New Hampshire Women Magazine - Real Estate Rockstars

Vol. 2 Issue 5 2019

NEW HAMPSHIRE

WO M E N MAGAZINE

celebrating the women of New Hampshire

PROUD TO

SERVE

U.S. Army Captain & New Hampshire Realtor: Lynn Daigle Powers Pg. 10 Sandra Ierardi pg. 5

Meet These Real Estate Rockstars:

Marianna Vis

Kelly Arsenault

Karin Provencher

Melissa Lesniak

pg. 7

pg. 9

Kristyn Nelson pg. 18

pg. 15

pg. 16

Roseyln Langianese pg. 17

Inside: Sports Injuries;

Is Your Child at Risk for Overuse pg. 14 NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 1

THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE:

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

T

his issue is full of powerful and inspiring women!

I’ve loved every minute of learning about their lives, what drives them, and their collective love of helping people find their homes.

Throughout each of these articles, you’ll see the common thread we’ve created to pull expert advice from each inspiring woman that truly crosses over to all businesses and lifestyles.

part of life you’re in, you can draw from the valuable life lessons that local female leaders can provide to help inspire you and keep you focused on your goal - whatever it may be. Thank you for always choosing New Hampshire Women Magazine as your inspiration resource. - Jill jill@nhwomenmagazine.com

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Business Development Executive 603.591.4952 Melissa @nhwomenmagazine.com

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We’re proud of the 112 doctors from across the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health System featured on this year’s New Hampshire Magazine’s Top Doctors list. Thank you for your expert knowledge and compassionate care, and for helping us have more top doctors than any other health system or hospital

CAME

in New Hampshire.

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital, Cheshire Medical Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center, New London Hospital, Visiting Nurse and Hospice for Vermont and New Hampshire, Dartmouth-Hitchcock practice sites at more than 24 locations throughout the region. dartmouth-hitchcock.org 4 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

John Jayne MD Scott Jaynes MD Barbara Jobst MD J. Gilliam Johnston II MD Julie Kim MD PhD Alan Kono MD Stacey Kopp MD Kevin Kwaku MD PhD William Laycock MD Gregory Leather MD Lisa Leinau MD Stephen Liu MD MPH Keith Loud MD MS Harold Manning MD Heather Marks MD M.T. Charisse Marquez MD Keith McAvoy MD Jock McCullough MD Kenneth Meehan MD John Moeschler MD Patrick Morhun MD Srikrishna Nagri MD Catherine Pipas MD Emil Pollak JR. MD Richard Powell MD Anthony Presutti MD Brian Remillard MD William Rigby MD Steven Ringer MD PhD Lara Ronan MD Kari Rosenkranz MD Richard Rothstein MD Nina Sand-Loud MD Andrew Schuman MD Gary Schwartz MD Keisuke Shirai MD MSC Corey Siegel MD MS Mark Silbey MD Nathan Simmons MD Lijun Song MD PhD Andrew Spector MD David Stone MD Arief Suriawinata MD Vijay Thadani MD PhD Andrew Trembley MD Vijaya Upadrasta MD Dale Vidal MD Adam Weinstein MD Wendy Wells MD Loyd West MD Brent White MD Jill Winslow MD Jan Wollack MD PhD Alicia Zbehlik MD

ALONG

PAM

ANDREASON

TOP DOCTORS AND COUNTING

Denise Aaron MD Stacey Abbis MD William Abdu MD MS Daniel Albert MD Bruce Andrus MD MS Bradley Arrick MD PhD Emily Baker MD Perry Ball MD James Bartels MD Richard Barth Jr. MD Joan Crane Barthold MD Barbara Bates MD John Batsis MD David Bauer MD Valerie Bell MD John-Erik Bell MD Elizabeth Bengtson MD Paul Bettinger MD William Bihrle III MD Brian Binczewski MD William Black MD Annika Brown MD Jack Bueno MD Christopher Burns MD Mark Carney MD Samuel Casella MD Mary Chamberlin MD M. Shane Chapman MD Jeffrey Cohen MD Phillip Collins MD Richard Comi MD James DeVries MD Todd Dombrowski MD MS Konstantin Dragnev MD Richard I. Enelow MD Elisabeth Erekson MD MPH David Finley MD Timothy Fisher MD MS Evelyn Fleming MD Naomi Gauthier MD Marc Gautier MD Jennifer Glatz MD Patricia Glowa MD Philip Goodney MD MS Stuart Gordon MD E. Ann Gormley MD Benoit Gosselin MD James Gray MD MS Sherry Guardiano DO Matthew Hand DO Jeffrey Harnsberger MD Cherie Holmes MD MSC Paul Holtzheimer MD Joseph Hou MD Kathyryn Hourdequin MD

MD

Inspiring Women

SANDRA IERARDI: Meeting the Challenge Written by Crystal Ward Kent

S

andra Ierardi of Amherst, New Hampshire became a realtor almost by accident. Wanting to learn more about real estate investing, she took a real estate course, passed the test, and found herself accredited. She was immediately hired

by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Verani Realty, and quickly realized that she had found her passion.

“I love everything about it,” she says. “I love working with clients and helping them realize their real estate goals. I love problem-solving and finding solutions. A lot of time goes into each transaction, and often you are helping people fulfill big dreams, whether it’s their first home, dream home, fix and flip, or retirement home.

I love helping those dreams become reality.”

Although Ierardi loves being a real estate professional, she admits that her career is not without challenges. “The biggest challenge is the ever-changing nature of our business, due to the economy and the real estate market itself,” she explains. “The seasons also play a role, and we often have to educate people about what are realistic home-buying/selling expectations versus what they see on television. Sellers hear that it’s a sellers’ market and expect the market to always be hot when it comes to selling their home; they might not understand that the market fluctuates or that their home isn’t in the ‘right’ hot market. Homes that might have sold in a few days in the spring may take much longer in the summer. We have to be right on top of what’s going

on in our industry and we have to educate the consumer so they know what to expect.”

