Grounded in Granite

Jason Schreiber

Grounded in Granite is a weekly on-location podcast that highlights the people and places that define life in New Hampshire. Hosted by longtime journalist Jason Schreiber, each episode features in-person conversations that will bring the Granite State’s voices, places, and spirit to life in a new way. From the Seacoast to the Great North Woods, this podcast explores the idea that every person, and every place, has a story to tell. Stay tuned and don't forget to follow Grounded in Granite to join in on this journey across New Hampshire!

  1. Jun 15

    Reviving Ruggles Mine: How Prospector Joe Saved a N.H. Landmark and America's Oldest Mica Mine

    On this episode of Grounded in Granite, host Jason Schreiber travels to historic Ruggles Mine in Grafton, N.H., to sit down with owner Joe Bodge -- known as Prospector Joe -- who shares the captivating story of his unlikely journey to bring this 200-year-old mica mine back to life as a local attraction. Prospector Joe bought Ruggles Mine -- the oldest and largest mica mine in the United States -- on a whim a few years ago after it was closed to the public several years ago. He reopened the mine, located at 286 Underhill Road, and turned it into a breathtaking cultural and natural playground, where visitors leave with more than the minerals they collect ... they leave with memories. During their conversation from the entrance to the mine, Prospector Joe explains how his vision for preservation and education is reviving Grafton’s community spirit. From unearthing rare minerals to promoting conservation and wildlife, his work offers a fresh perspective on turning history into a living adventure. In many ways, his passion for rockhounding is preserving the past, enriching the present, and inspiring future explorers—right in the heart of New Hampshire. For more information on Ruggles Mine, visit www.rugglesmine.net. **Don't forget to subscribe to the Grounded in Granite YouTube channel so you don't miss the next conversation. You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart radio and Amazon Music. Be sure to follow Grounded in Granite on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for behind-the-scenes photos and more.

    31 min
  2. Jun 8

    A New Hampshire Santa Supper: What It's Really Like to Be a Professional Santa

    On this episode of Grounded in Granite, host Jason Schreiber stops by the New England Santa Society's monthly Santa Supper in Manchester, N.H., to explore what life is really like year-round for professional Santas.  The supper is held at the Common Man Roadside Millyard and attracts Santas from across New Hampshire and New England who come together for casual conversations and to share experiences and learn from one another. Society co-founder Dan Greenleaf and the group's president, Brian Marvel, sit down to share their experiences, the importance of training, and the unique challenges of being Santa. From connecting with kids to handling those tough questions, it’s a journey that requires passion and creativity.   They also discuss the society's summer Santa Camp, a weekend-long training event held in Greenfield, N.H., that has become crucial for new Santas to learn how to portray the role authentically.  For more information on the New England Santa Society and its Santa Suppers and Santa Camp, visit www.newenglandsantasociety.org. **Don't forget to follow Grounded in Granite YouTube so you don't miss the next conversation. You can watch full episodes on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio and Amazon Music. Be sure to follow Grounded in Granite on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X for behind-the-scenes photos and more.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction and overview of the New England Santa Society and the Santa Supper in Manchester 03:29 - Details about Santa Camp, its educational programs, and the importance of training. 05:46 - Explanation of Santa Suppers and their purpose.07:37 - Discussion of trend toward healthier Santas 09:28 - Exploring the responsibilities and challenges of being Santa.18:22 - Personal experiences and rewarding moments as Santa. 26:18 - The significance of Santa Camp for new Santas. 30:36 - How Dan Greenleaf and Brian Marvel became Santas. 33:16 - Encouragement to join the Santa Society and final thoughts.

    36 min

About

Grounded in Granite is a weekly on-location podcast that highlights the people and places that define life in New Hampshire. Hosted by longtime journalist Jason Schreiber, each episode features in-person conversations that will bring the Granite State’s voices, places, and spirit to life in a new way. From the Seacoast to the Great North Woods, this podcast explores the idea that every person, and every place, has a story to tell. Stay tuned and don't forget to follow Grounded in Granite to join in on this journey across New Hampshire!

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