My Story Vault with Dr. Dennis Rebelo

My Story Vault: Building a Career in Microelectronics at 22

Thu, 5 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Jordan Callahan, a lifelong Berkshire resident, reflects on his journey from an energetic student at Pine Cobble School to Lead Manufacturing Technician at Noble Carbon, a microelectronics clean tech company developing smart circuit breakers. After choosing McCann Technical School in eighth grade, Jordan immersed himself in computer-assisted design, exploring mechanical engineering, architecture, and animation before focusing on mechanical design. He recalls designing projects like a prototype waffle maker and discovering early on that building and understanding how things work energized him.

Jordan’s path shifted during his senior year when COVID disrupted his planned co-op experience at General Dynamics. Instead of heading directly into a defense manufacturing role, he worked at Advanced Auto Parts alongside friends, gaining early workforce experience and learning how to navigate workplace conflict and advocate for himself. A family connection eventually introduced him to the Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC), where he began working with a member company focused on ergonomic solutions and 3D printing.

Through the BIC Manufacturing Academy and later the MIT-designed TechAMP Technologist Program, Jordan deepened both his technical and leadership skills. He credits those programs with strengthening his adaptability, self-leadership, and willingness to commit to long-term growth. While participating in TechAMP, he was recruited by Noble Carbon co-founder Jared Lebos and stepped into a full-time role. Today, Jordan balances hands-on manufacturing responsibilities with advanced coursework, earning 28 college credits toward a mechatronics degree while continuing to grow within the clean tech sector. His story highlights an alternative pathway that blends vocational training, industry experience, and higher education.

Links:

Jordan Callahan – Noble Carbon:

https://noblecarbon.io/

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

My Story Vault: Amanda Zepka on Integrity, Construction, and Being More Than One Thing

Thu, 5 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Amanda Zepka joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo in the Vault to reflect on a life shaped by movement, observation, and values-driven decision-making. Born and raised in rural Savoy, Massachusetts, Amanda grew up immersed in imagination, outdoor play, reading, and film, while dancing competitively from age three through high school. Dance became both a discipline and a form of expression, shaping how she understands rhythm, collaboration, and embodiment.

Amanda attended Emerson College with plans to pursue film, drawn to storytelling and creative production. Internships with Warner Brothers and Paramount Pictures offered industry exposure, but her time in Los Angeles revealed an environment that felt inauthentic to her values. Graduating during the recession, Amanda moved to Chicago, where years of juggling multiple part-time jobs prompted a deeper reckoning with what mattered most. A pivotal visit home, marked by seeing her father’s aging firsthand, clarified her desire to return to family and community.

After moving back to the Berkshires, Amanda began working at Adams Plumbing and Heating, gaining firsthand insight into growing a family-run construction business. She later joined Souliere & Zepka Construction, where she now serves as President alongside her brother and father. Amanda describes learning to translate institutional knowledge, ask questions without ego, and build trust through respect for experienced tradespeople.

The conversation explores Amanda’s role in building the Greylock Glen Outdoor Center, a net-zero public building at the base of Mount Greylock, which she continues to volunteer at. She reflects on integrity as a guiding principle, the importance of collaboration, and her belief that people can be more than one thing. Today, Amanda balances leading a construction firm with teaching dance, serving on the Adams Theater board, and intentionally choosing where she invests her time and energy.

Links:

Souliere & Zepka Construction:

https://souliereandzepka.com/

Greylock Glen Outdoor Center:

http://greylockglenresort.com/

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program:

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Narrative Research Group:

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

My Story Vault: Juxtaposition of Trauma and Identity: Physician/patient, Teacher/student with Amy Sosne

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:17:02 +0000

In this episode of My Story Vault, Amy Sosne joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo to reflect on a life shaped by trauma, resilience, and an ongoing commitment to trauma-informed education. A medical doctor, author, and educator at Williams College, Amy traces her story from growing up in New Jersey through her academic path at Williams, Mount Sinai, and psychiatry residency, where her lived experiences began to profoundly reshape her understanding of mental health, care, and institutional systems.

