In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with industry veteran Peter Ruffini to dig into two of the most talked-about shifts in real estate — the 2024 NAR settlement and the new 2025 home inspection changes in Massachusetts. Peter breaks down what these updates mean for agents, buyers, and sellers, and how professionals can adapt with clarity and confidence. He also highlights the often-overlooked distinction between training, coaching, and mentoring, and why understanding the difference can make or break your success in this changing market. A must-listen for anyone who wants to stay informed — and stay ahead — in today’s evolving real estate world.
Meet Theresa Ryan — LA real estate pro turned Western Mass powerhouse. After relocating east during the pandemic, Theresa brought her competitive edge, investor savvy, and infectious enthusiasm to one of the hottest markets in New England. In this episode, she shares how she rebuilt her business from the ground up, why Western Mass is a the perfect spot for smart investors, and how she balances real estate with running CrèmeBru.LA, her locally loved dessert venture with her husband. A true story of reinvention, resilience, and community connection.
In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Tom Crossman, a true Amherst original whose real estate journey started with a $90,000 first home—and a whole lot of sweat equity. From saving up dollar by dollar (and crate by crate) to becoming a seasoned property manager, landlord, and community leader, Tom proves that success in real estate isn’t handed to you—it’s built through hard work, persistence, and heart.
Tom shares the insider secrets, tips, and tricks he’s learned from over a decade in property management—covering everything from smart home maintenance moves to landlord lessons you won’t find in a textbook. Beyond the business, he’s the voice of Amherst High School football, a youth coach, and a proud board member for Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity, always giving back to the community that helped shape him.
Tune in for a conversation packed with real-world advice, small-town heart, and a reminder that whether you’re buying, maintaining, or mentoring—it’s all about putting in the work and paying it forward.
In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Brian Megliola, founder of The Megliola Group, to explore what it really means to go beyond the transaction in real estate. From buying and selling to flipping, leasing, and property management, Brian’s team has created a full-circle model that touches every corner of the housing industry. But it’s their heart-led nonprofit, Leo’s Home, that truly sets them apart—providing support, stability, and second chances for those in need of housing help.
Tune in for an inspiring look at how one Western Mass company proves that real estate done right isn’t just about properties—it’s about people, purpose, and creating lasting impact.
What do you really know about your home’s history? In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Attorney Roger Lipton — a seasoned real estate and litigation attorney with more than 40 years of experience in Western Massachusetts. Roger shares how a routine title search turned into a major discovery when he uncovered a hidden defect in the early days of a local condominium association in Northampton — and why thorough title work is one of the most important (and overlooked) steps in the homebuying process. From complex closings to courtroom wins, Roger brings stories, insights, and a refreshing dose of perspective on how legal expertise helps protect both people and property.
In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, host Lindsay Barron LaBonte sits down with Erica Swallow - top real estate agent, writer, and historic preservation advocate - to dive into the trends shaping both our local Western Massachusetts market and the national real estate landscape.We cover:✅ Housing inventory, prices, and affordability—are things getting better or worse?✅ Relocation patterns—who’s moving into (and out of) New England, and why✅ How storytelling and marketing can help buyers and sellers make smart moves ✅ The value of preserving historic homes and why they matter now more than everErica brings a rare blend of expertise in real estate, advertising, writing, and community leadership, offering a fresh perspective on how buyers, sellers, and homeowners can navigate today’s market with confidence
In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, host Lindsay Barron LaBonte sits down with longtime real estate attorney Mark NeJame of NeJame & Kling Law Offices in Northampton, MA. With over three decades of experience representing buyers, sellers, and refinancing homeowners, Mark shares insights from the legal side of the closing table — especially when it comes to working with first-time homebuyers. From evolving industry practices to common legal pitfalls, Mark breaks down how Massachusetts real estate law works, what buyers need to know, and why he’s passionate about making the process smoother and more accessible. We also talk about the value of community education, his role in local housing boards, and how real estate continues to challenge and inspire him even after 30+ years in practice. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a real estate professional, or just curious about how closings really work, this episode is packed with knowledge — and heart.🎧 Tune in for:The role of real estate attorneys in Massachusetts, Mark’s advice for first-time homebuyers, Tips for navigating a changing housing landscape, Common modern-day closing hurdles (like digital banks!), Why giving back is central to Mark’s mission.
Is house flipping just a trend, or can it be a force for good? Lindsay welcomes back her father, real estate veteran Todd Barron, for a conversation about the art—and heart—of restoring homes. Todd shares his perspective on revitalizing properties not just for profit, but to give them new life and help ease the housing shortage. It’s a candid take on what it really means to bring homes back into the community.
Don't miss this episode with Crystal Kane, a dynamic real estate agent who brings her international life experience, writing background, and positive energy to every client interaction. With so many success stories, and a lot of fun, Crystal talks with Lindsay about what it's like to help buyers and sellers in two different markets, how her personal journey shapes her approach, and why keeping things grounded and joyful is the key to lasting success in real estate. We all need a little more "honey over vinegar."
In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, host Lindsay LaBonte sits down with Realtor, rail trail advocate, author, and innkeeper Craig Della Penna — the first real estate professional in the U.S. to specialize in homes near rail trails. Craig shares how he’s helped hundreds of clients buy and sell homes along New England’s growing trail networks, how trails impact property value and lifestyle, and why he and his wife opened a bed & breakfast just eight feet from one of the first municipally-built rail trails in the country. We also dive into Craig’s work with Northeast Greenway Solutions and the mission to reconnect the Mass Central Rail Trail — a transformative project linking communities across Massachusetts. If you’ve ever wondered how real estate, sustainability, and community-building come together, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
What do equestrian competition and real estate have in common? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, Lindsay sits down with Western Mass real estate agent Meghan McCormick to explore how her background in the equestrian world and her role as a community leader help her connect with clients on a deeper level. Meghan also opens up about her personal journey selling her own home—sharing the emotions, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Welcome to Real People, Real Estate – the podcast where real stories meet real estate in Western Mass. In this debut episode, host Lindsay Barron LaBonte is in the hot seat, "reverse interviewed" by her father and mentor, Todd Barron. Get to know Lindsay’s journey, the heart behind the podcast, and what listeners can expect in future episodes. It’s an introduction to the people, purpose, and passion behind the mic.