The Optimists Club helps support Granite Goodness and New England’s wider local news ecosystem.
At Granite Goodness we believe that GOOD NEWS can help LOCAL NEWS.
Memberships are priced at $5 per month or $45 annually.
A portion of club revenue is donated to support local journalism across New England, including groups like the Granite State News Collaborative.
Members receive:
A monthly MAILED PRINT NEWSLETTER featuring our favorite local + global stories of progress, plus digital access for members
Discounts for Granite Goodness live events and merchandise.
A spot on our public member page alongside 100+ optimists from across New England.1 Members are randomly selected for features in the Optimists Club newsletter.
Want to gift a membership to someone who could use a little optimism? You can do that too!
Join us!
THANK YOU ALL for being part of this community and for helping me believe that optimism isn’t naive. It’s pragmatic.
Hard, and worth it.
Granite and good.
-Andy
So who’s in this thing?
Meet the 133 people (and counting!) who make Granite Goodness possible.2
Below you can find their:
Name
Title (if provided)
Town
A quote on why they joined (if provided)
Picture
Join date
A “🎙️” means they’ve been on the podcast!
Kara Lingenfelter, Senior Ops Manager @ 3Play Media, a media accessibility company (North Haven, CT)
“I joined to remind myself that not all news is bad news. There are good people in New England doing amazing things, and I look forward to reading all about them. Hope is a good thing!” - 10/11/2026
Andrew Safnauer, Founder & Principal @ NineFive Partners (Fort Mill, SC)
“I joined because I’m curious to learn about things that don’t seem to cut through the noise of other sources I’m exposed to. I love NE (so many great family memories of travel there).” - 10/6/2026
Katie (ME)
“Truthfully, I’m not an optimist yet (but I want to be! this is me working on it...). I joined as soon as I saw the option for physically printed goodnews - I believe in the magic of mail! #supportUSPS ” - 10/6/2026
Ang Richards, Founder @ Unapologetically Professional (Boston, MA)
“I joined because we need more stories of good news in New England!” - 9/29/2026
Bailey Jones, PhD Student @ University of NH (Dover, NH)
“I joined the optimist club because hearing about the good others are doing helps everyone feel they have the power to do the same in their own way!” - 9/29/2026
Safaa Ahmed Bilal (Durham, NH)
“Humans aren’t meant to know all the horrors of the entire world and I realized that too late, so I am excited to shift my mind and read some hopeful and positive stories. So excited to be part of the Optimists Club!” - 9/29/2026
Courtney Starrett (Francestown, NH)
“I joined because it’s all too easy to get lost in a doomscroll of bad news. While I still feel a need to stay informed of everything, it’s wildly important that we’re reminded that amazing people are working hard to do amazing things in New Hampshire (and beyond!) Andy + Kaelli are doing incredible work to make sure we know about this side of the news too!” - 9/28/2026
Chad Klinefelter (Belmont, MA)
“I joined the Optimists Club for a change of pace from the constant doomscrolling. I have great memories in all of our New England states, and I want to know more about the amazing things happening here!” - 9/28/2026
Shannon Sullivan, Chief Advancement Officer @ The Moore Center (Manchester, NH)
“It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the negativity that seems to permeate the news and information we see or hear on a daily basis. Why not be part of something that celebrates “good” things and amazing people doing important work across our state and region? We all need more of the happy!” - 9/27/2026
Ben Precourt (Cambridge, MA)
“Before Optimists Club, I was truly the most troublesome bump on a log, a stick in the mud, a bonafide party pooper. After subscribing, all I do is glimmer. I am a changed man. And - in all seriousness - this is incredibly important work. I am so grateful to know more about the good work (and, good people doing that work) here in New England.” - 9/24/2026
Marianne Bradley-Sargent, Head of Marketing @ Normandeau Associates
“I’m an optimist because I truly believe that when you get motivated optimists together they don’t just talk about and celebrate “the good,” they also find solutions to “the bad.” They band together with an intense sense of hope; they connect and dream together. And that’s the only way to move forward.” - 9/21/2026
Gabe Kesper (West Newbury, MA)
Gabe joined 9/23/2026 and opted to share a piece of art for his photo, titled “Get Shown the Light.”
