​Author: Vanessa Puopolo, BSU student

​In the town of Hanover, Massachusetts, there is only one bakery - Giuseppe’s Cakes Etc., a small family owned bakery on the South Shore. Joseph and Christine Perella are the owners of Giuseppe’s Cakes Etc. for seventeen years now. Joseph, a retired maintenance manager for a Boston housing project, bought the business in the spur of the moment. Joseph’s stepdaughter had a job at the local bakery with the previous owners of the shop. When the previous owners decided to sell, Joseph and Christine decided to take a chance by taking over the business and gave it its own family style.
 
Giuseppe’s Cakes specializes in custom made cakes, cupcakes and pastries for all special occasions. They also have a tremendous assortment of Italian pastries which include cannolis and tiramisu. They use a homemade recipe for their amazing buttercream frosting.  Any idea you have for a cake I am positive that Joseph and Christine can successfully produce it for you. They have many photos of their most decorative cakes on their website.
​
​As any business owner would say, great customer service is always a key factor in any successful business.  Providing great customer service not only attracts customers but maintains their loyalty. It’s Joseph’s customers that motivate him to come to work every day. Joseph describes his business as a “Ma and Pop business”. In other words, the business is typically running by family members who treat their customers as part of their family. When you come into Giuseppe’s Cakes you will find Joseph behind the counter with his friendly smile and contagious giggle. You will also find his charming wife Christine, being the one to take your order and answer any questions that you might have. Sometimes you can even find their grandchildren helping out by putting boxes together.

​When I had the pleasure interviewing Joseph, I asked What was the toughest thing he went through when opening? Joseph said that getting recognized was probably the hardest thing to accomplish when first opening up business. Joseph relied on his reputation and his customers to intrigue new business opportunities. In the long run this worked out in Joseph and Christine’s favor because they have maintained a profitable business in a difficult industry.
 
Many businesses have suffered hardship during the Covid-19 pandemic, but for Giuseppe’s Cakes, they have been working right through with little to no setbacks from their usual routine. They have implemented changes to their social distancing and the amount of people that are allowed in their business. The staff has been working diligently to make sure they are all safe and protected from the virus.
 
If you are ever in the Hanover area, make sure to stop by Giuseppe’s Cakes and try out their mouthwatering cupcakes with their famous homemade frosting. I promise you that you will not be disappointed and why you are there.

Visit Giuseppe’s Cakes, Etc. at 409 Columbia Rd #900 in Hanover, MA.
 
Contact them via:
 
Phone number: 781-826-0155
Email: giuseppescakesetc@comcast.net
Website: www.giuseppescakes.com
Facebook: Giuseppe’s Cakes, Etc.

​Author: Margieh Wairimu, BSU student

​Cleaning has been and will be a day-to-day activity in everyone’s life, even if it’s touch-ups, organizing, cleaning dishes, vacuuming, or deep cleaning. And with COVID-19, we have been taking extra care in cleaning our homes, spaces, and basically everything we touch. We have to sanitize before we interact with others to keep ourselves safe from dirt and germs.  Different people have different methods of cleaning and some of them have gone as far as owning successful cleaning businesses. This week I had the pleasure of speaking with a small business owner who has turned her career with cleaning into her way of life.
 
The Maid Solutions is an affordable residential and commercial cleaning company located in East Bridgewater. Their services are offered in the surrounding towns, such as: Plymouth, Carver, Taunton, Marshfield, Duxbury, Bridgewater, Hanson, and Scituate to mention a few. Marcia Hottes, owner and an East Bridgewater resident, takes pride in knowing she is able to do what she loves, make a living out of it, and be able to manage her own business. She has been in business since 2009, and during this time she has been able to learn and grow in the industry. Marcia’s motivation comes from positive feedback from her customers. Through this positive feedback, she has come to be someone people trust.
 
Her customers’ recommendations have helped her business grow since she started. Through word of mouth and her Facebook page, she has been able to reach out to other customers and market her business. 

