The demands of running a small business can often feel relentless, leading to ingrained stress responses and reactive behaviors. But what if you could literally "rewire" your brain to better handle these pressures, leading to a more structured and successful business? I assure you this isn't just wishful thinking; it's neuroscience.
Our brains are remarkably adaptable and when we utilize that adaptability we tend to thrive. But, what does adaptability really mean, what is a good measure for thriving and how do you get to the point where you can take advantage of the adaptability and begin thriving?
Well, first lets define what I mean by adaptability or better put psychological flexibility from a therapist’s perspective. Psychological flexibility is made up of two parts. The first part is simply being present to where you are and open to new situations and engaged in what you are doing. In other words, focus on what you are doing with the ability to be open to new experiences and strategies when they present themselves. The second part is the ability to control or modulate your behaviors/responses to match your goals and underlying values.  
Now, what does thriving really mean and look like? Well, generally in the mental and physical health arena thriving refers to a multidimensional state of positive health and well-being, characterized by optimal physical, mental, and social functioning, and the ability to achieve one’s full potential within one’s environment. In other words, the ability to balance life’s stressors and demands while living a life focused on one’s values and still being able to meet basic physical and psychological needs. 
Now, let's examine what it would look like if you were to bring these two concepts together in your life and be living as a thriving individual. Well, the first thing is that you would have clearly defined values that guide you in your day to day life and your goals would be sort of waypoints in your journey to living your values. Next, you would set boundaries (professional, personal, physical, intellectual and emotional) that are in alignment with your values and serve as a guide towards achieving your many goals (personal, family, financial, etc). Then, you would set daily, weekly, monthly and maybe even annual routines that would be in service of meeting your goals. 
To quote a conversation that I generally have with most of my clients when I go over these principles:
Client: ‘It sounds so easy when you put it like that!’
Me: ‘True, but the concept of building a rocket to transport a group of astronauts to land on Mars sounds easy on paper, as well’. 
The concept outlined does sound easy ‘on paper’ but it takes; hard work, identifying with the reason why you are doing the work and a healthy dose of self-empathy for when you find yourself off track. Remember, you didn’t get to the point where you had enough expertise in your trade to support you venturing out on your own overnight. It took years of hard work, focus and learning from piles of mistakes to get to this point of being able to open your own business. Through consistent practice, you can build the new neural pathways that foster resilience, creativity, and focused decision-making. This process, known as neuroplasticity, is directly influenced by our daily habits – both mental and physical. 
Some examples of simple daily rituals can make a profound difference. Beginning your day with five minutes of deep breathing can calm your nervous system. Taking a mid-day walk along the East Bay Bike Path can break mental blocks and spark new ideas. Establishing consistent sleep patterns can dramatically improve your cognitive function and emotional regulation. These aren't just "feel-good" activities; they are intentional actions that restructure your internal landscape, enabling you to approach your business with greater clarity, less reactivity, and more innovative solutions. Let's embrace habits that empower both your mind and your enterprise. Contact [email protected] or call 401-203-5779 to learn more.  


401-203-5779
Licensed Psychotherapist and Trainer

When you think about "physical fitness," you might picture intense gym sessions or rigorous training. But for small business owners, physical activity is far more than just about looking good or fitting into those jeans. It's a powerful, often overlooked, tool for business success. As someone who's worked in physical therapy, as a fitness trainer and mental health for nearly 20 years, I understand the profound connection between our physical and mental state and our ability to perform under pressure.

​Running a business demands energy, focus, and resilience. Long hours, critical decisions, and unexpected hurdles can drain even the most dedicated owner. Regular physical activity, however, can be a natural antidote. It reduces stress hormones, improves cognitive function, enhances mood, and boosts overall energy levels. That afternoon slump that often hits after a busy morning? A quick walk or a few stretches can often banish it, leaving you refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your day with renewed vigor. Additionally, have you ever noticed a time when you were struggling for hours, days or longer with a problem you seemingly could not solve and then had one of those “Ah Ha!” moments and the solution came when you were doing something completely unrelated to the problem? That's because when you are engaging your brain in different ways outside the constraints of the problem at hand - your mind becomes more creative and sees things from a broader perspective versus the hyper focused point of view that you were visualizing the problem from before. 