Amy discusses her early exposure to childhood trauma and how dissociation, hyper-efficiency, and achievement became survival strategies. She shares how these patterns followed her into medical training, culminating in burnout, misdiagnosis, and repeated hospitalizations that ultimately led her to step away from residency. One triggering encounter with a patient set her back to her traumatized self and caused her to question her ability to continue as a physician. This trigger led to a breakdown of her identity, which had long suppressed her traumatized younger self. No longer able to be a solid physician and resident, she became a patient. Over a series of psychiatric misdiagnoses—resulting from her inability to process and voice her trauma—and repeated hospitalizations, she ultimately decided to step away during her second year of her psychiatry residency.

Through candid reflection, Amy describes how the healthcare system often failed to fully recognize trauma histories, both in patients and in clinicians themselves.

The conversation explores Amy’s pivot toward education and her work teaching college students and supporting elementary school outreach programs in North Adams. Central to her approach is the concept of a “mindfulness toolkit,” which she frames as learning to be one’s own first responder. Using the metaphor of an “inner tree,” Amy explains how roots, trunk, and branches represent life circumstances, core stability, and chosen pathways, including how loss, injury, or disruption does not destroy the whole self.

Amy also reflects on writing her memoir, A World Turned Upside Down; A Memoir of Healing, and her mindfulness guide, Your Inner Tree; Building a Mindfulness Toolkit - Yourself as First Responder, describing the emotional impact of authorship, the limits of resilience narratives, and the need for radical acceptance. She speaks openly about ongoing institutional challenges, professional evaluation systems, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect one’s mental health. Throughout the episode, Amy emphasizes the necessity of trauma-informed lenses in education, healthcare, and organizational life, grounding her insights firmly in lived experience rather than abstraction.

Links:

Amy Sosne – Your Inner Tree
Amy Sosne – A World Turned Upside Down

Amy Sosne Consulting (site has links to buy books, blog, and info)

amysosne.com

Berkshire Innovation Center:

www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com

Narrative Research Group:

narrativeresearchgroup.org

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

My Story Vault: The MCLA Storypath of Dr. Josh Mendel

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:20:50 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Joshua Mendel, Chief of Staff at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), joins Dr. Dennis Rebelo to trace a life shaped by service, community commitment, and long-standing ties to the Berkshires. Josh begins by revisiting his early childhood in Adams, where outdoor exploration, a tight-knit community, and supportive parents helped form the foundations of curiosity and relationship-building that continue to guide his work today. He shares memories of growing up alongside friends who later became surgeons, professors, and creators—early indicators of the environment that shaped his values.

Josh describes his pathway from college student to leader in higher education, beginning with pivotal experiences at Assumption University. A key turning point emerged through his involvement with campus ministry and the Mexico Mission program, where immersion in service work and life within an Otomí community offered lessons in humility, reflection, and the power of shared responsibility. These experiences became anchor memories that still guide his decision-making, reminding him to slow down, observe, and lead with awareness.

After earning undergraduate and graduate degrees at Assumption and working in student affairs at Endicott College, Josh returned to the Berkshires to join MCLA. His roles evolved across admissions, transfer support, advancement, and program development, including helping re-establish the college’s MBA program. He explains how his work blends student success, faculty support, regional partnerships, and community connections—an approach rooted in understanding people, aligning values, and ensuring that outside organizations contribute positively to student experience. Josh also recounts his first collaboration with the Berkshire Innovation Center and how trust, follow-through, and careful relationship-building shaped his involvement.

Throughout the episode, he reflects on MCLA’s mission as a public liberal arts institution and its national recognition for social mobility, emphasizing the college’s ability to support students who are determined to create better futures for themselves and their families. In the final portion of the conversation, Josh speaks about fatherhood, describing how he and his wife nurture the interests of their twins through exploration, learning, and shared experiences. For Josh, service extends from his professional life into his parenting, and he wants to be known most for being a good dad.

Links

MCLA: https://www.mcla.edu/

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

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

For questions or insights: Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org

My Story Vault: Why Every Story Matters

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this special solo episode of My Story Vault, Dr. Dennis Rebelo steps out from behind the interviewer’s chair to reflect on the purpose and impact of the podcast series. He explains why he and the team dedicate extensive time and resources to uncovering compelling narratives—stories that guests often don’t realize hold deep professional and personal meaning. Drawing from examples such as Rich Peters, a truck driver who became a chief scientist at SABIC, Dr. Rebelo reveals how the podcast has helped community members, coworkers, and families see individuals in new ways.