In the future Marcia, who is the only employee, would want to expand her business and even have a partner. Her biggest challenge is offering the best prices to her customers; competing with other small business competitors and the corporate companies. For this year, just like every other business the COVID-19 pandemic, has had the same impact in many small businesses - closing for a few weeks, which would drive sales down and threaten the source of her livelihood. She wasn’t working for a few months, but by taking the necessary precautions and safety measures, she is back doing what she loves, while keeping herself and her clients safe.  Her goal is always to do her best and leave your home clean, organized, and smelling fresh!

Technology has been a part and has played an important role in her business in that she has actively used social media platforms, like Facebook, to advertise her business in groups and on pages. This has been one way she has been able to drive business her way. What sets her apart from her competitors is that she has competitive pricing, and works within the client's budget; she believes she can beat any written estimate.

She is grateful to her current customers and looking forward to working with others in the near future. For the 11 years she has been in business, she finds decluttering before cleaning, gathering all her cleaning supplies and tools in a caddy makes it much easier to get the job done - maybe you will use this tip next time you are cleaning.
​

The Maid Solution is based in East Bridgewater, MA.

Contact them via:
Phone: 774-222-8770
Email: Marciahottes2016@gmail.com
Facebook:  @themaissolution

​Author: Quinn DeMelo, BSU student

​Barnacle Bills Seafood located in East Wareham Massachusetts is a family owned restaurant ran by a hard-working duo Husband and Wife. Jennifer and Andrew Mattos, the owners of the restaurant have been in the food industry for many years. They decided to open up their own business on February 13, 2013 and since then been growing every year.  The strategy of opening up Barnacle Bills was to target traffic coming from Cape Cod, and tourist visiting beaches around the area. Seafood is what they specialize in, so it was a perfect opportunity for them to start their own business together in this area. Andy is a hardworking man, who has known the seafood industry is whole life. His family owned a seafood restaurant for over 40 years, he grew up working there and learned everything from his family. His dream was to open up his own one day and continue the family tradition.                                           
 
Starting the business wasn’t easy at all. It took numerous months and dedication to get the business off its feet. The hardworking duo they were able to work through the tough times and together made the restaurant to what it is now. In an interview, I asked Jennifer what was the toughest thing about first opening up the business. She told me commitment was the toughest and still is. Every day that the restaurant is open one of them is there making sure the business is running smoothly. Jennifer and Andrew stay inspired by making their customers happy. Serving customers a good meal and providing a good experience is rewarding for them. 

My visit started with the option of dining in the dining room, where a bar is available to sit at to eat of just enjoy a cocktail or a beer from local brewers, or comfortable tables with a large screen TV to enjoy a sports game while you dine. I also had the option to sit outside on the patio that has a walk-up window to order food to go as well. I choose to sit outside to enjoy the good weather and the view. The owner Andy made me samples of their clam chowder, and fried captain’s platter which was huge! It included fish, scallops, shrimp, whole belly and French fries with amazing Cole slaw on the side. I had a sample of the golden chicken tenders and some fresh shrimp cocktail. The food was beyond delicious.  The clam chowder had one of the best I have tried yet. Barnacle Bills menu offers many different choices from fried or broiled seafood to nice juicy burgers and fries. The prices will not break the bank for the whole family to enjoy a meal out, this small family owned friendly restaurant will not disappoint. The owners welcomed me with open arms during their busy day to sit down and do this interview and help me understand all the hard work and dedication that goes into starting and keeping a successful business running. Thank you for your hospitality, amazing food, and friendly welcoming. I’ll be back. 

Visit Barnacle Bill’s Seafood at: 3126 Cranberry Highway in East Wareham, MA.
​
Contact them via:
Phone: 508-743-5095
Facebook: @Barnaclebillsseafood

​Author: Shelby Crosby, BSU student

​I had the pleasure of interviewing Tim Gleason, who is a personal trainer for his own business TRG Performance Training. Tim’s business is located in the U at Starland in Hanover, MA, where he helps his clients reach their goals towards fitness and health. At TRG Performance Training, Tim offers a 1300+ foot studio, as well as use of the turf and the cage during training sessions. TRG offers other services, such as group training with a max of 8 people, private one on one training sessions, and recovery and rehab programs. In our interview, I learned a lot about Tim’s business as well as his personal life.
 