Rawan AlSarraf (Kittery, ME)
“In a world filled with the most depressing and enraging news, there is no reason not to support feel-good initiatives where you can (especially local!)” - 9/16/2026
Caitie Glidden (Dover, NH)
“As someone who tries to focus on the positive and keep morale up for those around me, including myself, in a world that is overloaded with negative media everywhere you turn it was great to find a group focusing on optimistic news. Especially so close to home for me! I look forward to see what is to come!” - 9/15/2026
Lisa Boyko (New Britain, CT)
“I’m trying to sprinkle more optimism into my life, and the optimists club looks like the perfect way to start!” - 9/10/2026
Corinne Breton, Executive Director @ Stay Work Play (Manchester, NH) joined August 2026🎙️
“I joined the Optimists Club because Granite Goodness highlights so many of the reasons why NH is a great place for young people to build thriving lives.” - December, 2025
Mike Skelton, CEO @ BIA of NH (Bedford, NH) 🎙️
“I joined optimists club because I think what makes New Hampshire special is the interconnectedness of our community leaders working together to solve the challenges facing our state.” - April, 2026
Julianna Dodson, Executive Director @ Hannah Grimes Center + Radically Rural (Keene, NH) 🎙️
“One of my favorite authors, Shaun Chamberlin, describes Dark Optimism, as ‘...unashamedly positive about the kind of future we could be creating, and unashamedly realistic about how far we are from doing so today.’ That’s why honest optimism is so essential. Without highlighting the web of good efforts already happening; without the sincere belief that we have what it takes to do the kind of deep reckoning and renewal we need for a truly viable future, what hope do we have? Beyond the philosophy, the practice of storytelling, gathering, and making connections that otherwise wouldn’t be made is a gift that Granite Goodness is giving us.” - February, 2026
Zeina Eyceoz, Executive Director @ NH Businesses for Social Responsibility (Nashua, NH) 🎙️
“I joined the Optimists Club to counteract the "bad news fatigue" and isolation that often paralyzes changemakers. I want to see where progress is happening in their own backyard, transforming abstract hope into concrete examples of neighbors solving problems.” - December, 2025
Rob Dapice, Executive Director & CEO @ NH Housing Finance Authority (Bedford, NH)
“I joined because Andy does an amazing job sharing the stories of all the good things happening in NH! Thank you!” - December, 2025
Kim Varney Chandler, author of Covered Bridges of New Hampshire (Hancock, NH)
“I joined because Andy brings positivity and goodness to New Hampshire!” - January, 2026
Michele Holt-Shannon, Director @ Center for Engaged Communities & NH Listens (Durham, NH)
“I’m an optimist because there are a lot of good people working for the public good!” - April, 2026
Chris Dugan, Nonprofit & Communications + Development Professional (Hooksett, NH)
“I enjoy Granite Goodness because it emphasizes and highlights New England’s ‘Cans’ not ‘Can'ts’. Plus we learn cool stuff.” - April, 2026
Sam Coetzee, (Manchester, NH)
“Joining the Optimists Club was a small and intentional way for me to encourage positive thinking in my community! Andy and Kaelli get it — optimism doesn’t mean turning a blind eye when things are bad. It means knowing good things are worth fighting for.” - September, 2026
Mark Lefebvre, Author and Community Consultant (Hampton Falls, NH) 🎙️
“I’m an optimist because I continue to find kind people in my journey. I joined this club so that I could find more of the same.” - January, 2026
Nate Hastings, Vice President @ Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth (Dover, NH) 🎙️
“I’m joining because it’s important for us to learn about the good things that are happening!” - January, 2026
Tim Smith-Gerding, President @ Blackbird Collective (Concord, NH) 🎙️
“I joined because the world needs optimism more than ever. I believe that in my soul. And I always find Andy’s content timely and uplifting.” - February, 2026
Jesse Lore, Founder & CEO @ Green Wave Electric Vehicles (North Hampton, NH)🎙️
“My kids make me optimistic. They’re smarter than me, they have better ideas, and they genuinely care about the future. Also, every time I drive an electric car, it makes me optimistic, not just because they help the planet, but because they’re simply better. When people experience something better, they share it. That’s how progress happens.” - December, 2025
Stephanie Cook, Co-owner @ Northeast Detailing (Manchester NH)
“I want all the Granite Goodness there is to offer!” - March, 2026
Sara Bee-Pichette (Manchester, NH)
“I joined because I want the world- and New Hampshire - to be a happy place! And because Andy DeMeo is the most genuine and entertaining person I know.” - May, 2026
Justin Munroe, Executive Director @ Grow Nashua (Nashua, NH)