For those considering a career in the field, Ierardi reminds them that being on call all the time comes with the territory. “I don’t mind it—I’m always available, but depending on your family situation, it might be a challenge. It’s something you need to consider and plan around.”

Ierardi also notes that realtors have to learn a lot of details about the properties they represent. “You can’t know everything if you are representing a lot of homes, but you need to do your homework and learn as much as you can. Homebuyers have lots of questions.”

While most consumers do choose to use a real estate agent, there are those who think that not having an agent will be easier (as in sale by owner FSBO)—an impression

that concerns Ierardi. “The real estate market can be complicated and negotiations may have many layers to them.

There may be covenants on the property or other restrictions that the buyer needs to be aware of. A good realtor knows how to walk the client through all of these details and help them get the deal that’s best for them. They can also troubleshoot things that might make a property less than ideal.

I’m committed to protecting my clients and making sure they come away satisfied.”

When Ierardi isn’t working, she’s busy exploring a number of interests and supporting a range of causes, including Special Olympics, Veterans Count, the American Heart Association and the Humane Society of the United States.

“I’m a high-energy person,” she laughs. “I have an equine home and raise KFPS Friesian horses and English Springer Spaniels.

I also ride a Harley—and I’m

over fifty! I work hard and I play hard. I hope to inspire other women. I especially try to reach out to those women who may feel they are somehow ‘less than’ worthy. My message to them is you are ‘more than’ worthy! Your wings already exist—all you have to do is fly!”

To that end, Ierardi is a top 7 percent producer in the Berkshire Hathaway National Agent Network, owns a digital media marketing agency, is a marketing and business coach, and recently got her MBA, proving that it is never too late. She received an award for having the highest grad student GPA. Ierardi specializes in luxury homes and equine estates, single-family condos and new construction, but she emphasizes that she is “multigenerational savvy.” “I regularly work with young buyers and sellers, as well as Baby Boomers. I’m happy to help anyone.”

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 5

Elliot Hospital: Ask the Pediatric Surgeon

Q.

Dear Dr. Soukup, The pediatrician can’t feel one of the testicles on my newborn son, but they want to wait and see what happens. I’m not sure what this could mean?

-Krysten O.

Dear Krysten,

You are most likely describing something called an “undescended testicle.” This is actually a pretty common finding amongst newborn boys (found in up to 2-3%) and is even more common in premature boys. During development, the testicles start out high inside the abdomen. In the final weeks before birth, the testicles “descend” down the abdomen and find their way into the scrotum. If this has not yet completed by birth for one or both testicles, we call it an undescended testicle. This is usually noticed right away during the baby’s first newborn exam by the pediatrician. About half of the time, the testicle will continue to come down and reach the scrotum on its own. For this reason, we observe babies for the first 6 months and only recommend repair around 6-12 months of age, if it has not come down on its own by then. Prompt repair during infancy is not only important for a good cosmetic result (normal testicle size and location), but also for the best functional outcome so that fertility and hormone production are preserved. There is also a slight association with rare testicular tumors, so it is important for your pediatrician to be able to monitor and examine the testicles easily during routine checkups as they grow.

Repair of an undescended testicle is called an “orchiopexy.” With a brief general anesthesia (or often a spinal anesthesia can be done to avoid the effects of anesthesia during infancy), the testicle is freed up and brought down into the scrotum surgically. A hernia is also commonly found alongside an undescended testicle, and is repaired at the same time. Rarely, if the testicle is still so high in the abdomen that it cannot be felt, we start with a tiny camera (called laparoscopy) to help decide if a more complicated repair (requiring more than one surgery) may be necessary. Thankfully this is much less common. I will sometimes also see older boys who have developed an “acquired” form of undescended testicle which need repair. Overall, boys do very well following orchiopexy and have very good outcomes. But as with everything, regular pediatrician check-ups will still be important as they grow!

Thanks for your question!

Dr. Soukup #askthepediatricsurgeon askthepediatricsurgeon@elliot-hs.org

Elizabeth S. Soukup, M.D., M.M.Sc. Pediatric Surgeon

Dr. Soukup is a Pediatric Surgeon at the Elliot Hospital and has an interest in educating families about pediatric health and wellness. Her mission is to provide expert specialty care for children of all ages in New Hampshire – newborns through teenagers – striving to keep them close to their families and communities. If you would like more information, call 603-663-8393 for an appointment, or visit our website at http://elliothospital.org/website/pediatric-surgery.php. Check out her previous articles at #askthepediatricsurgeon.

Dr. Soukup earned her Bachelor of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, where she received the Outstanding Achievement Award in Medicine, graduating first in her class. She completed her General Surgery training at the Massachusetts General Hospital and her fellowship in Pediatric Surgery at Children’s Hospital Boston. During her time in Boston, she also completed a Masters of Medical Sciences degree in clinical investigation

Please send your questions to: askthepediatricsurgeon@elliot-hs.org

6 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

from Harvard Medical School. She was awarded Elliot Hospital’s “Physician of the year” for 2018. She is board-certified in both Pediatric Surgery and General Surgery. She has specialized training and experience in minimally invasive surgical treatment for babies, children and teenagers. Her practice includes all areas of general pediatric surgery, including common pediatric surgical problems as well as neonatal surgery, congenital anomalies, minimally invasive surgery, and complex thoracic surgical problems.

NHWM | SPOTLIGHT

MARIANNA VIS:

EMBRACING THE GLOBAL FUTURE After ending a chapter in the high-tech world, she pondered her future. Friends recommended real estate, and after a time, she decided it was a perfect blend of all of her experience and passions. “It combined all my skills,” she says.