So, let’s start with are you from this local area?
Yes, I grew up in the South Shore area and went to Bridgewater State University.
 
Tell me about your business. Why did you choose this line of business?
Growing up I always loved sports and fitness and pursued that interest through college. I fell in love with Dr. Robinson, who teaches physical education and health science at BSU. My passion for health science grew, as well as my interest in learning about the human body, and I ended up getting my masters in this field. As far as how my business started, I have always wanted my own. I started as a trainer at the Kingsbury Club training college athletes and wanted to go out on my own.
 
When did you start your business?
I started my business 10 years ago in 2010.

​What was it that made you want to start this business?
I have always loved helping people reach their fitness goals or become a better athlete. I used to work at a gym as a trainer and loved it so much that I decided to pursue my passion for it and create my own business.
 
What was the toughest thing you went through when opening? What inspired you to keep going as you were getting the business off the ground?
One of my biggest obstacles was when I opened this one location in Marshfield. I put a lot of money and work into rebuilding the floor and area to make it great quality, and out of nowhere they told me that they sold the building and I needed to leave. I ended up having to find a new location, and it actually turned out to be better. I relocated to the U at Starland, which brought in more clients and other athletes. I have an amazing wife and family that have always inspired me to keep going when I started and still to this day.
 
If you had to start over from day 1 what would you have done differently? Or what was your most difficult challenge?
If I could change anything, I would have hired more consistent trainers to train with. Many clients would like to work with me, as it is my own business, and it can be difficult to attend to all clients by myself.
 
What is the toughest part about having a business in 2020?
At first, the toughest part was the unknown because gyms were closed due to COVID-19, and even when they opened it wasn’t until the 3rd phase. This actually attracted even more business because people were home and gyms weren’t open, leading to more clients trying to do virtual training. I ended up doing virtual training from home and I felt like I didn’t have enough time in the day. I had to change my business model from clients coming to me at my gym to going to their homes and doing it that way.
 
If a customer was to choose between your business and 3 others just like it why would you suggest they at least give you a try first?  What makes you stand out?
The truth- I take the approach to my clients with the knowledge that everyone is different. No one is treated the same. I take what my clients need to work on or improve and specialize it to that specific person. I use their body type and other factors to figure out what isn’t working and make it more personal. I listen attentively to how my clients are feeling and use it to my advantage so that I am able to help them.
 
What is the number 1 way you currently bring in new customers?
I attract new clients through word of mouth and referrals from current clients. I am also next door to a physical therapist, so I refer clients to him and he does the same for me. Working in the U at Starland brings in business as well.
 
Has internet technology (website, online ads, social media, etc) played a big part in your growth and making your company more successful?
To be honest, social media has not had a huge impact on growing my business. Word of mouth is key for my business and the way I operate it. I could do more online but I am not tech savvy and my business is always growing. I now sell apparel and it sells quick.
 
Do you feel that internet technology could play a bigger role in your business if you had the right tools?
I think internet technology could play a bigger role in any business. Social media platforms definitely play a huge part in helping businesses bring in new clients; however, where my business is small, word of mouth is how I would like to continue growing the business. I think if I were to expand I would definitely look into utilizing internet technology to help bring business in.
 
If you had to look 6 months to a year into the future where would you like to see your business be?
I have been looking to expand and get other trainers as well as group training. I would also like to incorporate a rehab cardio section and offer some classes, such as Zumba, Pilates, yoga, etc.
 
If you could, would you increase or decrease your workload, step away and be more a manager, passive owner? Why?
I would say that overall, yes, I do feel overworked. I am currently happier than I have ever been because I am to spend more time with my family. I train a lot of students after school and usually do late clinics, but since sports in school are not an option right now, I get to go home and spend time with my kids. It is nice to be able to put them to bed instead of coming home late. I don’t get many breaks and haven’t since I started my business 10 years ago, but now I am able to make my own schedule. This has also helped a few other trainers that can rent my space while I’m not there.
 