Remember, it’s not about becoming an Olympic athlete; it’s about training the body and mind to be a bit more flexible physically and psychologically. As humans, we need to challenge ourselves and experience the world around us from as many different perspectives as possible - again both physically and mentally. This flexibility allows entrepreneurs to meet their consumers' needs in new and innovative ways differentiating themselves from their competitors. Thomas Edison put it perfectly when he quipped, ‘The chief function of the body is to carry the brain around.’ Edison was renowned for his ability to see problems differently and more creatively. 

Additionally, physically challenging yourself as well as mentally challenging yourself is important for building a sense of increased physical vitality and mental well-being. It allows us to focus on hard things that are rewarding and help to unhook the mind from the struggles, ruminations and annoyances of life that get in the way so many times of being present and enjoying the simple and most important things around us - family, friends and community. 
So, could you take a walk through the charming streets of Warren instead of another coffee break? Could you schedule a short, invigorating exercise session before your workday begins or join a local business owners running club (yes, this is shameless plug for the Wednesday morning running club that starts at the Barrington YMCA at 0630am)? These small commitments to your physical well-being translate directly into sharper thinking, better problem-solving, and increased stamina for your business. Let's make physical fitness a non-negotiable part of your entrepreneurial toolkit.

David Poland
https://www.bhpfitness.com/​
401-203-5779
Licensed Psychotherapist and Trainer​

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 Centreville Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Peluso as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO).
In this key leadership role, Peluso will oversee the Bank’s Information Technology and Information Security departments, positioning Centreville Bank for continued growth, expansion, and enhancing both the employee and customer experience.
“Centreville Bank is proud to have Jim join our growing team as our new Chief Information Officer, marking an important step forward in our technology strategy,” said Jill DeShiro, EVP, CFO-COO at Centreville Bank. “His leadership will be pivotal in aligning our IT capabilities with our business objectives and strengthening the infrastructure that supports our long-term growth.”
Peluso brings with him an extensive background in managing complex, large-scale technology operations. Most recently, he served as Head of Global Core Platform Services at FM, Inc. where he led data centers, cloud, and network operations across 43 countries, supporting over 7,500 employees and contractors worldwide.
Before that, he held the role of Director of Digital Engineering & Global Infrastructure at Hasbro, where he spent eight years driving innovation and modernization across the company’s digital platforms.
Beyond his technical acumen, Peluso is recognized as a strategic thinker, people leader, and mentor. He is part of the Leadership Rhode Island Phi II 2025 cohort and serves as an adjunct professor at Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI). Peluso previously sat on the advisory board at New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) and mentored through Year Up Providence.
He previously served as Vice President of the Barrington Little League board. Peluso is also a coach for youth sports in town including flag football, softball, and basketball.
 
About Centreville Bank
Founded in 1828 and headquartered in West Warwick, Rhode Island, Centreville Bank is a full-service mutual bank with over $2.8 billion in assets and 23 locations throughout Rhode Island and eastern Connecticut. Centreville understands the unique financial needs of individuals, families and businesses and offers a wide range of personal banking and commercial banking products and services including checking accounts, savings accounts, CDs, money market accounts, mortgages, business loans and more. Centreville is committed to its employees and the communities it serves, always striving to help people make progress and achieve their financial goals. That is progress on purpose. Visit centrevillebank.com, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, or come into a branch or office to learn more.

 This location will be Centreville Bank’s second full-service branch in the East Bay.
 Warren, R.I. (June 25, 2025) – Centreville Bank is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new, full-service branch in Warren, Rhode Island, located at 521 Main Street. The branch will officially open to the public on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, marking another step in the bank’s expansion and commitment to serving the East Bay community.
 This new location builds on Centreville Bank’s current presence in Warren through its Loan Production Office (LPO), which is located at 951 Main Street and continues to support the area's lending needs.
 The decision to open a full-service branch follows the closure of another financial institution at this location earlier this year.
 “When another bank closed its doors in mid-March, it left a real void in the Warren community’s options for financial service providers,” said Lee Merrill, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer at Centreville Bank. “We’re proud to step in with a strong team and a community-first approach to meet those needs and serve both residents and businesses.”
 Centreville’s new Warren team is comprised of seasoned professionals with deep roots in the East Bay banking community: 