“I joined because I believe in focusing energy on positive information will attract and create more positive actions.” - May, 2026
Keith Sandbloom, inclusive banking advocate & cyclist (Milford, NH)
“I want everyone's glass to be half-full. The stories I hear coming from Granite Goodness share the same orientation.” - March, 2026
Jason Plant, CFO @ Sensorium Technological Laboratories (Sanbornton, NH)🎙️
“I joined the Optimists Club to get global solutions journalism from my favorite creator, Andy DeMeo!” - December, 2025
Tracey Pelton, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Affairs @ PROCON (Amherst, NH)
“I joined the optimists club because I am an eternal optimist and love hearing all of the good going on around New Hampshire and supporting people and businesses in our great state who are doing great work. In the world today, we need more stories of hope, optimism and progress.” - July, 2026
Jenna Bee Wolf, Director of Philanthropy @ Friends of Aine (Manchester, NH)
“I am a lifelong optimist. My curiosity, education, and career, have taken me all over the world, and now I’ve landed back in New Hampshire. I have always associated my home state with an overwhelming commitment to pragmatism; I found more fellow optimists in other places. But after moving back home, having kids, and working in New Hampshire nonprofits (which need to be very practical), I am so grateful to Andy for aggregating the optimism! Thanks to the Granite Goodness team and to everyone else who has made the commitment to support positivity alongside pragmatism :)” - February, 2026
Madison Vasquez (Stratham, NH)
“I joined the Optimists Club because I believe that what you focus on expands. It is a gift to be reminded of the progress and possibility that surrounds us. I look forward to staying engaged and informed in this community.” - April, 2026
Andrea Burns, realtor & volunteer (Sanbornton, NH)
“I joined because a good friend gifted it to me, and I am so glad he did. I thrive on learning about and spreading good news in these days in which the plethora of good news is overshadowed by the bad news.” - June, 2026
Alyssa Badolato (Hudson, NH)
“I joined the optimists club because I think that’s what the world needs more of right now. Unrequited positivity and a want to create more of it!” - March, 2026
Sarah Andrews, Founder & Consultant @ Andrews Coaching & Consulting (Manchester, NH)
“I joined because we need more positive news and views and I want to be in the company of other positive voices in our great state and beyond.” - March, 2026
Brooks Oliver, Director of Development @ University of NH (Manchester, NH)
“There are so many great things happening in NH and New England. I want to support the efforts of Granite Goodness to shine a light on those stories.” - May, 2026
Ashley Ryall, Writer, Wanderer, Speakers Agent (Dover, NH)
“I joined the optimists club because we think and treat each other differently when we’re exposed to good news, and it’s time the fear-mongering news took a back seat.” - August, 2026
Christina FitzPatrick, State Director @ AARP New Hampshire (Bow, NH)
“I joined the optimists club because it’s important to tell the story of what it means to age with dignity and purpose.” - April, 2026
Amanda Grappone Osmer, Chief Vision Officer @ Grappone Automotive (Bow, NH) 🎙️
“I joined because I like to smile, and I appreciate that Granite Goodness doesn’t let us hide behind bad news. NH + good news = heaven on Earth.” - June, 2026
Sarah McGraw-Small, Soil Conservationist, New Hampshire
“The need for hyper local news is great. I know there are lots of people doing great things and this platform helps spread the goodness.” - June, 2026
Madelyn Bradley, Energy Analyst (“Delightful” Dover, NH)
“I joined the optimist club because I believe in the mission of Granite Goodness! In a world where people seem jaded by all of the headlines, it is exciting to have news to look forward to and remind us that there is still goodness all around us and progress being made.” - January, 2026
Haley Levesque, Founder @ NH Community Media (Nashua, NH)
“I joined the Optimists Club because I believe that creators like Andy can build community, build connection, and ultimately build the future of NH and beyond.” - August, 2026
Melissa Fisk, Chief People Officer (Concord, NH)
“I joined because I am embracing a new YOLO lifestyle. I recently had a significant health issue that opened my eyes to a lot of things, and I want to surround myself with all things good!” - April, 2026
Trinnie Houghton, CEO & Founder @ Ripple Effect Studio (Concord, NH)
“Finding right helps me shift my everyday narrative, to see clearly and help regulate my nervous system. It also reminds me that my reality is more than just one story.” - June, 2026
Sam Howard, Business Development Manager @DEW Construction (Contoocook, NH)
“I joined because I want to help highlight all of the great things in our state!” - July, 2026
Michael Hurd, Life Coach & Business Coach (Falmouth, ME, but NH native!)