 Is there anything else that you would like to add or share with potential new clients?
I have a business alliance with Peak Physical Therapy, where new clients at TRG will receive a 30 minute injury prevention evaluation to screen for potential issues that may hinder their training. Additionally, if a TRG athlete encounters a potential injury during their training Peak Physical Therapy will perform free injury screenings to determine the issue and initiate therapy if needed. I think that this is a helpful tool that all new clients should take advantage of.

Visit TRG Performance Training at:
645 Washington Street, Unit C in Hanover, MA.
 
Contact them via:
Phone: 781-974-5242
Email: timothy.gleason@gmail.com
Website: www.trgperformancetraining.com
Facebook: @TRGPerformanceTraining

​Author: Patrick Callanan, BSU student

​I interviewed the manager Tim Flaherty at Pilgrim Skating Arena (PSA). The owner of the company is Tim’s brother, and Tim was kind enough to answer the questions in his brother’s absence. It is also worth mentioning that Tim and his brother did not start this business. It was founded in 1974. The current management has taken it over in recent years and the rink is running more smoothly and professional than ever before.
 
 I began by asking why he chose this line of business. He instantly points out that he did not choose this line of work; he is helping his brother by providing his management expertise. According to Tim, “This organization was set up as a nonprofit to give the youth in the area a place to play hockey”.
 
As I mentioned in the preface, the company was founded in 1974, but recently taken under new management. He then goes on to discuss the problems the company has endured while operating during 2020. He attributes the difficulties to the restrictive guidelines, which limits the amount of people in the building at a time, and the added cleaning efforts. 

I then asked why a customer would choose this skating rink over any of the competitors. Tim said that there are two main reasons why a customer would choose Pilgrim Skating Arena. The first is the location, because it is located directly off the highway and next to the Derby Street Shops in Hingham. The second is the product, which the arena provides ice rentals, skate sharpening, and select items in the pro shop. Many customers will come to Pilgrim Skating Arena to check for the products they are looking for before driving to a shop that is further away. The number one way the skating arena brings in new customers is word of mouth. I then asked Tim about the influence that technology has on the business, and he admitted that currently, the arena does not capitalize on the potential of social media. Going forward he discussed the potential of doing ice rental booking online, rather than over the phone. I finished the interview by asking Tim where he saw the business in 6 months and he gave me an answer that rang true to most people reading this article, “Operating without any COVID-19 restrictions”. 

Visit Pilgrim Skating Arena at 75 Recreation Park Drive in Hingham, MA.

Contact them via:
Phone: 781-749-6660
Email: info@skatepilgrim.com
Website: www.skatepilgrim.com
Instagram: @pilgrimskatingarena
Facebook: @pilgrimarenainc

​Author:  Jason Amirault, BSU student

If you are looking for landscaping services in the South Shore area, K&T Landscaping is the one you are looking for. This landscaping company focuses on both timely and very efficient work to be done that goes above and beyond to satisfy their clients. This business is based out of Norton, MA and does business all throughout the South Shore. They have been in business since 2018 and have been dedicated to their customers’ wants and needs every single day.
I had the pleasure of interviewing the owner of K&T landscaping, Kyle Leroux. Kyle has always been in the landscaping business. With previous experience and the prior knowledge, he decided to start his business. I was able to get more in depth about his business and how he stands out from other businesses.
 
Why did you choose this line of business?
Before I decided to get my business, I had worked for a landscaping company for five years. I was basically the foreman, which is the leader of operations. After five years, the company closed their doors and at that point I realized I am going to make my own business.
​
What was it that made you want to start this business?
I knew how to lead especially from being a foreman from the last company and I was ready to be in charge. Also, I wanted to make sure my family was better off financially.

What was the toughest thing you went through when opening?
The toughest this about opening was the old equipment we had. We bought used equipment at the time and it would break down on us. The breakdowns caused us to push back work which did not help customer service expectations. Also, it was very hard to find hard workers who were dedicated to the job.
​
What inspired you to keep going as you were getting the business off the ground?
My friends and family pushed me to keep going because they knew I put a lot of hard work into my business.

If you had to start over from day 1, what would you have done differently?
I would have made sure we had better equipment to start off with.
 