Throughout the episode, he highlights how students, teachers, and guidance counselors have responded to these stories, noting that the podcast’s accessible narratives can ignite inspiration during moments of uncertainty. Dr. Rebelo describes the technical and human elements involved in the story-unpacking process, from creating generative dialogue to setting conditions that help guests articulate formative experiences he calls “blue dots.” He discusses resistance, creativity, adaptability, and self-leadership—central concepts that arise in the narratives shared in the Vault.

He also outlines the recurring questions he asks each guest: What were you raised for? What do you want to be known for? What are you doing about it now? These closing questions help link past experiences to present identity and future direction. Dr. Rebelo reflects on decision points, the role of receptivity, and the positive “viral effect” of narrative coherence as guests integrate their stories into their lives. He closes by encouraging listeners, educators, and career centers to use these stories as tools for learning and reflection, emphasizing that every story matters and can help illuminate a path toward understanding and possibility.

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

Links

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

My Story Vault: Rich Peters on Learning, Leading, and Living Fully

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:52:27 +0000

From the Catskills to Colorado to the Berkshires, Rich Peters’ story is one of discovery, reinvention, and service. A former professional truck driver turned Chief Scientist at SABIC, Rich reflects on a life that proves learning doesn’t follow a straight line. Growing up in a working-class family where education wasn’t emphasized, Rich discovered his passion for learning later in life — after a chance encounter with Carl Sagan’s Cosmos while parked in his rig. That spark led him to community college, RPI, and eventually to a career leading polymer process development for engineering plastics used in automotive and aerospace applications.

Rich describes his time at SABIC’s Polymer Processing Development Center in Pittsfield as an “engineering playground,” where he worked on innovations like nanofibers and recyclable thermoplastics for the aviation industry. Now retired — or as he jokes, “bad at retirement” — he teaches at the Berkshire Innovation Center as part of the MIT Tech AMP program, helping technicians bridge the gap between theory and practice as technologists.

Beyond engineering, Rich has devoted decades to community service as a ski instructor and volunteer with STRIDE Adaptive Sports, helping people of all ages and abilities experience the joy of skiing. His story embodies curiosity, humility, and lifelong learning — showing how applied experience, education, and giving back can align into a life of purpose and meaning.

Links

Berkshire Innovation Center (MIT Tech AMP Program):
https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/

STRIDE Adaptive Sports:

https://www.stride.org/

Narrative Research Group:

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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

My Story Vault: From Coding to Communications with Peter Stasiowski

Thu, 2 Oct 2025 11:03:27 +0000

In this episode of My Story Vault, Dr. Dennis Rebelo sits down with Peter Stasiowski, Director of Communications at Interprint in Pittsfield. A Berkshire native, Peter traces his early years from North Adams and Williamstown, where family, community, and competition shaped his worldview. He recalls learning to code on an Apple II computer, building early graphics in BASIC, and discovering Macintosh computers at Williams College; a spark that led him toward strategic communication and advertising.

Peter describes how a simple bubble on a PSAT form steered him toward advertising, eventually bringing him to the University of West Florida, where faculty and peers inspired him to pursue marketing and design. After graduation, he gained firsthand experience in sales, newspaper publishing, and printing, before returning to the Berkshires and joining Interprint in 2006. Today, he helps shape the messaging of a decorative printing leader whose patterns and laminates are found in furniture, flooring, and cabinetry across North America.

Along the way, Peter reflects on cultural exchanges with colleagues in Germany and Japan, the importance of strategy and clarity in communication, and the puzzles at the heart of effective marketing. He also speaks candidly about rediscovering the Berkshires after years away, appreciating its seasons, landscapes, and deep sense of community. His story highlights the blend of analysis and creativity that has guided his career and his commitment to contributing to the place he calls home.

Links:

Interprint: interprint.com/en
Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program
Narrative Research Group: 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

My Story Vault: The Inventive Life of Roger Questel

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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.

My Story Vault: Cultivating Possibility at Williams College with Hope Ross Gibaldi

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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.

Links:

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

My Story Vault: Libraries, Design, and Discipline with Jenny Wright

Thu, 5 Jun 2025 10:25:35 +0000

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.

My Story Vault: Building with Community in Mind with Morgan Everett

Thu, 22 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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.

Links:

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

My Story Vault: Collective Wisdom Curator B. Stephen Boyd

Thu, 15 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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

My Story Vault: Giovanna Fessenden-Fairbank — Becoming a Digital IP Attorney

Thu, 8 May 2025 10:39:07 +0000

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.