“I joined the optimists club because I believe that spreading optimism makes the world a better place.” July, 2026
Laura Ruttle-Miller, City Councilor @ City of Keene (Keene, NH)
“I love what you do! Bringing attention to all of the good happening in the 603 is what we need more of!” - April, 2026
Anna Wells, Program Coordinator @ Plan NH (Contoocook, NH)
"I support Granite Goodness because Andy is 100%+ the vibe we need right now. I desperately need the good stories and good energy - uplifting the goodness keeps me motivated to keep working for a better world." - June, 2026
Marisa Rafal, Founder @ NH Toy Library Network (Boston, MA) 🎙️
“I joined because I loved being on the Granite Goodness podcast : )” - December, 2025
Andrea Martin, Lead Organizer @ Give and Gather (Eliot, ME)
“I joined because in times like these it matters that we show up for each other.” - June, 2026
Mandy Sliver (Peterborough, NH)
“I joined the optimists club to support voices that lead with hope. In a world where negativity often feels louder and more powerful, the club affirms that optimism is not naïve or weak, but a deliberate choice our communities need more of.” - January, 2026
Mason Lord, Founder @ Tradesup (Kent, CT)
“I joined because I love stories and I have lots of stories while showing young children how to use tools with their hands. So many stories of joy and satisfaction.” - December, 2026
Anna Paddock (Tamworth, NH)
“I believe that the trajectory of the universe arcs towards justice. There's no denying that there are a lot of bad things in the world, and we should put energy into fixing those problems. However, we NEED to know what is going right in the world - what solutions humanity is creating - in order to have the desire and will to make the world a better place. Granite Goodness is my dose of hope, that reminds me that there are lots of people who care and are working hard to make this world a better place. Joining the Optimists Club is how I show my appreciation for these much needed stories of genuine progress.” - February, 2026
Dylan Wheeler, Founder @ Fighting Entropy (New Hampshire & Greater Boston)
“I build companies from scratch here in New Hampshire, and optimism is a job requirement. Granite Goodness highlights the region’s progress stories that hardly anyone else is telling. I believe that the world is simultaneously deeply flawed, at its historic best, and full of untapped potential. And that’s why we grind 💪” - March, 2026
Ryan Randall, Founder @ AgentMark (Dover, NH)
“I joined because I like the print newsletter!” - December, 2026
Mary Mcmanus (Brookline, MA)
“Having faced challenges since I was 5 years old with contracting paralytic polio and then enduring years of abuse at the hands of family members, I realized that the only way to get through challenges is with optimism; knowing that a better future is waiting for me and I just needed to figure out how to create it. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, I joined my optimism with the power of gratitude to create a future very different than the one Western Medicine predicted for me. Optimism (and gratitude) are infectious and I want to help spread the power of optimism by joining with fellow optimists. I love that Granite Goodness highlights goodness in the New England area. I look forward to wonderful connections and helping to build the community of goodness and optimism that is needed now more than ever.” - January, 2026
Garth Gergerich (Norton, MA)
“I believe in supporting the things I want to exist in the world, and taking every opportunity to nudge us toward kindness and progress.” - December, 2026
Vinicius Isola (Billerica, MA)
“I joined the Optimists Club because we need people telling stories about the good in the world.” - January, 2026
Jake Gehrung, Fullbright Scholar & PhD student @ University of Strathclyde (Peterborough, NH)
“I joined the Optimists Club because Granite Goodness is a light in my life.” - February, 2026
Matt Doubleday (Portsmouth, NH)
“I joined the optimists club because there are many things worth paying attention to in our world today but we tend to have an exclusive focus and borderline obsession with the negative. The does makes the poison. This does not make us more informed and it can leave us feeling hopeless. We need to leave space for the positive stories and people that are making our community and world better every day so that we know the fight against these negative happenings is not only possible but worth pursuing.” - January, 2026
Laura Cleminson, Founder, Pre-Dead Social Club (Portsmouth, NH)🎙️
“What makes me optimistic is that people keep showing up for my community. I haven’t done much advertising, and yet people find this work. They come back again and again, they share it with others, and they genuinely want to be part of it. That tells me something real—that people are searching for meaning, for connection, and for growth. The authenticity is what keeps it alive.” - January, 2026
Tess Waresmith, Founder @ Wealth with Tess (Worcester, MA)
“I joined because I like being in the company of optimists!” - December, 2025
Ian Grant, serial entrepreneur and Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer @ CoastX (Kittery, ME) 🎙️
“I’ve been an optimist for as long as I can remember. Even as a kid, I believed things would work out—that if I stayed smart, persistent, and a little lucky, I could find a way through any challenge. It’s not something you can fake. It’s just how I see the world, and it’s what allows me to see opportunities where others see obstacles.” December, 2025
Jayson Seaman, Professor @ University of NH (Durham, NH)
