It’s Freitag! - Business and Life in the Monadnock Region

25 - Hart Brothers Tree Service, From Fighting Wildfires to Building a Tree Service Business

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Collin and Tim Hart of Hart Brothers Tree Service to discuss their journey from wildland firefighters to business owners. They share how their experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail and fighting fires gave them the confidence to start a tree service, the importance of community trust in their growth, and how they balance equipment investments with maintaining a strong focus on quality and honesty. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, family collaboration, and the great outdoors.

24 - A.J. Kierstead about media, podcasting and Insurance

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with A.J. Kierstead, communications professional and outreach coordinator for the New Hampshire Insurance Department, to discuss balancing a career in public service with media, creative ambitions, and family life. A.J. shares his journey of navigating the evolving landscape of podcasting and media in New Hampshire, while also making time to stay connected to his community and find joy in his work.

23 - Alana Fiero, Making Keene a Launchpad for Young Talent

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Alana Fiero—Freitag Marketing team member and President of the Keene Young Professionals Network—to discuss building community, creating opportunities for young talent, and growing KYPN into a hub for leadership and local impact. Alana also shares her journey from corporate philanthropy to founding Taste of Keene during the pandemic.

22 - Jay Hayston, Leading with Compassion, Data, and Bold Decisions

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Jay Hayston—nonprofit changemaker, data-driven strategist, and CEO of Cedarcrest—to explore how compassionate leadership, bold decisions, and innovative care models are reshaping what’s possible for medically complex children and the teams who support them.

21 - Barb Weisman, From National Nonprofits to Local Impact

In this episode, Jan Ziegler chats with Barb Weisman—food equity advocate, endurance athlete, and Executive Director of the Community Kitchen—to explore how mission-driven leadership and creative collaboration can turn mobile pantries into future food trucks and tackle systemic hunger, all powered by personal passion and community roots.

20 - Charles Oropallo, Staying Local in a Global Industry

In this episode, Jan Ziegler chats with Charles Oropallo—Marine Corps veteran, early internet pioneer, and founder of CharlesWorks—to explore how local trust can drive long-term success in a global industry. From building one of the first dial-up BBS systems in the 70s to running a transparent, community-rooted web business, Charles shares stories, lessons, and the value of aesthetics in a digital world.

19 - Jeff Saari, Building Healthier Teams Through Authentic Leadership

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Jeff Saari, a leadership coach and “business therapist” based in Keene, NH, to talk about burnout, authentic leadership, and building healthier companies from the inside out. From his early journey through depression and meditation retreats to becoming a trusted advisor for business owners and teams, Jeff shares powerful insights on workplace culture, coaching that actually works, and why knowing your strengths can change everything.

18 - Greg Curry, Top 1% Mortgage Lender nationwide. In Keene, of all places

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Greg Curry, a nationally ranked Mortgage Loan Originator based in Keene, NH, to talk about career pivots, trust-based business, and thriving in a competitive market. From his background in hospitality to building a top 1% mortgage career, Greg shares candid insights on client relationships, today’s real estate landscape, and balancing high performance with family life.

17 - Steve Fortier, Strengthening Rural Economies Across New Hampshire

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Steve Fortier, Administrator of Rural Economic Development at NH’s Department of Business and Economic Affairs, to talk about collaboration over competition, workforce challenges, and the future of local economies. From his path through nonprofit leadership to supporting manufacturers in Keene, Steve shares practical insights on building stronger, more connected rural communities.

16 – Mark DiPietro on How to Market Higher Education

In this episode, Jan Ziegler sits down with Mark DiPietro, Vice President of Marketing at Franklin Pierce University, to talk about the changing world of higher ed marketing—and how colleges can cut through the noise. From his transition from journalism to PR to university leadership, to the return of direct mail and building brand around what makes Franklin Pierce unique, Mark shares thoughtful insights on leading with strategy in a competitive space.