What is the toughest part about having a business in 2020?
Definitely the pandemic. We had to fill out paperwork with the state in order to work which took 3-4 weeks, so we were not in business those 3-4 weeks. When we were closed, we had to take certain precautions which was nerve wrecking. When we were finally able to work people did not want us to go on their property because of the pandemic, but we got our work done following the safety protocols. Also, warehouses in 2020 have had limited supplies and materials and we had to come up with solutions about the material shortages quickly and solutions that were outside of the box.

If a customer were to choose between your business and 3 others just like it why would you suggest they at least give you a try first? What makes you stand out?
We will complete the work through the customer’s specific needs, and we make sure the work is done the right way. We do not cut corners on the job.

What is the number 1 way you bring in new customers?
By word of mouth and through groups on Facebook. Someone would post they need landscaping done and people would recommend my services.
​
Do you feel that internet technology could play a bigger role in your business of you had the right tools?
Yes, it would. I do not use Google and I do not have a website right now. I am taking baby steps to start. It is only a 3 people business right now.
 
If you had to look 6 months to a year into the future where would you like to see your business be?
I would like to see my business go from 25 to 50 accounts, some new trucks, and newer equipment. Also, I would like more workers and a nice landscaping yard.

K&T Landscaping, is located at 53 Dean Street in Norton, MA.
 
Contact them via:
Email: ktlandscaping369@gmail.com
Phone: 774-265-2527
Facebook: @ktlandacaping

​Author: Evan Murphy, BSU student

​Growing up in Rockland, walking home from school through the center of town always had me passing the same buildings for years. Every once in a while, some of the places would go out of business or change hands, but many have been there for as long as I can remember. One of those businesses is Rockland Athletic Supplies (RAS). It has always been a fitting name, as it is deeply connected to the community. Doing various sports throughout my time in middle school and high school, both of which were right down the street from the RAS store, meant that I was constantly coming into contact with their products. After having such great experiences with them in the past, I was very happy to be able to get a chance to talk with the owner, Johnny Medlin.
 
Rockland Athletics was established more than 30 years ago, and focuses on printing, designing, and producing personal apparel. It is a family owned and operated business, and it was originally founded by Medlin’s father.  Medlin was born and raised in the South Shore, having been born in Marshfield and is currently living in Pembroke with his family. Because of this background, Medlin has made it a point to focus on that family aspect. Medlin said that he prefers to be very involved with the company, because he wants it to be like a family. Making sure both employees and customers alike are happy and treated well is one of the major day to day goals that is emphasized.
 
The community has always been a big part of Rockland Athletic’s way of operating. They take pride in doing everything they can to maintain a positive relationship with the town of Rockland and the South Shore as whole, and are continuing to do everything possible to continue to grow the positive relationship. They treat every order and customer with the same amount of respect and care as possible, whether it's a simple personal order or a private order from another business. Attending and sponsoring events is something Medlin makes a point of doing. They strive to give their customers amazing service, making them so satisfied that they tell others about the great experience they had. Because of this, word of mouth is their best and preferred form of advertising. They take pride in their ability to meet the needs of their customers in a timely manner.

​One of the biggest challenges Rockland Athletics has faced in recent times is that of COVID-19. Obviously, everyone is affected fairly heavily by it, but because RAS is so heavily focused on personal and welcoming in store interactions, they have felt it hard. They also had to close temporarily during the outset of the outbreak, further impacting them. While they are open now, their ability to welcome in customers is somewhat limited due to social distancing measures, and there are still many people who only go out to outdoor places or only shop for necessities. The pandemic has provided one opportunity, however, as they were able to print custom masks.
 
In the future, Medlin is looking forward to things returning to normal so he can get back to giving as many customers as possible the best possible treatment. Although the name Rockland Athletic Supplies might imply a focus on sporting goods, and indeed it is a big part of their history, it is only a portion of the business. The business has been branching out to focus on various clients from restaurants, small businesses, and corporate accounts throughout the South Shore. They continue to strive to serve more aspects of their customers’ needs. 

Visit them in person at 320 Union Street in Rockland, MA.

