Notable New England

A podcast about the people, places, and things that make New England so noteworthy.

Notable New England

Welcome to the Notable New England podcast. I'm your host, Gretchen B. I'm a lifelong New Englander and I'm excited to share with you the people, places, and things that make New England so noteworthy. Subscribe, tell a friend, grab a "regulah" and a Boston cream, and tune in. Episodes are released bi-weekly on Sundays. 

 

Support the Podcast

Want to get early, ad-free access to Notable New England episodes as well as other cool perks? Join our Patreon community as a paid member for as low as $2/month. Your contribution helps to fund production costs, create engaging episodes, and ensures the long-term sustainability of the podcast. I offer a variety of tiered membership levels with exclusive rewards tailored to your support. Join the Notable New England community today and be a part of what makes this podcast possible! Find out more at: patreon.com/notablenewengland 

Want to make a one-time contribution to the podcast? You can do so at: buymeacoffee.com/notablenewengland



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Contact Notable New England

gbossmusicco@gmail.com

Episodes

7 days ago

37 min

Learn about some incredible events & happenings coming up this fall all over New England. May it serve as a springboard for you to explore even more fun, fall opportunities our beautiful area of the country offers. 
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 
 

7 days ago

37 min

Aug 16, 2026

50 min

Storytelling has the power to build community, preserve history, and bring people together. In this episode of Notable New England, I speak with writer and storyteller ChaChanna Simpson about her Storytelling Sundays series at the Westport Public Library in Westport, CT, a bi-monthly open mic that welcomes storytellers from all backgrounds to share their voices. We also discuss the vibrant storytelling community in New England and why sharing our stories matters. 
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

Aug 16, 2026

50 min

Aug 2, 2026

29 min

In this episode of Notable New England, I sit down with Larry Claflin, Executive Director of the Salem Jazz & Soul Festival, to talk about this year’s lineup, the history behind the festival, and how it supports music education across the North Shore. Learn how this beloved Salem event brings together incredible artists while giving back to the community.
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

Aug 2, 2026

29 min

Jul 19, 2026

1 hr 13 min

As September 1st, Boston’s busiest moving day, approaches, I speak with Larry O’Toole, founder of Gentle Giant Moving Company which was started in Boston and has expanded to other regions outside of New England.
Larry shares the story behind building a people-first business, lessons from his memoir Heavy Lifting: Building a Business with a Giant Heart, and how Gentle Giant helped transform the moving industry.
*There is a very brief mention about suicide in the interview (29:56-30:45). If that is triggering to you, you may want to skip over that part of the interview and continue after. Listener discretion is advised.*
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

Jul 19, 2026

1 hr 13 min

Jul 5, 2026

23 min

This past week’s extreme heat across New England had many of us reaching for the AC, but it’s nothing compared to the devastating heat wave of 1911.
In this episode of Notable New England, we explore one of the region’s deadliest weather disasters: an 11-day stretch of record-breaking temperatures, limited forecasting, and no modern cooling systems. From people sleeping in the Boston Common to train tracks bending in the heat, and even many going insane, the stories are sobering.
With over 300 deaths in New England alone and over 2,000 deaths in the Northeast, the Great Heat Wave of 1911 is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come, and why we shouldn’t take modern comforts for granted.
If you’ve ever complained about the heat, this story will give you a whole new perspective.
**IF YOU FIND THE TOPICS OF WEATHER DISASTERS AND DEATH TRIGGERING, YOU MAY WANT TO SKIP THIS EPISODE AFTER THE WICKED LITE BITES SEGMENT. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.**
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 
 

Jul 5, 2026

23 min

Jun 21, 2026

31 min

Summertime in New England is made for getting outside! In this episode, I’m sharing some beautiful walks you can take across the region this summer. From coastal paths and wildlife sanctuaries to scenic strolls, these spots offer beautiful views, local history, and a chance to slow down and explore. If you’re looking for inspiration to get out there, this one’s for you.
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

Jun 21, 2026

31 min

Jun 7, 2026

1 hr 2 min

Author Julie Gerstenblatt joins the podcast to discuss her new historical fiction novel, The Stargazer of Nantucket (out June 9).
In this episode, we talk about what inspired the story, her connection to Nantucket, and the real history behind the book—including the Starbuck family and the legendary clipper ship Flying Cloud. The novel follows 18-year-old Winifred, who secretly stows away on her parents’ voyage, leading to a journey filled with adventure, danger, and long-buried family secrets.
We also dive into women in maritime history, Julie’s research process, and a few Nantucket spots you can visit to bring the story to life.
If you love historical fiction, New England history, and exciting, page-turning reads, this episode is for you.
🎧 Links to purchase The Stargazer of Nantucket and learn more about Julie are in the show notes & resources below. 
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

Jun 7, 2026

1 hr 2 min

May 24, 2026

32 min

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in New England, and in this episode, I’m sharing a curated list of community events to help you get out and explore the region. From food festivals and live music to unique local traditions, there’s something happening in every corner of New England.
I’m also highlighting a special America 250 event in each state so you can celebrate this historic milestone while discovering something new. Check the show notes for links to every event—and let this be your inspiration to get out, connect, and make the most of a New England summer.
🎉🎉Congratulations to lovely listeners Jymi and Ginger who submitted photos to the Notable New England Spring Photo Contest. I've decided to gift them BOTH with Notable New England prize packs and I posted their photos on our social media channels. Thank you, Jymi and Ginger for taking part! 
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

May 24, 2026

32 min

May 10, 2026

47 min

What happens when a local newspaper disappears—and a group of everyday people decides to step up? In this episode, we’re talking about building something from scratch, the power of community, and why local news still matters more than ever. It’s a reminder that sometimes it really does just take a few people to make a difference. The story of the Neshobe Current in Vermont. 
🎉🎉Congratulations to lovely listeners Jymi and Ginger who submitted photos to the Notable New England Spring Photo Contest. I've decided to gift them BOTH with Notable New England prize packs and I'll be posting their photos on our social media. Thank you, Jymi and Ginger for taking part! 
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: notablene.podbean.com📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

May 10, 2026

47 min

Apr 26, 2026

27 min

New England has a rich culinary history, and in this episode I’m sharing some great ways to experience it through food. From guided tours and tastings to hands-on classes and farm experiences across all six states, this is a delicious way to explore the region. Whether you’re visiting or live here, let this be your starting point. Click the Episode Sources, References, and Featured Links below for links to everything I've mentioned in the podcast.  
APRIL 30, 2026, is the deadline to submit a photo in our Notable New England Spring Photo Contest for your chance to win a Notable New England goodie package chock full of fun New England items. For info and to enter your photo click here. 
📌 Show Notes & Resources:
🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links🔹 Music licensing & credits
💙 Support Notable New England:
Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here
Gift someone a Notable New England Patreon membership by clicking here. 
To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewenglandYou'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation. 
📢 Follow Notable New England:
🔹 Patreon🔹 BuyMeaCoffee🔹 Substack🔹 Facebook🔹 Instagram🔹 Threads🔹 Bluesky🔹 YouTube🔹 Reddit
🎙️ Podcast Website: https://notablene.podbean.com/ 📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com 

Apr 26, 2026

27 min

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