LINKS

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

My Story Vault: The Road to 1 Million Miles with Tom Thalmann

Thu, 1 May 2025 10:48:19 +0000

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.

Links

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

My Story Vault: Curating Sober-Friendly Spaces with Alex Brown

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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.

Links:

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

My Story Vault: Inventing a Life - The Story of Justin McKennon

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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.

My Story Vault: The Daniel Bennett Story - Making Music, Making Meaning

Thu, 3 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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

My Story Vault: Grabbing the Wheel of Life with Dakar Rally Winner Sue Mead

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Sue Mead’s life exemplifies curiosity, bravery, and determination. Her adventurous spirit, ignited in childhood through outdoor explorations and reading National Geographic magazines, led her to a remarkable path in photography, journalism, and off-road racing.

In this captivating conversation on My Story Vault, with Dr. Dennis Rebelo, Sue shares transformative moments that shaped her personal and professional decisions en route to becoming a world renowned automotive journalist and Dakar Rally champion. She reflects on lessons learned from challenging terrains around the world, emphasizing the importance of trusting instincts, boldly facing uncertainty, and embracing opportunities for continuous growth and reinvention.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program: https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program
Sue Mead Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-mead-9577845/
Narrative Research Group: https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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

To watch on YouTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-W5peWlxxqE

Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios

My Story Vault: Building Winner’s Circle XR Academy with Juan Rodriguez

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Juan Rodriguez’s journey—from New York City’s boroughs to the heart of Providence—charts a powerful narrative of resilience, innovation, and service. In this episode, Juan shares how his upbringing, family influences, and life experiences led to the creation of Winner’s Circle XR Academy, a nonprofit dedicated to providing access to virtual, augmented, and mixed reality learning for students in underserved communities.

Juan reflects on childhood lessons learned through rough-and-tumble play and how navigating new environments honed his observational skills. He recounts transformative moments—like his time in Upward Bound—that first sparked his understanding of agency and leadership.

We explore how Juan's personal experiences with underutilized technology in classrooms and the loss of his brother to violence propelled him from a career in video production to becoming an educator and social innovator. Today, Juan runs a downtown Providence STEAM hub that helps middle school students and educators integrate technology through real-world projects, including the Mind Blast Hackathon, which challenges students to create VR-based solutions to social justice issues.

From overcoming imposter syndrome to reshaping what education looks like, Juan shares lessons for anyone working to empower the next generation.

Links:

Winner's Circle XR Academy:
https://www.winnerscirclexr.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

My Story Vault: Robert Sims, Driven to Serve, Invent & Father like a Pro

Thu, 6 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Robert’s journey blends his move to the Berkshires to help a credit union with his dream of creating a better children’s car seat. His “jump a creek” mentality—going all in, engaging fully, and using lessons to improve—shapes his approach. Get ready for a fast-paced, high-energy conversation!

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Robert Sims

linkedin.com/in/robert-sims-7580364

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

My Story Vault: Jared Lebos, Discovering the Engineer Within

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Jared's journey to becoming an inventor and renewable energy co-founder began with his early creative responses to South Africa’s “rolling blackouts.” His pursuit of new environments—through school and a move to Philadelphia—led to a friendship with Wharton classmate Andrew Crane at UPenn. Their conversations rekindled his passion for engineering, inspiring a move to the Berkshires, where he joined the dynamic ecosystem of the Berkshires Innovation Center, home to both him and Noble Carbon.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Noble Carbon

https://noblecarbon.io/

Narrative Research Group

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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

My Story Vault: Discerning the Ingredients of Good Work with Chef Peter Carvelli

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Chef Pete Carvelli’s journey to becoming a James Beard Foundation Semifinalist is anything but conventional. From experimenting with film development and storytelling as a journalist to practicing ethical lawyering, his path has always been guided by a strong sense of purpose. But when the call to the culinary world became undeniable, he left it all behind to go all in—founding Foglia, a plant-based fine dining restaurant that has quickly gained national recognition. In this episode, he reflects on the mindset, risk-taking, and creativity that shaped his career and set the table for a whole new approach to food.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Chef Pete Carvelli’s Restaurant, Foglia

https://fogliabristol.com/

Narrative Research Group

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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

My Story Vault: Tom Thalmann, Made for Complexity

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:45:00 +0000

Tom’s zig-zaggy trek to college led him to study engineering and applied math. Over 2 decades, Tom led teams in building out therapeutic centers for Fortune 100/500 biotech firms. After managing billions in building projects, he sought new challenges—earning an MBA in his 50s. Today, Tom consults non-biotech firms, focusing on efficiency and effectiveness.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Tom Thalmann