Written by Crystal Ward Kent

F

or Marianna Vis of VIS Global Realty/Bean Group in Bedford, New Hampshire, being a real estate agent is almost a calling. “I love working with people, land and homes,” she says. “I truly understand the importance of having a home. A home is our rock, our fortress.

If you’ve had a horrible day, it’s the place where you can rest and renew. It’s your part of the universe. Knowing that you have this haven is what allows you to get up and go towards our aspirations every new day.

Everyone needs a home.”

Vis is used to calling many places home. She hails from Australia and previously lived in California before coming to New Hampshire. She fell in love with the Granite State’s landscape and its people’s connection to the natural world. “New Hampshire is very real, not like Los Angeles which is too much about ‘how do I look and what do I own,’” she says. “Still, I did meet great people there and was fortunate to work with some top charities and meet many caring celebrities.”

After ending a chapter in the high-tech world, she pondered her future. Friends recommended real estate, and after a time, she decided it was a perfect blend of all of her experience and passions. “It combined all my skills,” she says. “I did marketing and PR in LA; I have a technology and legal background; I’m outgoing and I love working with people. I love

MARIANNA VIS | Realtor® T EAM L EADER

ASP, CLHMS, CRS, ASSOCIATE BROKER

264 SOUTH RIVER ROAD, BEDFORD, NH 03110 FAX: (603) 216-6303 | OFFICE: (800) 450-7784 X7777

gardening and fixing properties.

Real estate really brought it all together. I think I’ve succeeded because I have all of these skills, but also because I’ve stayed authentic. I put everything I am into my work, and for me, it’s never been about the money. It’s about doing an outstanding job for my clients and fulfilling their purpose. I’ve learned that if you do your job to the best of your ability, and strive for amazing, then success will follow.”

Vis has seen many changes in real estate since she started her career, and is excited about the field’s evolution. “It’s really a global market, in real estate and in other areas,” she explains. “Real estate agents need to be able to reach their buyer or seller globally, because buyers are looking at property worldwide and consumers want you to be able to find the right

buyer wherever they may be, not just locally. Because it’s become a global market, we need to gain a better understanding of other cultures and customs. I’m fortunate because I grew up in a multi-cultural environment.

New Hampshire property is very sought after, because of the lifestyle, property values and the low taxes. Doing business internationally is only going to increase.”

Toward that end, Vis has been building an international team of real estate agents, comprised so far of American colleagues with Korean, Irish and French backgrounds. She is also using her technical skills to expand her reach. “We need to embrace all the tools at our disposal, including Facebook/ Zillow and other services to reach customers. With technology, the world is literally at your

fingertips, and that makes it an exciting time to be in real estate.

We are truly able to serve our clients’ needs anywhere in the world.”

Vis admits that she is a workaholic because she is passionate about what she does.

However, she “disappears for the summer sun” in the winter months, returning to her native Australia to visit family and friends. She is also passionate about learning and fascinated by where technology is taking us.

“The advances are incredible, especially in the medical field,” she enthuses. “I’m a huge supporter of St. Jude’s Hospital for Children and when I see the progress they are making, I’m thrilled. I wish I could live to be a million years old and see all the changes that are coming. I trust that the future will be better than today and I can’t wait to see it!”

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 7

FITNESS | WOMEN’S HEALTH

ANALYSIS PARALYSIS? Written by Andrea Isabelle Lucas Founder, Barre & Soul

TRY THIS TO STOP WASTING TIME AND ENERGY

In Malcolm Gladwell’s famous book, blink, he tells the story of a study conducted back in 1995. A professor named Sheena Iyengar did a study on decision-making. She wanted to see how people responded to having a lot of options versus just a few.

She set up a sample table in an upscale grocery store.

First, they offered a selection of 24 types of jam.

People could stop by, try a few flavors, get a coupon, and then purchase the jam—or not.

Later, Professor Iyengar repeated the same scenario except with 6 types of jam instead of 24.

On average, when confronted with 24 types of jam, only 3% of samplers actually decided to purchase a jar. However, when faced with 6 types of jam, 30% of samplers decided to purchase.

Iyangar’s jam experiment proves something that most of us intuitively know to be true: When you’ve got too many

8 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

options, it can feel really overwhelming. Instead of taking action, you tend to back away and do… nothing.

I experienced this exact type of overwhelm back when, a few years after starting my business, I was able to go house hunting for a new home for my family. At first, I tried to find the perfect house that met all of my specifications— lots of character, cute and funky, the right number of bedrooms, great location, and ideally, a nice backyard. But pretty quickly, I realized, “If I’m trying to meet every single piece of my criteria, I could be searching forever. I don’t want to wait that long.”

In the end, we picked a house that met most (but not all) of our requirements. I

could have spent more time searching, sure, but ultimately I decided, “I don’t want to agonize over this decision anymore. I just want to pick something and be done with it. This house is great. Let’s go with it.” It felt so good to stop comparing options and just choose.

This can apply to so many situations, not just house hunting! Think about all those unanswered emails in your inbox. All those invitations you haven’t responded to yet. That application you’ve been meaning to fill out. That project you might start, or not.

Do yourself a favor and make a decision already. In or out.

Yes or no. You could analyze the options for the rest of your life.

Or you could just decide!

Personally, I would rather spend 5 minutes researching to find something that’s “good enough” rather than spend 5 hours researching so that maybe, possibly I can find something that’s a little bit better. I don’t have that kind of time to spare—and honestly, nobody does. We’ve all got bigger things to do.

Unmade decisions are like weights around your ankles.

They’re dragging you down.

Clear them out of your life, and you’ll have way more time and energy.

Just decide!

NHWM | SPOTLIGHT

KARIN PROVENCHER A LIFETIME IN REAL ESTATE Karin Provencher has spent her entire adult life in real estate, starting her career in 1992. With the encouragement of the owner of the first office she joined, she worked hard and was motivated to succeed.

