Ben O'Sullivan Pierce, co-owner of Fresh Start Contracting Corporation, has spent nearly two decades reshaping what homeowners expect from the renovation experience. Alongside his business partner, Nick Stamos, Ben has helped grow Fresh Start from a modest operation into one of Massachusetts’ premier custom building firms. In an industry often clouded by stereotypes of unreliability and poor communication, Ben offers a refreshing, client-first approach rooted in professionalism, transparency, and trust. He shares practical advice for navigating renovations—like understanding the value behind pricing, doing thorough research, and choosing contractors who communicate clearly—making the process smoother and even enjoyable.

Fresh Start’s journey hasn’t been without its setbacks, from stolen tools to unpaid invoices, but Ben’s focus has always remained steady: “We never focused on the problems. We focused on what was going well.” That optimism, grounded in his strong commitment to family and faith, continues to shape a company culture where every project—whether a luxury city remodel or a modest home update—is treated with care and respect. For anyone considering a renovation or curious about how great businesses are built, the story of Fresh Start—driven by the partnership between Ben and Nick—offers equal parts inspiration and insight. Visit freshstartcontracting.com or follow @FreshStartCorp on Instagram to see their work in action.

What happens when two passionate educators trade the classroom for real estate? Danielle and Chris Gianatassio, the duo behind CDG Realty Group, took that leap and never looked back. After years of part-time real estate experience, they launched their own full-service brokerage in 2022, leaving behind the security of teaching careers to raise their young family and pursue entrepreneurship. Their journey—marked by fear, courage, and ultimately fulfillment—is a testament to the power of following your passion, even when the path is uncertain.

CDG Realty Group stands out by offering more than just traditional buying and selling. With in-house general contracting, design, appraisal, and staging services, they provide a seamless, full-spectrum real estate experience. The Gianatassio also use their platform to educate clients, debunking myths about DIY real estate and highlighting the value of expert guidance. Whether running marathons or renovating homes, this husband-and-wife team brings grit, transparency, and a client-first approach to every project. Follow them online to see how they're transforming the real estate journey in North Reading and beyond.

Meet Nicholas Paolucci, founder of Mass Architect, a forward-thinking firm revolutionizing residential design in Massachusetts with speed, affordability, and sustainability at its core. From his education at Auburn University to launching his own firm in 2016, Nicholas has carved out a unique space in the industry as a solo practitioner focused on efficient, personalized service. Specializing in home additions, renovations, and new construction, Mass Architect brings a level of care and agility often missing from larger firms. Nicholas shares how launching his business during a deeply personal time—proposing to his wife and facing his father's illness—helped shape the resilience and purpose behind his entrepreneurial journey.

Nicholas also sets Mass Architect apart through a deep commitment to sustainability. As a LEED Accredited Professional working toward Passive House certification, he champions energy-efficient designs that align with evolving codes and environmental needs. With an emphasis on tight building envelopes, superior insulation, and renewable energy systems, his work goes beyond aesthetics to create homes that are both beautiful and responsible. Whether you're dreaming of a renovation or simply inspired by sustainable innovation, Nicholas offers a compelling look at how thoughtful design can build a better future—one home at a time.

Mark Anderson, owner of MWA Health and Fitness, redefines wellness beyond the gym, blending physical training with nutrition, sleep optimization, and mental health. His journey from Marine to holistic wellness advocate fuels his mission to debunk fitness myths, such as the misconception that calorie counting alone guarantees results or that weight training makes women "bulky." His studio embraces a personalized, whole-body approach, emphasizing that exercise alone isn't enough without proper recovery, nutrition, and mindfulness.

Beyond fitness, Mark’s insights into mental resilience and mindfulness offer practical strategies for improving overall well-being. His focus extends beyond traditional training methods, treating each client as a whole individual rather than just a body to be conditioned. Whether you're frustrated by fitness misinformation or seeking a more balanced approach to health, his expertise provides valuable clarity. Learn more at MWAfitness.com or follow Mark on Instagram at mark_anderson_mwa.

Chris Arson unveils the artistry and effort behind wedding photography, proving it's far more than just clicking a button. From shooting with an iPhone to building a full-time career on both coasts, his 12-year journey highlights the extensive planning and coordination that ensure seamless wedding days. Through candid insights, he dispels pricing misconceptions and emphasizes that successful photography involves intricate logistics, not just beautiful images.

What sets Chris apart is his highly personal approach. Unlike large firms that assign photographers, Chris works directly with couples, offering coffee meetings to align visions and accommodate unique requests. His resilience in relocating from the West Coast to New England underscores his commitment to connection, making him more than just a photographer—he’s a trusted partner in capturing unforgettable moments. Connect with him at chrisarsonphotography.com or on social media @chrisarsonphotography to experience the difference.

Sabrina Auclair founded Unpacked Living in 2019 to combat the overwhelming waste generated by American consumer culture. Her zero-waste store challenges misconceptions about sustainable living, proving that eco-friendly products can be affordable and accessible. Specializing in “naked products” and refillable options, Unpacked Living serves Massachusetts’ North Shore through a physical location and reaches customers nationwide via an online shop. Auclair’s approach eliminates wasteful packaging and makes conscious shopping effortless, emphasizing small changes that lead to a significant environmental impact.

Beyond selling sustainable products, Unpacked Living stands out by meticulously vetting each item, ensuring ethical sourcing and genuine eco-friendliness in an era of rampant greenwashing. Auclair’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles—closing a second location helped her refocus on purpose over profit. Her commitment to meaningful change extends beyond business, fostering a community dedicated to sustainability. Ready to embrace low-waste living? Connect with Unpacked Living on Instagram and Facebook @UnpackLiving or visit unpackliving.com to explore products that align with your values.

Carrie Shea founded The Preppy Mess with a simple yet powerful idea—your everyday purchases can drive meaningful change. During COVID-19, she realized that navigating a busy life as a mother of two didn’t mean sacrificing ethical consumerism. Her Instagram-based shop curates sustainable alternatives to toxic household products, making conscious shopping both accessible and realistic. Acknowledging the convenience of major retailers like Amazon, Carrie encourages small steps toward sustainability, celebrating progress over perfection.

Her mission is deeply personal. When her first daughter survived a life-threatening condition against all odds, Carrie's priorities shifted, shaping both her parenting and business philosophy. She believes kindness should be the foundation of change, inspiring others to take intentional steps toward ethical shopping. Whether swapping out a single product or embracing a more sustainable lifestyle, her approach is about making a difference without unrealistic expectations. Follow @thepreppymess on Instagram to explore brands that align with your values while keeping life practical.

Master arborist Josh Fritz has spent 28 years uncovering the hidden wonders of tree preservation, from the underground fungal networks that allow trees to communicate to the historical significance of Boston’s oldest trees. His journey into arboriculture was inspired by his great-uncle, a tree surgeon who encouraged him to pursue work that was both meaningful and enjoyable. Though a water skiing accident prevented Fritz from climbing, it led him to a leadership role at Hartney Greymont Davey Tree Expert Company, where he now spearheads preservation efforts as a dedicated "tree doctor."

Beyond science, Fritz understands the deep emotional bonds people share with trees, whether it's a backyard sapling planted by a child or a centuries-old landmark shaping history. He tackles climate-related shifts, such as sugar maples retreating northward, and diagnoses diseases threatening beloved trees. His team’s work ensures that trees—and the stories they hold—remain protected for generations. Interested in safeguarding your own living landmarks? Visit www.hartney.com to learn more.