Contact them via:
Phone: 781-878-6481 or 781-878-6506
Website: https://rocklandathletics.com
Facebook: @RAS320
Instagram: @rocklandathleticsupplies
Twitter: @rocklandath 

​Author: Kloe Joseph, BSU student

In a time where “almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction,”[1] but only 10% of these people with a substance abuse disorder seek professional help, the need for a shift in the therapeutic industry proves dire. There is no denying the intrinsic link between mental health and the presence of a person with a substance disorder as many as “20% of Americans who have depression or an anxiety disorder” are also afflicted by a substance abuse disorder. Yleis Engerman, a licensed mental health counselor and alcohol and drug counselor, is fully aware of these statistics and the real-world repercussions they pose. Engerman began her journey with mental health at the age of sixteen after the passing of her childhood best friend, seeking therapy as a means to cope. Now in her adulthood, armed with an education and years of experience, Engerman is establishing herself as a facet of change slowly revolutionizing the idea of therapy within the scope of addiction and what it means to seek help. 
 
Engerman is the private practice owner of My Self Oath (www.myselfoath.org) located in Brockton, Massachusetts. During the height of the pandemic she, like most others, found herself with a large amount of free time. However, like many Americans during this time, she was worried about her job security, so she took the initiative to not only create a contingency plan but to do so with an issue that she is truly passionate about. Making no waste of this new free time, she began work on creating her business. In its nascency, Engerman had expected the business to amass a small number of clients, hoping for around five of them. Her expectations were met and surpassed by threefold, when she started off with more than fifteen clients. While the prospect of having many clients interested in her service was a positive, it also proved to be one of the toughest challenges as well. This is due to her innate desire to help others through her practice, which can be difficult as she is only able to see a certain number of clients at any given time, while others make their way onto a waiting list. Though Engerman does utilize methods of advertisement such as social media and her website, the main contributor to her success has been word of mouth, a testament to her ability to connect with clients and provide a truly enjoyable therapy experience.

[1]  “Addiction Statistics - Facts on Drug and Alcohol Use.” Addiction Center, 18 Sept. 2020, www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/addiction-statistics/.

​My Self Oath stands out amongst other therapy private practices because of Engerman’s unique approach with her clients. Breaking free from the common experience of simply telling a therapist “how you feel” at any given moment, Engerman strives to foster a personal connection with her clients through her personable demeanor. After reflecting on the journey of creating her business, one of the only things Engerman would want to do differently would be choosing to create her website herself, rather than contracting someone to do it for her. Looking towards the future of her practice, she hopes to make her business sustainable as well as profitable within the next year. Finally, for those who wish to follow a similar path as Engerman, she offers the following advice: “stay focused, stay consistent, and don’t take everybody’s word as absolute.”
​

​My Self Oath is located at 33 Dover Street, Suite 317, in Brockton, MA.
 
Contact them via:
Phone 508-521-9044
Email: admin@myselfoath.org
Website: www.myselfoath.org
Facebook: @MySelfOath

​Author:  Molly Farrell, BSU student

​Have you ever wanted to find a local place to walk in and truly feel like family? REVD Indoor Cycling strives on their mission to help you achieve your best self, both mentally and physically. REVD provides many different opportunities including their 45 minute ride that focuses around the rhythm of the music.
 
Co-owner Meaghan St. Marc grew up in Connecticut and received her undergrad degree at Northeastern University in broadcasting. Although St. Marc did not play college athletics, she enjoyed working out and getting involved around campus. Cycling has always been a passion of St Marc’s. After getting used to the Monday through Friday nine-to-five routine, St. Marc noticed she enjoyed her time in the gym the most. St. Marc was reconnected with a mutual friend, Clyde Simms, former player on the New England Revolution, when they decided it was time to go forward with their dream. Fast forward over six years later and REVD Indoor Cycling now has six locations one located in Hingham, MA in the Derby Street Shoppes.
 
REVD Indoor Cycling was founded in 2014 in Dedham, MA. St. Marc and Simms decided on a boutique spin class that went off the rhythm of the music. Simms has a background in music allowing for them to really connect and understand how the beat of the music matches with the movement on the bike. With the dark lights and loud music, their studios allow you to forget what is going on outside of the class and truly take time for yourself to unwind and challenge yourself both physically and mentally. It is an immersive experience that allows the riders to connect with the rhythm, while simultaneously working on their fitness levels. 