Written by Mel J

S

he earned Rookie of The Year her first year in the business, from that point on she knew real estate was the path for her. She now runs the successful team of NH Realty Gals at Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan office in Bedford NH. “I love the challenge each transaction brings and enjoy finding the right home and right solution for every client. I’m a bit of a workaholic, and when you follow your passion it’s easy to work and hustle 24/7.” said Provencher.

“I’m an entrepreneur at heart.

That’s why I continue to grow in the industry. Expanding my systems to a team was the next natural step in the growth of my career. I enjoy helping clients buy and sell homes, doing hands on work flipping homes as well as growing a powerful female real estate team and now being a general contractor, building new homes, my commitment is to learn and grow in all aspects of the real estate industry.”

the person representing your client.

When it comes to houses, clients are often taken off guard by my level of knowledge of repairs and construction.”

How have you surprised yourself in the past year?

“I am in awe of the townhomes I am currently building; this has been a path of continued growth. It’s a great feeling of accomplishment fueled by years of banked knowledge and support of a team of subcontractors and good friends.”

What are the differences a female General Contractor can make?

“Putting more thought into the details of function, selection of colors and finishes and having a greater level of

communication to subcontractors.”

What’s a tip for women for their real estate careers?

“You get thrown a lot of curveballs, be flexible, understand that things are not going to go as smooth as you think. You also have to know there is a solution to everything and you’re going to succeed.”

What do you enjoy in your off time?

“Travel, often to Disney it’s a great escape from the grind but also the level of client service and logistics is inspiring.

Additionally, I love traveling overseas I’ve been several places but there is still a long bucket list of places I still want to see. Locally, I love taking my jack Russell out for a bike ride on the local rail trails or 4-wheeling.

Is there a perception out there about what women in real estate are like?

Provencher admits that even today, there are more males in leadership than women. “Women are succeeding, but often put in roles where they are the support rather than leadership roles. Even though there are so many women in real estate the number of women in leadership positions is disproportionate.”

With clients, Provencher states “It comes down to acknowledging that you deserve a seat at the table.

Knowing you absolutely should be

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 9

NHWM COVER WOMAN REALTOR ISSUE

PROUD TO SERVE:

U.S. ARMY CAPTAIN LYNN DAIGLE POWERS Today, Lynn Daigle Powers of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services/Verani Realty in Nashua, New Hampshire is a real estate agent on the rise, but a few short years ago, she was leading a very different life. Here is part of her journey.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JILL SULLIVAN GRUETER

Written by Crystal Ward Kent & Photography by NHWM and Lynn Powers

Huddled up in a sleeping bag in the cold mountains of Afghanistan, U.S. Army Lieutenant Lynn Daigle Powers could only think of the warmth the dawn would bring. It was 2012, and women were not yet allowed to serve in combat roles, but Powers was part of a Cultural Support Team attached to Special Forces units operating in hostile territory. Her role, and that of others chosen for this duty, was to befriend village women and form a social bridge between the military and the locals. Powers had trained hard to get here and was well aware that a lot of eyes were watching how she performed.

As a teenager, Powers knew that she wanted to serve her country, but was also motivated by her family. “My dad taught me that I could do anything I set my mind to, and my mom always supported me.

My older brother, Chris, and I were also always competitive; 10 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

he especially inspired me.

I knew the Army would challenge me in every way possible.”

She enlisted at age 17, going to college, taking Army ROTC, and serving in the Army Reserves all at the same time. After receiving her commission, she embraced Army life, traveling the world and experiencing “so many things that other people never get to do.” When the opportunity came to be part of a Cultural Support Team, Powers jumped at it. “We learned basic Pashtu, but I also had a female interpreter working with me,” she explains.

“Our goal was to build relationships with the villagers

so we were careful of local customs. I always wore a hijab (head covering) along with my uniform and gear as a gesture of respect.”

Powers’ team primarily operated in the mountains, where the days were warm but the nights were bitter cold. “It was also incredibly dry and dusty,” she says. “There was dust on everything and you could never get it all out of your things. When the wind blew, the visibility dropped to zero. When on patrol, you had to stay up close to the guy in front of you because you literally could not see him. It would have been very easy to get separated and lost. It was a challenging environment, but

you adapted.”

After her tour, Powers came away with a good understanding of the Afghani people, and many special memories. “Life there is much slower and simpler; they live on ‘Afghan time,’” she says. “We are all very much driven by the clock and schedule everything, but over there, people just go with the flow. They eat, they go herd the goats or do chores, have dinner, then to bed. Everyone works very hard—even little children are out carrying bundles of sticks—and they are proud of their work. I found them to also be very kind and very social. I was even invited to a wedding while there! The whole experience was unforgettable.”

Contact Lynn Powers at 603.630.0765 (c) or lynn.powers@verani.com

“I knew I had to work harder, and do more than anyone else.”

Forging a New Path Powers was embedded with male soldiers and knew that part of her job was to break down barriers.

“I knew I had to work harder, and do more than anyone else,” she recalls. “I had to prove myself.

For the most part, the men in my team were very professional. If you did your part, you were part of the unit. We took care of each other. Overall, I had a very good experience. But, at that time, there were still Army personnel who had a different mindset. I remember talking to an Infantry Colonel who recognized my achievements, but said that most women couldn’t keep up, couldn’t carry their weight etc. I pointed out that I, and many women like me, routinely carried 65-, 70and 80-pounds of gear, including weapons; that we crossed desserts and hiked mountains, and didn’t ask for help. In fact, every woman chosen for the Cultural Support Team program was unique and powerful.

“I don’t think I changed that officer’s mind,” she continues. “But he did give me a challenge coin as a gesture of respect. I’m proud of whatever part I played in being a

role model. Believing that we could do these things showed others that we could, and since then, more doors have opened for women in the military.”