“I support any initiative that helps make NH a place where young people want and are able to stay and build lives for themselves.” - February, 2026
Carly Salvagno (Westford, MA)
“I joined because I love optimism!” - March, 2026
Nikki Shults, Executive Director @ Building Community in New Hampshire (Center Barnstead, NH)
“Working in nonprofits, I certainly see and feel the bad news. But even more than that, everyday I work alongside the incredible people who resist the hateful narratives and do good for our neighbors. Those are the people and stories that we need to amplify - there is so much to be optimistic about if you look for it.” - April, 2026
Alex (Pirate) Sterling, CEO @ Turtle Island Community Capital (East Greenwich, RI)
“I joined because I love the idea of sharing stories of hope and genuine improvement to continue building hope in the future.” February, 2026
Lisa Drake, Board of Directors Chair @ NH Businesses for Social Responsibility (Manchester, NH)
"Good people doing good things. Who doesn’t want to be informed about that!?” - January, 2026
Shelby Miuzzo, Director of Nonprofit & Agency Partnerships @ Granite Edvance (Newmarket, NH)
“As a perennial optimist, I believe optimism is not about ignoring the darkness, but rather about making the choice to let the light in- Granite Goodness does just that.” - March, 2026
Chad Moore (Hampton, NH)
“I’ve joined the optimists club as optimism is additive and infectious. The more exposure to optimism one has, the easier it is to be optimistic!” - March, 2026
Dovev Levine, Assistant Dean for Graduate Student Affairs & Assistant Vice Provost for Outreach & Engagement @ University of NH (Portsmouth, NH)🎙️
“What makes me optimistic is the people. The deeper I get into this work, the more I meet people who genuinely want to do the right thing. When you bring those people together and make it easy for them to engage, that’s where real progress happens.” - December, 2025
Talia Wujtewicz, grant consultant (West Springfield, MA)
“I joined the Optimists Club because I believe there’s so much worth celebrating that gets buried under an endless tide of bad news and outrage. To me, optimism is a conscious choice, and this felt like the perfect community to make that choice alongside.” - March, 2026
Krysta Gingue, volunteer (Dover, NH)
“I joined the optimists club to support meaningful collaborative work in the granite state that Andy is championing. Our community is stronger when those that are doing important work can be connected with other professionals, advocates, and do-gooders that share their values and can work together towards shared goals.” - February, 2026
Anna Yates, Head of EHS & Sustainability @ Albany International (Portsmouth, NH) 🎙️
“Some of the challenges we face, like climate change, are terrifying—I’ve seen the changes firsthand in places I grew up. It makes it real. But alongside that, I see an incredible amount of potential. I see innovation, commitment, and people stepping up. That’s what makes me optimistic—not because the challenges aren’t serious, but because the response to them is already underway.” - May, 2026
Zack Angelini, Program Advisor @ University of NH International Changemaker Grant (Newmarket, NH) 🎙️
“I joined the optimist club because I believe we need to put more attention and energy towards the positive things we want to see more of in the world!” - December, 2025
Sue Kaplan, Founder & Senior Consultant @ Sustainable Futures Consulting (Andover, NH) 🎙️
“I’m optimistic because human beings want to help. Even in difficult or divisive times, when something truly matters, people show up. They step forward, they support each other, and they do kind and meaningful things. That instinct—to be helpers—is still very much alive, and that’s what gives me hope.” - May, 2026
Fiona Wilson, Co-Chair & Member @ Revision Energy Board of Directors (Portland, ME) 🎙️
“Optimism starts with believing you can make a difference, you might. If you believe you can’t, you definitely won’t. What gives people hope—and what helps combat despair—is a sense of agency. Being part of something, working alongside others, and believing there are real solutions. Because without that belief, nothing moves forward.” - December, 2025
Megan Murray (Bedford, NH)
“I joined because we could all use a little more optimism and positivity in our day. It naturally influences how you show up for others, handle challenges, and support the community around you.” - February, 2026
Adriana Torres, Creator @ The Process Reinvention LLC (Milford, NH)
“We can be focused on the problems, or focused on the solutions. Being an optimist doesn’t mean practicing toxic positivity; it means acknowledging the challenges, recognizing the complexity of the issues we face, and also having a positive outlook on the future driven by Hope and Intentional Action. It comes down to choice. I choose to believe in the universal humanity of people, and in the power of connectivity and collaborative efforts toward a common goal. Being an optimist carries an advantage: We attract other people who want to dream the impossible and make it happen. Be Well & Joyfully Optimistic! 😊” - March, 2026
Jack Potvin, Founder @ Business Automation & Project Happy (Portsmouth, NH)
“There is nothing more important than our communities seeing an optimistic future is ahead - Andy & GG deliver in a big way.” - January, 2026
Alix Martin, Archaeologist @ Strawbery Banke Museum (Dover, NH) 🎙️
“My optimism is influenced by my work as a historical archaeologist: I believe people are essentially good, and are striving for good in their communities. Granite Goodness helps remind us of this historic trend!” - January, 2026
Doug Teschner, Author of Beyond the Politics of Contempt (West Lebanon, NH)