• Nancy Coelho, Branch Manager
• Paul Sousa, VP, Commercial Lender (on-site)
• Gina Helm, VP, Head of Residential Lending
• Brenden Vadeboncoeur and Shaelyn Ferreira, Bankers
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Together, they bring years of trusted experience and a shared commitment to exceptional customer service.
 “Our Warren team is made up of banking professionals who understand this community and are passionate about delivering personal, knowledgeable service,” said Harold M. Horvat, President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Centreville Bank. “They reflect the values we stand for at Centreville Bank--local decision-making, best-in-class customer service, and a long-term commitment to helping people make progress toward achieving their financial goals.”
The new branch at 521 Main Street will offer a full range of personal and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, residential and commercial lending, online and mobile banking, an ITM/ATM and more.
For more information, please visit www.centrevillebank.com.
 About Centreville Bank
Founded in 1828 and headquartered in West Warwick, Rhode Island, Centreville Bank is a full-service mutual bank with over $2.8 billion in assets and 22 locations throughout Rhode Island and eastern Connecticut. Centreville understands the unique financial needs of individuals, families and businesses and offers a wide range of personal banking and commercial banking products and services including checking accounts, savings accounts, CDs, money market accounts, mortgages, business loans and more. Centreville is committed to its employees and the communities it serves, always striving to help people make progress and achieve their financial goals. That is progress on purpose. Visit centrevillebank.com, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, or come into a branch or office to learn more.
 

 Washington Trust has been recognized as Rhode Island’s Best-In-State Bank for 2025 by Forbes, marking the seventh consecutive year the bank has appeared on the list, and the third consecutive year they have been ranked #1.
The annual Forbes Best-In-State Banks list, compiled in partnership with market research firm Statista, evaluates financial Institutions based on customer satisfaction, trust, fees, digital services, and financial advice.
“We are deeply honored to be named Rhode Island’s Best-In-State Bank again this year,” said Edward O. “Ned” Handy III, Washington Trust Chairman and CEO. “This recognition reflects the Bank’s two and a quarter centuries of unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional banking experiences, fostering trust, and supporting the financial wellbeing of our customers and communities. By combining innovative technology for convenience and accessibility, with the personalized service of our dedicated team, we strive to meet the evolving needs of those we serve. We thank our employees for their hard work, and our customers for their continued loyalty that has endured for 225 years.”
Forbes’ 2025 ranking methodology included surveys of more than 26,000 U.S. consumers, assessing banks on criteria such as customer service, trustworthiness, accessibility, and transparency. Washington Trust’s consistent dedication to personalized service, innovative digital solutions, and community engagement has solidified its position as a leader in Rhode Island’s banking sector.
ABOUT WASHINGTON TRUST®
Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is recognized as the oldest community bank in the nation, the largest state-chartered bank headquartered in Rhode Island and one of the Northeast's premier financial services companies. Washington Trust values its role as a community bank and is committed to helping the people, businesses, and organizations of New England improve their financial lives. The Bank offers a wide range of commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking and wealth management services through its offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts and a full suite of convenient digital tools. Washington Trust is a member of the FDIC and an equal housing lender. Washington Trust is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., a publicly-owned holding company which trades on NASDAQ: WASH. For more information, visit the Bank's website at www.washtrust.com or the Corporation's website at ir.washtrust.com.