Powers left the military with a Captain’s rank and after receiving the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge. She married a fellow soldier, Pat, and after they both finished their service obligations, they began house hunting. She had not yet decided on a career, but her husband, noting her enthusiastic attention to detail as they compared homes, suggested real estate. “I thought, ‘He’s right!,’” laughs Powers. “I love working with people; I’m energetic by nature, and I love homes. I also thought this would be a career with flexible hours which would help with family life.”

She became a real estate agent in 2013 and hasn’t looked back. “I love the challenge and the fact that the job is different every day. Becoming an agent is truly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I’ve been fortunate to reach my goals. I set my sights on being Rookie of the Year for Verani and I achieved that. I literally went around knocking on doors. It showed me that I could make this work. Now, I’m building my business and even starting my own team!”

Powers has since received the 2018 Achiever of the Year and the 2018 Leading Edge Society Award.

Powers enjoys helping everyone, but especially likes working with military families in need of housing. “I understand their needs, whether they are being transferred to the area or are retiring from the service,” she says. “I also have experience with Veterans’ Administration loans and can easily walk them through the process. I love helping fellow vets realize their real estate dreams. I also like working with first-time homebuyers and those who are upsizing due to changing lifestyles. It’s exciting to see people realizing their goals.”

When she’s not working, Powers is busy being a mom to Hannah, 3 and Connor, 1, and serves as a guardian ad litem with CASA, a nonprofit that supports abused and neglected children and helps them transition to better lives. “I’m just trying to be the best person I can be,” she says. “I know that I’m lucky to be where I am and I’m very grateful. I don’t take anything for granted!”

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 11

EXPERT BIRTHING INFO PROVIDED BY PARKLAND MEDICAL CENTER

Nitrous Oxide for Pain Relief If you have any questions about the use of Nitrous Oxide, pain management during childbirth, or are looking for a new women’s health provider, contact Dr. Thomas Zarka of Women’s Health Associates of Derry, Parkland Medical Center at (603) 421-2526.

M

any women look to their doctor for guidance about easing the pain of childbirth.

In the United States, the most traditional methods to help manage labor pain in the past few decades include: •

Epidural: Medication is delivered into the lower back, causing some loss of feeling, but allows the mother to continue to bear down and push her baby through the birth canal.

•

Spinal Block: Spinal blocks are administered as a shot into the fluid around the spinal cord. They work quickly to relieve pain, but last only an hour or two. Spinal blocks are often used for Caesarean sections.

•

Systemic Opioids: Systemic opioids (a type of narcotic) are given as a shot or intravenously (IV), and bring about a calming effect.

Local or Regional Anesthesia: Local anesthesia provides pain relief to a small area of the body, like the perineum. Regional anesthesia provides pain relief to a larger area, such as everything below the waist.

One pain relief method that is not common in the United States, but is popular in Europe and other countries with high standards for safe childbirth, is nitrous oxide (N2O). It is usually delivered as 50% nitrous oxide (N2O) mixed with 50% oxygen (O2). In the U.S., nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, typically is associated with dental procedures. Nitrous oxide has become more readily available as a safe and effective method of pain management during labor and delivery.

Pros of Using Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Nitrous oxide works by increasing the amount of endorphins, corticotropins, and dopamine released in the mother’s brain. The result is temporary pain relief and an overall

12 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

including increased difficulty becoming pregnant and increased risk of spontaneous miscarriage.

calming effect. Benefits of using nitrous oxide for pain management include: •

It is less potent than other analgesics like epidural blocks, but more effective than many systemic opioids.

•

It is simple to self-administer and works quickly to provide pain relief. After a brief explanation, the mother can administer N2O to herself through a facemask, which allows her to time the amount and frequency she receives with her contractions.

•

•

N2O can be used during all stages of labor, as well as in some postpartum procedures like perineal repair.

N2O is safe and effective for the mother and her baby. A long track record of safe outcomes for mothers and babies in the United Kingdom and other countries where the use of N2O is prevalent.

•

N2O does not require increased monitoring of the mother or child, and is not associated with an increased risk of complications for either.

•

N2O has no impact on the ability to breastfeed immediately after birth.

•

N2O can be discontinued quickly and easily if another pain relief method is desired. The effects of N2O dissipate within about five minutes after discontinuing its use.

•

N2O is significantly less expensive than other pain relief methods.

Cons of Using Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Some studies raise rare, but serious concerns, about repeated exposure to nitrous oxide, especially for healthcare workers employed in settings without proper ventilation. These concerns include: •

An occupational health risk to female healthcare providers, including nurses and midwives, who may have some adverse effect to their reproductive system,

•

Those with certain medical disorders are at increased risk of adverse effects from exposure to nitrous oxide, including those with vitamin B12 deficiency disorder, pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, Ileal disease, chronic malnutrition due to alcoholism or pregnant women who are strict vegans, chronic N2O drug abusers, and surgical patients who receive high doses of N20 anesthesia (not analgesia) for more than six hours.

To help alleviate the risk of prolonged exposure to N2O, the following precautions can be taken: •

High-risk groups with these medical conditions can be treated with vitamins to lower the risk of adverse effects from N2O exposure.

•

Proper ventilation is key to preventing adverse outcomes and most modern facilities have precautions in place to help monitor and protect their healthcare workers from excess exposure to N2O.

•

Teaching mothers to exhale into the facemask also helps prevent off-gases from entering the surrounding environment.

Conclusion Commonly used in Australia, Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, nitrous oxide is a safe, viable option for pain relief during childbirth. Long-term research supports its effectiveness, safety for the mother and her baby, and unique benefits as an analgesic. Just as important, nitrous oxide empowers mothers by giving them an option to take the edge off of the pain while allowing them to control when and how much of the gas they receive.

In addition, N2O is a lower cost alternative to many pain management options, which may be especially significant to those without insurance or in lower income areas of the country.

