Investing in Communities: Betsy Biemann on the Mission of CEI

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, recorded in December 2025, guest host Drew Sigfridson sits down with Betsy Biemann, CEO of Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), to talk about her path from a Rotary Fellowship in Kenya to leadership roles at the Rockefeller Foundation—and ultimately to leading one of the country’s top Community Development Financial Institutions.

Drew and Betsy dive into CEI’s mission to support low-income communities through financing, business advising, and targeted investments in sectors like farming and food manufacturing, aquaculture, childcare and renewable energy. They also discuss CEI’s impact nationwide, including advancing affordable and workforce housing and rural manufacturing through key tax credit programs.

The conversation touches on how CEI has helped small business owners navigate the evolving federal policy and economic landscape and why their work supporting entrepreneurs and local economies is more important than ever.

In this episode of The Boulos Beat, guest host Samantha Marinko sits down with Jason Adour, President and Founder of Maine Strong Balance Centers. Jason shares his journey from practicing physical therapy to becoming a healthcare entrepreneur, including the recent opening of his fourth clinic in Westbrook.

The conversation explores the Maine Strong Balance Centers' specialized focus on balance, rehabilitation and fall risk reduction for older adults, care for individuals living with neurologic conditions, and vestibular and dizziness rehabilitation.

Samantha and Jason also dive into the real estate strategy behind expanding a healthcare practice — from selecting accessible locations to building strong landlord relationships. Looking ahead, Jason outlines his thoughtful approach to growth: expanding into new communities while maintaining the personalized care, strong culture, and staff retention that define Maine Strong.

Whether you’re interested in healthcare entrepreneurship, commercial real estate, or mission-driven business growth, this episode delivers valuable insight and inspiration.

Now operating 28 locations across the United States, with international locations in Singapore and Japan, Luke’s Lobster has become a globally recognized brand rooted in sustainability and quality. Luke discusses the importance of vertical integration, community relationships, and the strategic growth of the company’s consumer packaged goods business. The conversation also explores how Luke’s restaurant footprint and real estate strategy play a critical role in brand awareness and long-term growth.

Perfect for listeners interested in entrepreneurship, food and beverage, brand expansion, sustainability, and real estate strategy.

Join host Greg Boulos on The Boulos Beat as he sits down with Dava Davin, founder of Portside Real Estate Group, to discuss Dava’s career journey from pharmaceuticals to real estate, her accomplishments in endurance sports, and the continued growth of her company.

Now the second-largest real estate firm by sales volume in Maine and the top woman-owned agency in Northern New England, Portside Real Estate Group supports a network of more than 200 agents. Davin underscores the importance of strong communication, mentorship, and community engagement, including the firm’s more than $1 million in charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations.

The conversation also explores Portside’s recent acquisition of The Swan Agency and its expanding market presence, as well as Davin’s approach to sustaining high-quality service while balancing local roots with national opportunities.

Caitlin and John explore his experience developing more than 20 hotels and commercial properties, including major projects such as the Row Hotel at Assembly Row and Liberty Lane in Hampton, New Hampshire.

John highlights the importance of vertical integration, collaboration, and community engagement, particularly in housing development. He also addresses key challenges facing the construction industry, including labor shortages and the ongoing shift toward modular construction. Throughout the conversation, his strong commitment to family, colleagues, and community is clear.

Melissa reflects on her work with General Colin Powell, her advanced training at the Arthur Findlay College in England, and her contributions to public policy. Greg and Melissa explore the role of intuition in business decision-making, touching on techniques such as numerology and energy awareness.

Melissa also highlights her philanthropic work, donating 10% of proceeds from her Luminous Eight program to nonprofit organizations. The conversation concludes with thoughtful insights on the evolution of human consciousness and the growing influence of energy in both personal and professional transformation.

Torey shares her journey from Columbus, Ohio, to settling in Maine in 2011, as well as the educational and professional experiences that ultimately led to the founding of HighByte in 2018. The conversation highlights the company’s rapid growth, its role in advancing industrial data infrastructure, and its commitment to community engagement through initiatives such as Girls Who Code and FIRST Robotics. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

The discussion covers Meredith’s tenure as a state representative, her journey as a cancer survivor, and her forthcoming book on breast cancer. She also highlights her pivotal role in founding the annual Maine Tri for a Cure triathlon, which, this year, successfully raised $2.18 million for the Maine Cancer Foundation.