​They operate as one of most popular boutique spin studios in Massachusetts. REVD is an inclusive environment allowing individuals to create the best version of themselves. The studio is comfortable, encouraging, and forms a community. The experience that one endures at REVD is unlike any other, which explains why it is a popular scene for individuals seeking physical activity in a unique and enjoyable delivery.
 
One of the hardest parts of opening the studio for St. Marc was understanding and realizing that she was taking a leap with quitting her full time job to follow her dreams.
 
Six years later and just all small businesses, REVD is battling through the COVID-19 pandemic. Owners and staff have done a tremendous job of finding ways to still provide their service to the community in all ways possible. Since the studios have closed, REVD has rented out bikes to the community and have provided different forms of rides for people to ride at home. REVD has also formed “REVD training camp” a high intensity group training program.
 
REVD stands out over other cycling studios because it is formatted to be athletically challenging. REVD allows people to challenge yourself in a safe way and allows the rider will get lost in the rhythm. While REVD offers a physically challenging class, their classes are open to all cycling abilities. All instructors go through a developmental program and each instructor is all taught how to create this welcoming environment. This welcoming environment is what helps them bring in new riders. It is no wonder why their business has been so successful; they welcome new riders with open arms and create a community that encourages individuals to improve in both a physical and mental aspect. By word of mouth and their friendly atmosphere, new riders are always coming to try out REVD Indoor Cycling. REVD also has different forms of social media that allows them to create a platform of displaying their product.
 
So next time you are in the South Shore area, make sure you stop by REVD Indoor Cycling and allow yourself to get lost in the music. 
​

Rev’d is located at 94 Derby Street, Suite 235 Hingham, MA.
 
Contact them via:
E-Mail: hingham@revdindoorcycling.com
Phone: 781-556-5757
Website: revdindoorcycling.com
Facebook: @RevdCycling
Instagram: @RevdCycling

​Author: Justine Baggia, BSU student

J4 LLC is a roofing company that has operated in Massachusetts since 2000. The owner, Joel Baggia, has been running the company since the very beginning. In a recent interview done with Joel, I received insight into how the business has maintained successful throughout the years:
 
Are you from this local area?
Yes, I grew up in East Bridgewater and I still live in the South Shore.
 
Why did you choose this line of business?
I chose roofing because I was able to be self-employed, which was always a goal of mine, and I had previous experience in the home improvement field. The profit potential in roofing was what made me focus in on starting a business in this specific field, though.
 
What was the toughest thing you went through when opening? What inspired you to keep going as you were getting the business off the ground?
I’d say marketing was the hardest part when first starting. Trying to reach new customers from different areas was the biggest challenge, but when you’re putting out high quality work, word of mouth is very beneficial. Happy customers are obviously more likely to refer you to their friends, family, and neighbors, so making sure the customers are pleased with the process and the final result is important.
 
What is the toughest part about having a business in 2020?
Licensing and paperwork are definitely the toughest parts when it comes running a business in the construction field. I had to receive my construction supervisor license and home improvement contractor license in order to operate, and the paperwork to ensure everything is running smoothly is nearly endless. 

If a customer was to choose between your business and 3 others just like it, why would you suggest they gives yours a try first? What makes you stand out?

The speed that my crew works at definitely makes us stand out. We can produce high quality results at a pace that makes our customers happy. My roofers work very hard and the overall efficiency and reliability is what I believe definitely sets us apart from other companies.
 

What is the number one way you currently bring in new customers?
Facebook
 
Do you believe internet technology has played a big part in your growth and making the company more successful?
Absolutely. It helps to reach new customers quicker and increases our referrals.
 
If you had to look 6 months into the future, where would you like to see your business be?
I definitely would like to remain hands-on with the projects and continue to grow my company. 
​

J4 LLC is located in East Bridgewater, MA.
 
Contact them via:
Phone: (508)378-9300
Website: J4llc.com
Facebook: @j4LLC