The American College of Nurse-Midwives takes the position that, “The experience of labor pain differs among women, and the response to pain is highly individual. Women should have access to a variety of approaches to promote comfort and reduce pain throughout labor...” The use of N2O in labor and delivery departments throughout the United States should be evaluated, and certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives should be trained to administer and oversee the safe use of N2O during labor. While no method is foolproof, nitrous oxide should be made readily available to American women as one option for pain relief during childbirth.

NoPregnancyIsPerfect.com

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NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 13

SPORTS INJURIES: IS YOUR CHILD AT RISK OF OVERUSE?

Keith Loud, MD, MSc

THE NUMBER OF children who play competitive sports year-round continues to grow. As a result, the number of sports-related injuries is also rising. Physicians used to see mostly fractures, broken bones, sprained ankles and other trauma-related injuries. But in recent years, the ratio has shifted with 60 to 70 percent of sports-related injuries caused by repetitive stress.

S

ome common examples are tendinitis and other irritation of the knee; shin splints; and between the ages of 11 and 14, Osgood-Schlatter’s and Sever’s diseases, which occur when there is inflammation around the growth plate areas of the knee and ankle.

In sports medicine clinics, we also see a lot of back and shoulder pain.

hour rule. If the pain hasn’t improved after 36 hours of rest, using ice (20 minutes at a time, at least two to three times a day) and perhaps an over-the-counter antiinflammatory like ibuprofen with parental supervision, then it’s time to call the doctor.

As a parent you can trust your own judgment. You know your child’s personality Our speculation is that more and how they should children are focusing at earlier perform. If your gut is telling ages on only one sport yearyou that something isn’t right, round, or they are trying to do it probably isn’t. As children multiple sports concurrently. get older and gain more This is overstressing their competitive experience, I bodies and leading to more often talk to them about the injuries. In the last 10 to 15 importance of listening to years, there has also been an their bodies, knowing what increased emphasis on games their pain thresholds are and and tournaments, which have recognizing when it’s time to a higher injury rate than slow down or stop. practices.

Preventing Sports Injuries When children show warning Making sure that your child signs of overuse pain, I is getting plenty of sleep, typically recommend a 36proper nutrition and good

14 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

I believe that year-round competition, practices and physical training is what drives overuse injury rates.

Ideally, I recommend that children take off one season from highly competitive training every year. That doesn’t mean that they should be inactive—all children at all ages should be doing at least one hour of moderate to vigorous activity a day just for general health. This physical activity should increase the heart rate and breathing, but not be done to exhaustion—just enough where your child can only speak in short sentences.

This daily hour of exercise doesn’t need to be done all at once; it can be done in several shorter periods such as on the playground, in gym class or during recess. Strength training three times a week— which can be as simple as sit-ups and push-ups—is also a good idea, as is maintaining general overall flexibility with gentle stretching.

During a sport season, it’s important that they have at least one rest day per week.

A good rule of thumb for adolescents is to limit their

sports time to one hour per week per age. So, for example, 11- or 12-year-olds should not train or play sports more than 11 or 12 hours per week in all activities combined. In high school, they can increase that time, but it shouldn’t be more than 15 to 16 hours per week—that’s where the risk of overuse injuries goes up.

Additionally, children should start a new activity gradually, increasing their training volume by no more than 10 percent each week. For example, runners might start running two miles, three times a week, and then they should increase by no more than a quarter mile per day each week. Or if your child is playing a sport where you can count the total time of physical activity and they are participating five hours per week, they should increase their time by half an hour each week.

An excellent resource for parents and children is StopSportsInjuries. org, which includes sportspecific and issue-specific injury prevention tips and other resources for parents, athletes, coaches and health care providers.

Keith Loud, MD, MSc, is the Physicianin-Chief, and an adolescent sports medicine specialist at the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD).

PHOTOGRAPHY: DHMC and Shutterstock

hydration are all important.

Some studies suggest that injury rates in weekend tournaments increase when children get fewer hours of sleep. One myth is that young athletes need high-protein diets. That’s not true; most American diets have more than enough protein for even the most strenuous activities.

SPOTLIGHT COLUMN | NHWM

KELLY ARSENAULT: A GOAL OF GIVING BACK Arsenault enjoys working with all types of clients in helping them find their “forever homes.” “I love what I do,” she says. “This is where I’m meant to be!”

H

ome Economics major, photographer, chiropractic assistant—Kelly Arsenault of Sandown, New Hampshire, has done it all, including fishing for blue fin tuna along the East Coast, but sales was in her blood. “I grew up in the RV business and that was my first job,” she recalls. “Along the way, I did a lot of different jobs, but when I found real estate, it just clicked. I’m not a nine-to-fiver. I need flexibility in my schedule so I can do lots of different things, and this career provides that.”

One of Arsenault’s specialties is working with people with pets, whether it is finding a home that meets the needs of their “furry family,” or selling a home where pets reside. “People like it that I’m a pet person,” she says. “They can see that I love animals and have a way with them. If a home needs to be shown and pets live there, I’ll make sure that the pets are safe and secure while the home is shown. It can be very disruptive to pets if they have to keep being removed from the home every time a buyer wants to visit.

Working with someone like me gives the seller peace of mind.”

Arsenault has a life-long commitment to animal causes; she is the founder of Papillion Rescue of the Northeast (PRONE), and has rescued more than 150 of the breed. Some have come from the southern puppy mills, others from rescue situations nationwide. “Our goal is to help these dogs, get them healthy and ready for adoption, and then find them good, forever homes,”

says Arsenault. “We also help other small breeds, and specialize in dogs weighing between 4 and 11 pounds.

There is a lot of need out there and we do our best to fulfill those needs.”

WORDS: Crystal Ward Kent

She is also proud to be the local founder of Real Estate & Business Social Enterprises Association (REBSEA), a national business group that works with nonprofits to help them achieve their fundraising goals.