Additionally, Greg and Meredith reflect on the evolution of the advertising industry, her active participation on various nonprofit boards, and her political contributions, including co-sponsoring the landmark 2009 same-sex marriage bill. Meredith underscores the importance of women supporting one another and the profound impact of her efforts in cancer prevention and support.

The two discuss Bob’s family's history in Maine, his involvement in the Black Point Inn acquisition, and his role in the Portland Museum of Art's Winslow Homer Studio purchase. Bob also shares insights on the growth of the Pinkerton Foundation, the importance of mentorship, and his views on Portland's development and the future of Spinnaker Trust.

Founded in Portland in 2014, the Locker Project relies on foundation grants and contributions from local businesses and community members to provide food-insecure children and families with reliable access to nourishing food. Unlike school meal programs, the Locker Project provides fresh produce and meal items for the whole family. Unlike traditional food pantries, the Locker Project partners with schools and other local agencies to make food available at dozens of locations. In 2024, program partners will facilitate distribution of more than 600,000 pounds of nutritious food in Greater Portland and beyond. Community members interested in supporting this work can find more information or make a donation at www.mainelockerproject.org.

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Ben and Caitlin sit down to discuss Ben’s life-long career journey, including how his internship with Brady Sullivan Properties, one of the largest commercial and residential real estate companies in New Hampshire, evolved into his estate entrepreneurship today. They also dive into the properties Kelley Family Properties and The Boulos Company have leased together, the projects Ben is most proud of, and why he and his team decided to do business in New Hampshire.

Cole shares how personal experiences shaped the establishment of Med Matrix and discusses the challenges of running a business at a young age, including the dynamics of working with family members. Greg and Cole discuss such topics as exosomes, stem cell treatments, and the array of other services offered by Med Matrix. Additionally, they explore the role of functional medicine in healthcare and outline the model of Med Matrix in the years to come.

Greg sits down with Dinah to discuss her 25+ years of experience as a producer in New York and Los Angeles, including her credits as associate producer of Saturday Night Live, co-producer of Paramount Pictures’ films including Wayne's World, Tommy Boy, Coneheads, and others. They also talk about what attracted her family to the Portland area, her work at Creative Portland, and how the nonprofit works with arts organizations throughout Maine to spread art awareness in the city. Dinah also goes into what Creative Portland projects are in the works and the vision moving forward.

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Jay and Caitlin sit down to discuss how Jay founded the two companies and the inner workings of each one, specifically the various development deals across New Hampshire. They also talk about Torrington Properties' value-added component and how their out-of-the-box thinking and creativity set them apart from other developers in the state. Jay also provides insight into what led him to invest in New Hampshire, his first deal, and what is next for Torrington Properties and Stonington Capital.

Art and Greg sit down to discuss Lucas Tree Experts, including its founding and current work. They also discuss how the Maine-based company switched from a residential focus to a commercial one in the '80s, how the Batson family works together today, and how the pandemic affected the company's operations. Art also pulls out his crystal ball to provide insight into Lucas Tree Expert's future and how his son, president Art Batson, III, plans to grow and expand the family business.

Angela and Samantha sit down to discuss Angela’s journey from Maine to Chicago and back again, the earliest days of Maine Needs operating out of a garage, and what the future has in store for the non-profit. They also talk about how Angela was encouraged by another local organization to set aside her inexperience in the nonprofit world and use her skillset to her advantage. Angela also provides insight into the organization's mission and shares the thoughtful backstory of their logo. 

Greg and Liz discuss Liz’s work experience and journey to her executive position at United Way, starting with her early life in Waterville. They also talk about nonprofit vs for-profit work, how United Way receives resources, and how organizations receive funding from the nonprofit. Liz also reflects on charitable giving changes over time and the impacts of the recent pandemic on the United Way. 

Along with GoGo Refills' mission, Cameron and Laura talk about her life, including where she grew up, her early career, and why she moved to Portland. The two speak about Laura’s “plastic awakening” and what has driven Laura to start GoGo Refill. She also gives advice to anyone wanting to pursue a similar career in environmental sustainability and looks into GoGo Refills' future.

