Episode 40

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Published on:

13th Jan 2026

Meet Your Neighbor... Bill Barbuto

In this episode of Meet Your Neighbor, I sit down with William J. Barbuto, a retired Battalion Chief whose life story spans service, sacrifice, and a well-earned new chapter in Arizona.

Bill grew up in the Bronx playing stickball in the streets — a childhood built on grit, community, and looking out for one another. That foundation led him to serve our country as a United States Marine, and later to a long and distinguished career with the New York City Fire Department. Rising through the ranks to Battalion Chief, Bill spent decades answering the call in one of the toughest cities in the world, leading others with experience, humility, and heart.

In our conversation, Bill reflects on growing up in New York, the brotherhood of the Marines and the fire service, and the moments that stay with you long after retirement. He also shares his personal journey west — what drew him to Arizona, what he was searching for in his next chapter, and how he ultimately discovered and chose Westbrook Village as the place to call home.

This episode is a reminder that real estate is about more than houses — it’s about lifestyle, community, and finding the right place for what comes next. Bill’s story captures the spirit of service, transition, and the power of finding a neighborhood that truly feels like home.

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About the Podcast

Meet Your Neighbor
Realtor Steve Podcast
Meet Your Neighbor is a storytelling podcast that brings neighbors together through conversation. Everyone has a story, and this is your chance to share yours—or hear the incredible journeys of those living around you. From career paths and hometown roots to life’s biggest adventures and toughest challenges, each episode dives into the experiences that make every neighbor unique. Whether you’re listening for inspiration, connection, or just a great story, Meet Your Neighbor is where the voices of the community come to life.

About your host

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steve merila

Steve Merila — Host, Meet Your Neighbor
As Realtor Steve, I’ve learned that real estate is about more than houses — it’s about people, stories, and the connections that make a community feel like home. That belief inspired Meet Your Neighbor, a podcast where I sit down with the incredible residents of Westbrook Village to share their journeys, passions, and what brought them here.
Each episode is a genuine, easygoing conversation — like chatting over coffee with a friend — that reminds us how special this community truly is. My goal is simple: to help people connect, feel seen, and celebrate the amazing neighbors who make Westbrook Village one of a kind.