“A lot of nonprofits are not aware of this opportunity, so I am eager to spread the word,” says Arsenault.

“We are committed to donating 20 percent of our net commission for each closed transaction directly to a nonprofit organization for every client referred to us. If you are not located in New Hampshire, don’t worry. We can connect you with an agent anywhere in the country who will donate.”

“I know how hard it is for nonprofits to fundraise,” she continues. “Having worked with nonprofits for so many years, I know they can spend 50 percent of their time fundraising—that’s time not spent doing what they need to do.

Thanks to REBSEA, nonprofits can receive a significant benefit without a lot of work. It’s really an incredible opportunity for charities.”

Arsenault enjoys working with all types of clients in helping them find their “forever homes.” “I love what I do,” she says. “This is where I’m meant to be!”

Kelly Arsenault

Your Local Real Estate Expert Serving Pets and People (c) 603.770.6056 (o) 603. 965.2992 Founding Member, REBSEA.org Founder/President, Papillon Rescue of the North East

50 Nashua Road, Suite 111 Londonderry, NH 03053

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 15

NHWM | SPOTLIGHT

MELISSA LESNIAK:

THE ADVISOR

Written by Crystal Ward Kent

W

hile Melissa Lesniak of Dover, New Hampshire, had always been interested in real estate, she initially chose another career path in pharmaceutical sales. The pay was good, and Lesniak had a natural gift for sales, but she knew she wanted a change.

“I wanted more flexibility and to be a business owner,” she says. “I also wanted to be more involved in my community, and I knew that through real estate, I could do that.”

Lesniak, who has been in real estate for 14 years, offers some vital advice for other women considering the field.

“Even if you are just sampling the field and trying it part-time, treat it as a career from day-one,” she says. “It’s the only way to know if this line of work is truly for you.

I was told my first year to go and sell 28 homes and I did!

That showed me that I could do this; that I could set goals and reach them, and that I could make real estate my business.”

Lesniak urges future real estate agents to get involved in their communities and to be well-educated about the region, the business, and the properties they represent.

“You can’t join everything, but you need to get to know the business community. I’m active in the Chamber and Rotary, and founded the Seacoast’s leading business networking group, One More 16 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

Referral. The more you build relationships, the greater your chance for success.”

She offers practical advice as well. “Separate your business finances from your personal ones. Have a good business plan and work with a financial planner. A good business coach or mentor is invaluable at helping you set goals, organize priorities, and also figure out how to make time for you so you avoid burn out. Finally, be proud of being a real estate agent. You provide an important service.

Show people that this matters to you.”

Even though Lesniak has a full schedule, she has always made time for one passion-

ate cause—Big Brothers & Big Sisters. “I’ve been a Big Sister for 21 years!” she exclaims. “I’m now on my third little sister! The kids have to leave the program when they turn age 18, but I am still in touch with my previous littles.

They are in their twenties now and doing well—I’m so proud of them!

“I didn’t have kids,” she continues. “But, I knew how important it could be to a young girl to have someone be a friend and a mentor.

Once I got involved, I just loved it. The relationships are priceless. These kids don’t get to go a lot of places; they don’t get to go out to eat or to the beach, so even little

outings like those are such meaningful experiences for them. We go on mini adventures and also to special activities planned just for Bigs and Littles. I went to my first paint your own pottery night just last week, so I’m learning, too! I would encourage anyone to join this organization.

It does so much good, and it will change your life!”

Lesniak’s firm specializes in first-time home-buyers, waterfront property, single-family homes and helping those who are down-sizing, but she enjoys working with anyone who has a real estate need.

NHWM | SPOTLIGHT

ROSELYN LANGIANESE: TOPS AT TITLE RESEARCH “Buying a home or land is a big investment and often represents a lifelong goal,” she says.

“However, there is nothing to be afraid of. Align yourself with professionals and with people who truly care; they will guide you through the transactions and any legalities that may arise.”

Written by Crystal Ward Kent

R

oseyln Langianese of Summit Title in Bedford, New Hampshire became captivated by the title industry at the age of 19, never dreaming that she would one day be a successful entrepreneur.

“I took a job as a legal secretary for a title company, not even knowing what a title company was,” she laughs.

“But as I became involved in the work, I was intrigued.

I thought this would be a temporary job but instead it led me to my profession. I love the work because it’s challenging and different every day. I’m learning new things all the time and I enjoy

helping my clients.”

Langianese explains that researching a title can be like “putting a puzzle together,” if there is not clear documentation of the past chain of title. “You have to be focused at all times and diligent in tracking down the proper information, as well as work in a timely manner.

Customer service is our strength and the Summit team takes pride in what we do every day.

Having a clear title is essential to property ownership, so we know that our work is important in helping our buyers achieve their home ownership dream.”

Langianse has worked with many women over the years, and offers this advice for those looking to buy real estate, whether it is their first home or a retirement home. “Buying a

home or land is a big investment and often represents a lifelong goal,” she says. “However, there is nothing to be afraid of. Align yourself with professionals and with people who truly care; they will guide you through the transactions and any legalities that may arise.”

Langianese also advises that homebuyers take advantage of home inspection services and make sure that they understand the condition of the property.

They should also make sure that they truly know what they are buying by reviewing the Deed and any information provided by the seller. In addition, she reminds anyone considering home ownership to be sure that they appreciate the responsibilities that this investment involves.

“Remember, homes require maintenance, so it’s important

to plan for that work, both in terms of the labor involved and the financial responsibility.

Transitioning from an apartment to a home is a big adjustment. To all the single women out there considering buying alone, you can do this! Homeownership responsibilities are real, but there will be people to help you along the way. I remember changing my own door locks for the first time.

It is very satisfying when you accomplish something like this on your own, no matter how small the job is.”