Greg and Imad discuss Imad’s journey to Camden, Maine from Jerusalem with only $500 in his pocket. The two also speak about why he left Jerusalem, how he ended up in Maine, and the American Dream. They also discuss Imad’s unique management style and how he conducts business.

Greg and Kim sit down to discuss Kim’s journey of taking over the family business a decade ago and his transition to commercial real estate from the staffing industry. They also discuss why GL Rogers and Company is a low-key business, how the pandemic affected commercial real estate, and the philosophies in which Kim runs the business. They also go through many of the investments GL Rogers and Company has made over the years.

Greg and Jon sit down to discuss Greg’s eight-year journey as the president of Jewett, his day-to-day operations, and the ideal clients to work with in commercial construction. They also discuss how Greg focuses on Jewett’s ability to provide its clients with a single-source solution to construction in a wide range of markets, how the design-build construction process works, and how the projects are affected by local commercial real estate markets.

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Joan and Cameron discuss Joan’s journey to Portland, ME from Chicago and dive into her childhood and early life. They discuss her role at Groups Recover Together, what the company does for its members, and what the future looks like. They also touch on misconceptions about her work, evolving operations at the height of the pandemic, and what motivates Joan outside of work.

Marie and Jessica speak about how Marie got her starting position at L.L. Bean and her early-life journey. They also discuss L.L. Bean’s guiding principles, how it draws people into Maine, and the family-led company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. They also get into Marie’s honor of the Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s 2022 Women in Supply Chain award, an award that honors female supply chain leaders and executives whose mentorship and accomplishments lay the foundation for everyone at all levels of a company’s supply chain network.

The two sit down to discuss the marijuana industry and how Cliff took cannabis development to another level in the state of Michigan. As CEO, Cliff spent eight years developing some of the most technologically advanced cannabis campuses in the country, setting the tone for what large-scale cannabis will look like in the future. They also speak about Cliff’s road to success, including his not-so-smooth sailing through school, how he got into the marijuana business and his long-term plans. 

Rebecca and Claire sit down to discuss how she became the CEO and president of Avesta Housing and the transition from senior vice president at Citigroup to her new role. They also talk about the housing shortage, what needs to be done to change it, and how Avesta Housing is working towards that goal. They also get into Rebecca’s biggest inspirations and mentors, her experience being a woman of color in the housing and real estate industry, and the short-term focus and long-term goals for Avesta Housing. 

Listen to the latest episode of The Boulos Beat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or Vimeo!

Mike and Greg sit down to discuss how Mike came to be the second president and CEO of MEMIC and how his efforts help strategically position the company as an industry leader in workplace safety. The two also speak on Mike’s journey to working with MEMIC, how the company and claims process works, and if there are any plans to expand into other areas. They also get into the benefits of buying into workplace safety, if it’s possible to build a company culture through a remote working style, and what the state of Maine could do better in its business sector. 

Lisa and Greg sit down to talk about how Lisa is responsible for more than 400 employees, how she makes sure she runs a profitable business and the best and worst parts of her job. They also discuss Lisa’s Like a Boss series where she interviews other CEOs from different companies, and how she finds time to volunteer through it all. The two also speak about print journalism, its future, and how the pandemic affected the publication of Masthead Maine.

Dan and Greg sit down to discuss how Dan was in a New Jersey street gang, how he got started in the real estate business, and what it takes to become a real estate broker. The duo discuss how the most successful brokers are often the most insecure, and advice from Dan for young people just starting out in the industry. They also dive deep into recent recessions, how they’ve impacted the real estate market and why he stayed at The Boulos Company despite having the opportunity to start his own business.

Ford's preservation of the Halfway Rock Lighthouse was featured on the DIY Network and can be viewed here: https://www.diynetwork.com/shows/building-off-the-grid-maine-lighthouse/episodes/specials/building-off-the-grid-maine-lighthouse

Produced by Trail Marker Productions http://www.trailmarkerproductions.com/

Recorded/engineered by The Portland Pod https://portlandpod.com/

Produced by Trailer Marker Productions: http://www.trailmarkerproductions.com/

Engineered by The Portland Pod: https://portlandpod.com/

Produced by Trailer Marker Productions: http://www.trailmarkerproductions.com/

Engineered by The Portland Pod: https://portlandpod.com/

Engineered by The Portland Pod: https://portlandpod.com/