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomthalmann/

My Story Vault: Built for Collaboration with Ben Sosne

Thu, 6 Feb 2025 12:50:00 +0000

Ben's family's business revealed the connection between community and progress. From boycotting a new mall to studying at Columbia University, working at MLB Media, his journey focuses on collaboration. As a lawyer writing for the NY Appellate Court Ben honed his ability to synthesize ideas across 22 judges—skills he now leverages to bridge the public and private sectors.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

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

My Story Vault: Inside the Mind of 3rd Space Creator Chris Ryan

nate@natechristy.com (Nate Christy) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 11:56:12 +0000

Chris' view of the-world-of-work began with a spark of inspiration from a drawing desk at a family friend’s home. In Colorado, he learned the value of prioritizing purpose-driven design over aesthetics. From Colorado studio classes to designing rock walls, Chris’s path eventually led to Harvard's Graduate School of Design, followed by an executive leadership role and then position as a professor. Today, he is dedicated to creating "Venues for Life," leveraging his awareness of social phenomena, trends and deep understanding of systems thinking to help others craft modern third spaces. Focused on expanding access to transformative environments like rock gyms and multipurpose venues, Chris strives to foster access, meaning and connection in everyday life.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Chris Ryan Studio

https://www.chrisryanstudio.com/

Narrative Research Group

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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

My Story Vault: Meet Berkshire CEO Bill Newsome and Discover His Journey to Leading a Global Biotech Firm

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:37:02 +0000

This episode reflects on Bill's journey, starting with his move to the Berkshires, where his love for nature, outdoor recreation, and gardening took root. He shares his humble beginnings, shaped by his creative mother, and how internships and international travel helped him discover himself. Central to his growth was embracing the complexities of life sciences to fulfill his desire to improve the human condition. From studying at Berkshire Community College to working at Pfizer, pursuing graduate studies at Brown University, and fostering international relationships, Bill’s path to becoming a CEO is as much about personal growth as it is about leadership development.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Fibrocor Therapeutics

https://www.fibrocortherapeutics.com/

Narrative Research Group

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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

My Story Vault: Through the eyes of CEO Liseth Velez, Becoming an Organizational Architect with Dr. Dennis Rebelo

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 11:49:43 +0000

Liseth reflects on her journey from Colombia to Massachusetts and revisits her motivation to forge a purposeful path which set the stage for her service in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. Through this spirited exchange, Liseth shares her personal mental model for effective living and her efforts to elevate a young organization within the intricate world of construction management in the Boston area.

Her vision reimagines organizations not merely as firms but as dynamic environments for learning and growth. With a commitment to transferring her military-honed skills—along with the talents of fellow U.S. military veterans—Liseth exemplifies what it means to be a modern organizational architect, building not just a management firm but a thriving, adaptive ecosystem.

Liseth recently became an MBA student at the MIT Sloan School of Management. There, she aspires to amplify her impact by leveraging technology with an eye on sustainability to streamline business operations and transform construction processes to optimize team collaboration.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

LJV Development

https://ljvdevelopment.com/

Narrative Research Group

www.narrativeresearchgroup.org

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

My Story Vault: Exploring the “Voice Work” of Marshall Davis Jones, w/ Dr. Dennis Rebelo

Sun, 5 Jan 2025 16:50:32 +0000

Marshall Davis Jones takes us on a journey through key moments of his life, weaving together personal stories and insights. From his viral Touchscreen poetry slam performance that critiques technology, to the lessons he learned in the slam poetry world about the power of his voice, Marshall offers a compelling look at his creative and personal evolution.

He revisits vital childhood memories, like car rides with his grandfather, who introduced him to a "listen-to-the-music" game. This game honed Marshall’s ability to discern individual instruments and deepened his appreciation for sound, shaping his capacity to hear the world with precision.

Through animated storytelling, Marshall reflects on the profound influence of his church, which shaped his sense of what is good and what calls for change. With humor and candor, he shares entertaining recollections of life in the City, where he navigated the impulsiveness of youth and discovered the importance of making intentional choices.

Links:

Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program

https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program

Marshall Davis Jones

https://www.tonalinfluence.com/

Narrative Research Group

https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/

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