When not working, Langianese stays busy with her two children’s activities, and supports several children’s charities, including The Mary & John Elliott Charitable Foundation. “It’s a personal commitment for me,” she says.

“I’ve seen families go through the trauma of having a sick child, and I want to do all I can to help these children receive the treatment and services they need. I love that this local foundation supports families in my community.”

Summit Title handles both commercial and residential real estate and escrow services in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and southern Maine.

To all the single women out there considering buying alone, you can do this!

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 17

EDUCATION 5 Ways Early Learning Programs Help Pave the Path to College Written by Angela Hehir, Director of Early Childhood Education at World Academy

One of the most rewarding things to hear is how much our school community still means to our graduates, and how well anchored they feel knowing there is a network of educators, neighbors, friends and family there to support them during the challenges of higher education.

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SummerQuest Day Camp offers convenient, oneweek sessions that are jam-packed with fun, adventure, new friendships and unique experiences.

One of the most rewarding things to hear is how much our school community still means to our graduates, and how well anchored they feel knowing there is a network of educators, neighbors, friends and family there to support them during the challenges of higher education.

Camps available for students entering K-Grade 5 Academic Enrichment Programs for students entering Grades 4-8

603.888.1982 WorldAcademyNH.com/SummerCamp 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062

WHEN IT COMES TO paving the path to college, few benefits are more apparent for students than those gained during those early years of education and growth.

That’s why we place such high value in early learning for each of our students. The result: our students and alumni are able to move from our halls to success in high school and college with confidence and determination.

Setting Standards to Strive Toward Whether it’s challenging students to discover the power of technology or encouraging them to engage with their community, setting clear goals, and driving students to reach those goals using their own skills and responsibility, helps students know what to aim for, as well as how to best get there.

Nurturing All Aspects of Individual Student Development 18 | NHWOMENMAGAZINE.COM

Helping our students discover, build, and act on those key skills of self-determination and motivation are absolutely critical toward paving that path to college later on down the road.

Much in the same way that the challenges that await the next generation of leaders may vary from person to person, so too do the challenges and opportunities available to today’s learners vary from person to person.

By building individualized learning plans for each student, encouraging personal development and exploration throughout the learning process and maintaining low teacher-to-student ratios, our staff at World Academy remains keenly in tune with individual student needs, challenges, and opportunities for success.

Building Critical Skills from The Very Start to Form The “Whole Person” According to the National Education Association, the benefits of early childhood education can have potent, lasting effects that may help students succeed in

measurable ways throughout their education and later careers.

That’s why we focus our efforts so intently on building key skills right from the start, beginning with Infant and Pre-K learning and continuing through our Elementary and Middle School classes, which prioritize foundational problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and creativity skills that will help students better understand their world from our classroom and straight through college.

Teaching Students How to Drive their own Successes In today’s highly-competitive college admissions atmosphere, it is critical that students are able to not only target their own goals, but that they also have the skills and resources needed to drive toward those goals on their own.

For that reason, we place a strong emphasis on the value of community to students’ overall growth and success as they mature and proceed through their careers. It is this connection to their peers and mentors that offers stability during tough times, as well as the chance to return home and share what they have learned later on down the road.

Our Goal: Paving the Way Forward for our Students At World Academy, we know the value of early learning because we see it in action every single day and have for over 40 years. Whether it’s watching our students set new standards for success during their time in our classrooms or seeing the continued success of our alumni after graduation and beyond, the importance of robust, early learning shows its value each and every year.

NHWM | SPOTLIGHT

KRISTYN NELSON: THE HOMETOWN SPECIALIST For Kristyn Nelson of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Verani Realty in Bedford, New Hampshire, being a real estate agent is all about the people. “I love being in the position to help people,” she explains.

“

I find that being an agent is a bit like being a therapist, in that you coach people to guide them to where they want to be. I’m also able to help people think outside the box. Sometimes a situation will seem impossible and I see people ready to give up on their dreams. However, I’ve learned that often the impossible IS possible.

I love figuring out a way to make things work. Being a real estate agent is not just about the transaction; it’s about that personal partnership.”

Nelson also loves the professional freedom that being a real estate agent brings, the flexibility is important, as she is the mom of two. “It’s my business, and I’m very passionate about it—it doesn’t feel like work; I’m always excited to head to the office.

I love the fact that there’s no ceiling— that I can work as much or as little as

Written by Crystal Ward Kent

I want and see the results accordingly. I can build the business however I want. And, I love feeling the satisfaction of seeing my hard work pay off.

Seeing happy clients and doing well is very rewarding.”

While home sales are up in general, Nelson is seeing some definite trends.

We are seeing more multi-generational homes, either with in-law apartments, or smaller cottages for grandparents built on the grounds. With so many couples working, it’s becoming a good option. The grandparents get a comfortable place to live and the parents get help with child care.”

The other trend Nelson has noticed is home-buyers wanting places a little further out in the country.

Many buyers are still seeking properties near urban centers, but there are those looking for a bit more land so they can have chickens

and bigger vegetable gardens. “Chickens are very popular!” she laughs.

Nelson, who has a marketing background, is eager to be part of the future of real estate and was excited to be chosen for Berkshire Hathaway’s REThink Council, a group of 15 agents selected nationwide to brainstorm about how their field can evolve for the future. “We meet four times a year and everyone shares their strategies and ideas. We problem-solve, discuss marketing, and ask questions. We are all under forty, and we are all top producers in our locations, so there is a lot of incredible information being shared.”

Nelson loves working with all buyers and sellers, whether the goal is a small condo, new construction, or a million-dollar home.

She also especially enjoys working within her hometown of Bedford. “I’m like Google,” she laughs.

“If people want to know anything, from vendors to services and multiple options with each, I can tell them. I love promoting what Bedford has to offer.”

NH WOMEN MAGAZINE 19

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