“In a climate of widespread contempt and even hatred for people who disagree politically, we can each make important contributions to better our lives, our relationships, and our country. While many fear for our nation’s future, there are practical steps we can each take to build hope for a better America.” - February, 2026
Dija Haq, Student, (Durham, NH)
“I joined the optimists club because I think it’s fun to hear stories that make you smile. Plus, it’s such a great conversation starter!” - April, 2026
Matt Marzola, Producer, Audio Engineer, & Composer (Londonderry, NH)
“In my experience through collaboration and teaching, optimism is the single most powerful way to achieve progress, motivation, and efficiency. Granite Goodness encompasses this and creates a culture around positivity.” - March, 2026
Alex Freid, Director of Atlas Zero Waste @ PLAN (Dover, NH) 🎙️
“This is my favorite quote and I think it speaks well to the vision of this collective: ‘To be hopeful in bad times is not just foolishly romantic. It is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty, but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness. What we choose to emphasize in this complex history will determine our lives. If we see only the worst, it destroys our capacity to do something. If we remember those times and places—and there are so many—where people have behaved magnificently, this gives us the energy to act, and at least the possibility of sending this spinning top of a world in a different direction. And if we do act, in however small a way, we don’t have to wait for some grand utopian future. The future is an infinite succession of presents, and to live now as we think human beings should live, in defiance of all that is bad around us, is itself a marvelous victory.’ — Howard Zinn” - April, 2026
Jeremy Gerber, Membership Manager @ Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (Essex, VT)
“I joined the optimists club because my entire world view was completely reshaped after listening to a podcast with Andy and his counterpart in Vermont, Lynda Ulrich from The Goodness Exchange. I now move about my life and work with a much stronger sense of hope and appreciation.” - February, 2026
Ande Lyons, Founder @ New England Podcasters Group (Andover, MA)
“I joined the Granite Goodness Optimists Club because I believe in the power of conversations that uplift, connect, and remind us of the good in each other. In person connection, collaboration and celebration is needed now, more than ever, to bring more goodness to the world.” - May, 2026
Caroline Tremblay, Owner & Content Director @ Owl & Pen LLC & The Monadnocker (Richmond, NH) 🎙️
“I joined the Optimist Club because I have such deep respect for this work. The stories we tell affect not only our outlook, but our pride in place and the way we act, speak, and feel about our communities. Want to live in a great community? Shout out what’s already working and do more of that.” - April, 2026
Dr. Alissa (Perth, Scotland)
“I have been an early follower of GG as optimism is a force of good we need more of in this world. I love learning the good things people are planning and accomplishing in this little nook of the world. I went to UNH, fell in love with the state, and always thinking about coming back.” - January, 2026
Dylan Beckerman, Founder/CEO/President @ Granite State Imports (Hopkinton, NH)
“I’m an optimist because I believe humanity is wired for curiosity, ingenuity, and relentless problem-solving—and the evidence keeps piling up that we’re getting better at it, even when headlines scream otherwise. What I like about Granite Goodness is that it embodies exactly that spirit in a grounded, no-fluff way.” - August, 2026
Sarah Wrightsman, Community Engagement & Education Manager @ NH Housing + Co-founder @ Creative Guts (Newmarket, NH)🎙️
“Optimism keeps me hopeful that the work we’re all doing is moving us toward a better, brighter future!” - April, 2026
Sawyer Rogers, PhD Student @ University of Massachusetts Amherst (Kensington, NH)
“I joined the optimist club to highlight the great and needed stories happening around New England!” - April, 2026
Zoë Mitchell, NHPR (Concord, NH)
“I joined the Optimists Club because I believe in the power of good news, community connections, and Andy’s ability to make magic happen!” - June, 2026
Andrea Folsom, Executive Director @ NH Recycles (Hopkinton, NH)
“I joined the optimist club because I believe deeply in the power of hope, stories, and that one will always find whatever they are looking for, so I’d prefer to look for the good!” - June, 2026
Corinne Robinson, Graphic Designer (Manchester, NH)
“I joined the Optimists Club because I prefer to look at the bright side!” - July, 2026
Makoto Yabusaki (Boston, MA)
“Andy does cool stuff sometimes.” - July, 2026
Alexis Dwyer, Community Engaged Education Manager @ University of NH Sustainability Institute (Manchester, NH)
“I joined because sustainability is funner when you’re optimistic!” - July, 2026
Nadja Fromm, Founder @ Fromm Consulting (Portsmouth, NH) 🎙️
“Andy built something with Granite Goodness that feels incredibly important right now.
Our brains are naturally wired to scan for what’s wrong. That’s part of how we survived as a species. But in today’s world, where negativity is constant and headlines are designed to pull our attention toward fear, problems, and outrage, that wiring can easily become overwhelming.
Granite Goodness cuts through that.
Not with forced positivity or by pretending the hard stuff doesn’t exist, but by offering perspective. It reminds you that alongside everything that feels heavy, there is still real progress, real good, and real people doing meaningful work.