 ​We at Frank Smith Insurance and Real Estate are proud to welcome Kendra Hoesterey as the newest member of our growing team. Kendra joins us as a Personal Lines Producer, bringing with her two years of valuable experience in the insurance industry. Kendra is passionate about building lasting relationships with her clients and is committed to helping individuals and families navigate the often complex world of insurance. She believes in a client-first approach, providing thoughtful guidance and clear education to ensure her clients feel confident in their coverage choices. Her dedication to service and her enthusiasm for connecting with people make her a great fit for our team and the communities we serve. We’re excited for our clients to get to know Kendra and experience the care and professionalism she brings to her role. "We're thrilled to welcome Kendra to our small yet mighty growing team here at Frank Smith Insurance and Real Estate,” stated Jennifer Preston, FSI President. “With her enthusiasm for client service and commitment to building meaningful relationships, I have no doubt she'll be a welcome addition to our mission of putting clients first." Please join us in welcoming Kendra Hoesterey to Frank Smith Insurance and Real Estate!  ​https://www.franksmithinc.com/

  The Washington Trust Company (“Washington Trust”) recently announced that it has made charitable contributions and in-kind donations to 40 local nonprofit organizations to support their outreach efforts this holiday season.
 
“Washington Trust truly values our local communities and is committed to supporting organizations that provide basic needs and family services to our neighbors in need,” said Edward O. “Ned” Handy III, Washington Trust Chairman & CEO. “Especially during the season of giving, our entire team is proud to support the organizations that are the cornerstones of our communities as they work to ensure no one goes hungry, and everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of the season.”


Ahead of the holidays, the Washington Trust Charitable Foundation made grants totaling $18,000 to assist hunger relief agencies located throughout Rhode Island to support food distribution efforts.
 
The $1,000 grants were made to the following 18 organizations:
Barrington, RI: TAP-IN
Block Island, RI: Helping Hands of Block Island
Coventry, RI; Coventry Community Food Bank
Cranston, RI: Comprehensive Community Action Program
Cumberland, RI: Northern Rhode Island Food Pantry
East Greenwich, RI: East Greenwich Interfaith Food Cupboard
Hope Valley, RI: RI Center Assisting Those in Need
Johnston, RI: Tri-County Community Action Agency
North Kingstown, RI: North Kingstown Food Pantry
North Providence, RI: Saint Anthony Kitchen Ministry
Peace Dale, RI: Jonnycake Center of Peace Dale
Providence, RI: Better Lives Rhode Island and Federal Hill House
Rumford, RI: Good Neighbors Community Kitchen and Food Pantry
Smithfield, RI: Saint Vincent De Paul Food Pantry
Warwick, RI: City of Warwick Department of Human Services
Westerly, RI: W.A.R.M. Center and the Jonnycake Center of Westerly


Additionally, employees at each Washington Trust branch location, as well as back-office departments, worked with a local organization to support their holiday gift giving programs. In total, the team supported 22 different nonprofits and community efforts, providing toys, gifts, gift cards and more to help fill family wish lists.


Partner organizations included:
Block Island, RI: The Mary D Fund
Coventry, RI: Coventry Housing Authority
Cranston, RI: Comprehensive Community Action Program
East Providence, RI: St. Francis Xavier Church, East Bay Community Action
North Kingstown, RI: Beechwood Community Center
North Providence, RI: Moms of Marieville
Providence, RI: Adoption RI, Children’s Friend, Jesucristo Fuente de Vida Church, Mount Hope Community Center, and Sojourner House
Richmond, RI: Matthew’s Wish
Smithfield, RI: St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry
South Kingstown, RI: Jonnycake Center of Peace Dale
Wakefield, RI: Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County
Warwick, RI: Tides Family Services
Westerly, RI: W.A.R.M. Center, Pleasant Street Baptist Church, The Frank Olean Center, and the Jonnycake Center of Westerly
Woonsocket, RI: Woonsocket Adopt A Family, Inc.
 
 
ABOUT WASHINGTON TRUST®
Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is recognized as the oldest community bank in the nation, the largest state-chartered bank headquartered in Rhode Island, and one of the Northeast's premier financial services companies. Washington Trust values its role as a community bank and is committed to helping the people, businesses, and organizations of New England improve their financial lives. The Bank offers a wide range of commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking and wealth management services through its offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts and a full suite of convenient digital tools. Washington Trust is a member of the FDIC and an equal housing lender. Washington Trust is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., a publicly-owned holding company which trades on NASDAQ: WASH. For more information, visit the Bank's website at www.washtrust.com or the Corporation's website at ir.washtrust.com.

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