the beloved Arrowhead Lodge in Milton, Vermont. Originally from Rochester, NY, Lauren shares the incredible story behind launching Arrowhead Lodge—just weeks before the world shut down in early 2020. Despite the timing, the lodge recently celebrated its 5-year anniversary and continues to thrive as a community hub for food, drink, and connection.Lauren dives into:☕ The vision behind Arrowhead Lodge🏗️ The unsung heroes—staff members and the original building owners—who brought it to life🌲 What it’s like running a business in small-town Vermont❤️ And the resilience it takes to survive and grow through uncertain timesWhether you're a local, a traveler, or a fellow entrepreneur, Lauren's story is packed with heart, gratitude, and some seriously inspiring takeaways.📍 Location: 2 Main Street, Milton, VT 05468📞 (561) 419-1725📧 [email protected]🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment to support local stories like Lauren’s!#VermontBusiness #ArrowheadLodge #WomenInBusiness #MiltonVT #Entrepreneurship #VermontPodcasts #SmallBusinessJourney #HospitalityStories

Our newest guest, Clinton Calderwood, is the entrepreneurial force behind Vermont Dryer Duct, a specialized service business that’s growing fast and filling an important niche in home safety and maintenance. With a background in mechanical engineering, Clinton never expected to find himself in this line of work—but what started as a side job quickly turned into a full-time passion.After years in the engineering world, Clinton discovered a surprising gap in the market for dryer vent cleaning and safety services. What began as a small project on the side rapidly gained momentum, eventually leading him to leave his career and dedicate himself fully to Vermont Dryer Duct. Now, he's applying his technical knowledge and problem-solving mindset to help homeowners across Vermont stay safe and energy-efficient.In this episode, Clinton shares how an unexpected opportunity turned into a thriving business, what he's learned from building a service-based company from the ground up, and why taking a leap of faith can sometimes lead you exactly where you’re meant to be. Tune in for a conversation about risk, reinvention, and the unexpected paths to success.

Our newest guest, Adam Matth, is the enthusiastic and community-driven Director of South Burlington Recreation and Parks. Originally from Wisconsin, Adam brings a fresh and energetic perspective to Vermont’s recreation scene, blending a background in professional sports with a passion for inclusive, innovative community programming.Before stepping into his role in South Burlington, Adam built a vibrant career in the world of athletics—working with organizations like the Vermont Lake Monsters, the Houston Astros, and UVM Athletics. That experience helped shape his leadership style: dynamic, people-focused, and driven by impact. Now based in South Burlington, he’s leading the charge on exciting new initiatives like the July Fitness Series, Park Hop Brews, Girl in Sports Day Clinic, Adaptive Sports Programming, SBRP Kids Club, and the Social Pulse Young Adult Social Group.In this episode, Adam shares how his journey from baseball stadiums to municipal recreation has fueled his commitment to creating meaningful, accessible programs for all ages. Whether it’s organizing clinics for young athletes or launching inclusive events for the wider community, Adam’s mission is clear—recreation should be for everyone.Tune in to hear his story, learn about the creativity behind South Burlington’s most exciting events, and get inspired by how recreation can transform communities from the inside out.

Our newest guest, Taice Perrotti, is the passionate founder behind Archery Close, a stylish and thoughtfully curated fashion boutique based in the heart of Stowe, Vermont. With no formal background in fashion, Taice transformed a lifelong passion into a dream career—pivoting from roles in database management, fundraising, and startup CRM work to opening her own shop. True to her personal rhythm of changing careers every seven years, she's now four years into Archery Close and thriving in a community that’s as creative and inspiring as she is.A longtime lover of Vermont, Taice spent her childhood summers in Stowe, dreaming of one day calling it home. Years later, a leap during the pandemic made that dream a reality. In this episode, she shares her entrepreneurial journey, the unexpected twists that led her to fashion retail, and her deep appreciation for Stowe’s collaborative, supportive business community. Oh, and in her next life? She’d love to be a chef.Tune in to hear her story, get inspired by her leap of faith, and learn how Archery Close is shaping Vermont’s fashion-forward future.https://archeryclose.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopNGa9XQThReOG9nU6B39h3ncgBWWNUPFDNugmY7CHPGsrMt0Ya

Our new guest, Connor Timmons, is the dedicated Executive Director of HomeShare Vermont, a nonprofit organization committed to fostering meaningful connections through shared housing. Based in Vermont, HomeShare Vermont helps individuals find safe, affordable housing while providing companionship and mutual support. Their innovative program matches home providers with home seekers, creating mutually beneficial living arrangements that empower people to remain in their homes while offering affordable housing options to those in need. By promoting independence, reducing isolation, and building stronger communities, HomeShare Vermont is redefining how we think about housing and caregiving. Learn more about their impactful work and how you can get involved by visiting their website!https://www.homesharevermont.org/

Our new guest, Katie Frederick, is the driving force behind Applied Solutions Consulting (ASC), a Vermont-based firm dedicated to helping businesses reduce risk and foster a culture of workplace safety. ASC takes a proactive approach to workplace safety, offering services like management involvement, employee training, OSHA compliance reviews, and on-site pre-OSHA inspections. These strategies not only protect employees and assets but also save companies valuable time and money. By ensuring employees feel safe and valued, ASC helps organizations boost performance, productivity, and worker retention while safeguarding their bottom line. Discover how ASC can transform your workplace on their website!https://ascllcvt.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiefredericksafety/

Our new guest Alison Davis, specializes in empowering businesses to achieve their full potential through strategic capital solutions. Based in Vermont, the firm Quantam Leap Capital is dedicated to providing innovative funding strategies tailored to each client's unique needs. Known for its personalized approach and commitment to fostering growth, Quantum Leap Capital helps businesses navigate financial challenges and seize opportunities. Discover more about their services and expertise on their website.

The Tipsy Pickle, owned by Angela Chicoine, offers a unique selection of gourmet pickles infused with alcohol, such as gin, bourbon, and rum. Based in Vermont, the business creates distinctive flavors like Maple Rum and Double Garlic Lush. The brand is recognized for combining artisanal pickling with creative twists, making it a favorite for those looking for a bold, fun food experience. You can explore their products and learn more on their website: https://thetipsypickle.com/

Our latest episode is out now and it features Barb Salg from Sterling Ridge Resort! In this episode, we’re excited to feature Barb Salg, co-owner of Sterling Ridge Resort in Vermont! Located in the Green Mountains, just minutes from Smugglers’ Notch, Burlington, and Stowe, this log cabin resort is the ideal setting for romantic getaways, family vacations, weddings, and corporate retreats.https://www.sterlingridgeresort.com/Tune in to discover how Barb and Sterling Ridge Resort are making a difference in Vermont's business landscape!