The Optimists Club and the newsletter have become a kind of reset for me, but also something I actively use in everyday life. As someone who is constantly meeting new people, it gives me thoughtful, unexpected conversation starters that shift interactions in a more positive, human direction.
Andy is not just creating content. He is creating a needed counterbalance, and helping people reconnect with a fuller, more hopeful view of the world... That matters more than ever.” - June, 2026
Rae Lambert, Cofounder @ DNNR (Portsmouth, NH)
“Andy has a rare knack for bringing people together and telling stories that matter. He’s become a real leader of optimism, not the fluffy kind, but the kind rooted in progress, action, and belief in what’s possible. He is deeply empathetic, genuinely pro-growth, and focused on getting things done.
Through Granite Goodness, Andy is becoming a kind of heartbeat for New England, helping show the wider world what this region is capable of. New England has always been full of hardworking, high-integrity people, but we have not always been great at telling our own story. I’m grateful that’s starting to change, thanks to Granite Goodness.” - June, 2026
Ryan Lambert, Cofounder @ DNNR (Portsmouth, NH)
“What Rae said.” - June, 2026
Alen Dumonjić (Keene, NH)
“Gotta support the locals, especially great causes!” - February, 2026
Kate Homet, Environmental Planner / Sustainability Coordinator @ City of Portsmouth (Portsmouth, NH)
"I joined because Andy doesn’t leave me alone. I like his podcast though.” - May, 2026
Gabe Chelius, Small Business Energy Circuit Rider @ Clean Energy NH (Hartland, VT)
“I am optimistic because I see so much potential in the world. I know it can be a great place and I want to help make that happen.” - June, 2026
Cassidy Crawford, Program Manager @ Resilient Buildings Group (Concord, NH)
“I joined because it matters to look on the bright side!” - July, 2026
Jan Ziegler, CEO @ Freitag Marketing (Keene, NH)
“What I like about Granite Goodness is that it cuts through the noise and focuses on real progress. It’s not overly idealistic—it just highlights people and ideas that are actually doing something useful or moving things forward. That kind of perspective makes it easier to stay optimistic without feeling like you’re ignoring reality." - April, 2026
Dan Freund, Real Estate Advisor + Developer (Portsmouth, NH)
"With the world moving toward increasingly automated and impersonal systems, real people still need human connection. I'm here to do my part. Be a blessing when you can." - April, 2026
Hope Puzzo, Tourism Manager @ Greater Portsmouth Chamber Collaborative (Portsmouth, NH)
“I am optimistic for the future because of people like Andy and so many others showing up and doing the hard work to make the Granite State a better (and more positive) place for all.” - April, 2026
Erica Waters (Portsmouth, NH)
“Growing up adopted comes with its own set of challenges, ones that taught me pretty early that your mindset is everything. Optimism has always been my way through, and the Optimist Club community just gets that.” - August, 2026
Jackie Harris, Sustainability Impact Analyst @ Unitil (Durham, NH)
“I joined because the optimism and community gives me hope and reminds me why I do what I do!” - August, 2026
Mikayla Humiston, CSA Manager @ Heron Pond Farm (Kingston, NH)
“I joined because I love to see things grow— plants, people, positive things. Optimism is the fuel for good growth!” - August, 2026
Jessica Crowley, Founder @ Amalgamation Coaching (Portsmouth, NH)
“In a world that often feels overwhelmingly dark and broken, Granite Goodness shines radiant beams of truth and hope. They remind us that progress happens through the persistence of good humans, and that each of us has the power to bring our own spark of change to the world.” - July, 2026
Zoe Dawson, Digital Media Coordinator @ NH Audubon Society (Concord, NH)
“I’m honored to be a part of the Granite Goodness Optimists Club. I care deeply about New Hampshire and New England, and it’s heartwarming to see the impressive local stories coming from the work of great people and organizations. (Plus, we could all use more good news today! Thank you, Granite Goodness.)” - February, 2026
Colleen Spear, Founder @ Spearpoint Strategies (Portsmouth, NH)
“If we don’t think things can be good, why bother trying? Optimism is the only option for moving beyond our problems today.” - March, 2026
Zara Cheney, EV Analyst @ National Grid (Somerville, MA)
“I joined because I believe in the power of positive thinking!” - July, 2026
Aimee Terravechia, Executive Director @ 603 Equality + Founder & Editor @ NH Culture Review (Laconia, NH)
“I wanted to join the optimist club because hope is a powerful tool for social change.” - September, 2026
Paige Levesque, Engineer (Merrimack, NH)
“I am optimistic because of the fantastic sense of community that I’ve seen and experienced across so many facets of New Hampshire, as there is so much that can be accomplished through connection and the goodness of people. What I love most about Granite Goodness is the platform that it provides for these accomplishments to shine. Andy’s hard work to bring positive stories from a wide range of industries to the forefront gives people the chance to see and appreciate the good that is happening all around us, most of which we may not otherwise be exposed to.” - January, 2026
Jules Good, State Advocacy Manager @ Autistic Self Advocacy Network🎙️
“Now more than ever, younger people are thinking intersectionally and recognizing that our fates are tied, that liberation will only be achieved collectively. Seeing that actualize gives me so much hope that we are on the right track and will solve the problems we need to solve together." - December, 2025
Steve Ivanoski, Founder & CEO @ Dr. Beewell (Portsmouth, NH)🎙️
“Anyone who knows me would tell you I’m a pretty positive person who is generally frustrated with how pessimistic and negative things in our lives can be. It’s everywhere. However, when someone is authentically positive, not just pretending a broken system is working, but actually using their skill set to make an impact, it moves me.
That’s what Andy does with Granite Goodness. By providing real stories happening in our region, he gives me the hope that we are on the right path. That’s why I joined the Optimist Club!
Giddy up.” - February, 2026
Faina Bukher, Founder @ Twinbell Launch Partners (Barrington, NH)🎙️
“My optimism is rooted in the knowledge that people have unlimited potential and that's especially true for youth. Seeing them grow and pay it forward through passion and care across New Hampshire gives me all the hope I need.” - January, 2026
Cecilia Ulibarri, Executive Director @ Positive Street Art (Nashua, NH)
“I joined to be part of a community that uplifts positive, solutions-focused stories while connecting with others who believe in building a stronger, more hopeful New Hampshire.” - April, 2026
Lisa Keslar, Director @ University of NH Entrepreneurship Center
“How can you not support an Optimist Club?
We’re surrounded by negative, fear-driven, anger-filled messaging every day. What we don’t hear enough about is the good, even though it’s happening all around us.
I truly believe goodness creates more goodness. Kindness leads to more kindness. Action sparks more action.
Supporting and celebrating this kind of work is one way we push back against that negativity and bring more light into our communities.
And honestly, that’s something we could all use a lot more of.” - March, 2026
Jennifer Moore (JAM), Founder @ Project Upcycle & Portswap (Portsmouth, NH)🎙️
“Every year I meet a crop of eight emerging designers, not always young, but full of possibility. Six years in, that's an army of people we've helped grow. And they keep coming back. That's what gives me hope." - December, 2025
Kerry Artman, Executive Director @ Carter Community Building Association (Hanover, NH)
“I’m not short on big energy and shining a light on people being great to other people. Or animals. Or the planet. But really it’s the human-to-human kindness that we need more of!!” - March, 2025
Linda Lee, former Chief Marketing Officer @ Stonyfield Organic & the Campbell’s Company (Manchester, NH)
“I’m thankful that a kind friend gifted me a membership. As a NH newbie, I had shared with her my desire to learn about what makes this special place tick and where I can get involved. In watching the Live show, the theme of problem solving, optimism, and working together to unlock a state full of potential really resonated with me.” - December, 2025
Aarron Dupuis, NBRC State Program Manager @ NH BEA (Epping, NH)
“There are so many great things happening in NH and New England. I want to support the efforts of Granite Goodness to shine a light on those stories!” - April, 2026
Jo Porter (Nottingham, NH) 🎙️
“The people of NH care about each other, which makes me optimistic. I think connecting folks and promoting community is what will harness that caring into good!” - April, 2026
Kaarin Milne, Executive Producer @ TEDx Portsmouth (Portsmouth, NH)🎙️
“Optimism is a way of showing up in the world. I joined because I'm an optimist-- and thanks to Andy, we finally have a club! I find that the most meaningful and productive outcomes arise while working with others who believe grand ideas can be brought into being and use their unique talents to do good in the world.” - July, 2026
Frankie Ritter, TEDx Portsmouth 2025 Speaker (Dover, NH)
“I joined because Andy is my friend, but I do actually like the good news.” - August, 2026
Amy DeMeo-Mcfarland, Mom @ Andy’s family (York, ME)
“I joined the Optimists Club because I believe that what Andy is doing is so, so important for all of us to listen to, absorb and learn from - Andy has a joyful and brilliant spirit -GO ANDY!!!!” - December, 2025
Rooster, Dog @ Andy’s house (Tamworth, NH)
“Woof!” - December, 2025
Arnold, Dog @ Andy’s house (Tamworth, NH)
*Sniff* - December, 2025
Email us anytime at hello@granitegoodness.com to have your info removed or updated.
All these people + 2 dogs ; )