Upstate Impact

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Dr. Sam Lombardi, founder of Primal Chiropractic, a family-centered practice focused on nervous system-based chiropractic care and whole-body wellness. Dr. Sam discusses how chiropractic care goes far beyond neck and back pain, and how it can play a role in helping people live healthier, more balanced lives. We also talk specifically about pediatric ch...

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Eric Devendorf , former Syracuse basketball star, professional basketball player, coach, and mentor who continues to train athletes and give back to the community. 🏀 Eric shares his journey from high school basketball to leadership beyond the game, touching on discipline, mentorship, and the importance of investing in people and the community. Learn m...

This week on Upstate Impact, we're sitting down with Ryan Woodruff, CEO at Clear Path for Veterans , to talk about his journey, leadership, and the powerful work being done, including how giving back, service, and the community support can truly change lives. A meaningful conversation worth tuning into! Learn more about Clear Path for Veterans Follow on Instagram or connect on Facebook This ep...

On this episode of Upstate Impact, we sit down with Ashlee Fiorini , founder of Pulse Lagree Fitness , to talk about how discovering Lagree completely changed her path and gave her the confidence to turn a passion into a real business. 💬 Ashlee shares what made her believe in the method enough to bring it to Syracuse, how she's building a studio set to open in early 2026, and how Pulse has al...

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Kelly Landau , the inspiring founder behind Synple, a brand built on making wellness, beauty, and self-care feel approachable, elevated, and, yes, simple. ✨ 💬 Kelly shares tips for small businesses, how she got started, and what really goes on behind the scenes at Synple to make it what it is today. Her small boutique in the Village of Camillus has g...

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Kristen Cuthbert , the visionary designer behind Kristen Cuthbert Design, known for transforming everyday spaces into intentional, elevated, and deeply personal environments. ✨🏡🎨 From home interiors to boutique commercial spaces, she talks about turning inspiration into impact, and how thoughtful design can truly change the way people live, feel, an...

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Bob Shattell , founder of Salt City Prospects, a coach who turned his passion for hockey into a program that’s changing the game for young athletes. 🏒🔥✨ After years behind the bench, Bob saw an opportunity to help players in Central New York gain the exposure, development, and guidance they needed to reach the next level, and today, his program is m...

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with DJ Lenny MvdHitz , the creative force behind some of Central New York’s biggest events! 🎧🔥✨ Jasper shares how his passion for music grew into a full-scale entertainment brand known for its energy, connection, and unforgettable experiences. From local venues to large celebrations, he talks about turning passion into purpose and the power of music to...

This week on Upstate Impact , we sit down with Rob Zaccaria , co-founder of the Noble Cellar and Associate Broker at Acropolis Realty Group ! Rob shares how his Central New York roots and diverse career in real estate and hospitality fuel his passion for creating spaces that bring people together. Don’t miss this interesting conversation about Rob's experiences, building community, and the sto...

This week on Upstate Impact , we sit down with Mark DeAngelis Jr. , co-owner of Mark Antony Homes! Mark shares how his family’s company has been building custom homes in Central New York since 1988—crafting dream homes that blend quality, sustainability, and timeless design. With a reputation for integrity and community commitment, Mark discusses how their team helps families bring their visions t...

This week on Upstate Impact , we sit down with Andrew Lunetta , founder of A Tiny Home for Good! Andrew shares how his vision grew into a nonprofit that builds safe, affordable housing for men and women coming out of homelessness—pairing dignified homes with long-term support to ensure stability. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about compassion, community, and the power of building hope one...

This week on Upstate Impact , we sit down with Pat Fleming , creator of the viral social media series Another Day Another Diner ! Pat shares how his love of diners grew into a storytelling project with over 1.5 million views—spotlighting hidden gems across New York and helping small-town economies thrive. Don’t miss this fun and inspiring conversation about community, storytelling, and the power o...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with the Mayor of Solvay, Derek Baichi. This conversation explores Derek's campaign experience and his passion for building a better community. Learn more about Derek on Facebook Connect with Derek on LinkedIn Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade you...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Tim Beauvais! This conversation explores Tim's love of sports, his intro to mortgage banking, and his desire to help others achieve home ownership. Connect with Tim on ⁠ LinkedIn ⁠! Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Mary M. Thompson! This conversation explores everything you need to know when considering building a home, as well as the exciting changes coming to Central New York! Connect with Mary on LinkedIn ! Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows....

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Anthony Tringale! This conversation explores the Anthony's love for good food, what it takes to run a successful restaurant, and how the Eat Local NY Instagram was created. Check out Eat Local NY on Instagram ! Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgra...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Brandon Triche! This conversation explores Brandon's love of baseketball, his upbringing in the sport, and playing at Syracuse University. Check out ⁠⁠Brandon on Instagram ! Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Ande...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Chris Bily! This conversation explores Chris's love of design, his venture into the restaurant scene, and the behind the scenes in hospitality. Check out ⁠ XO TACO Follow Original Grain Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Ren...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Patrick Rohe! This conversation explores how Patrick got into economics, Rockbridge Investment Management, and what it means to save early. Luke and Patrick also discuss Patrick growing up on a farm, and how your money when invested properly can help you reach your long term goals! Check out Rockbridge Investment Management ! Connect with Patr...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Mike O'Leary! This conversation dives deep into music, and what it means to be a DJ. Luke and Mike discuss their experiences being in command of the aux, and how Mike started the Sunday Cleaning series. Luke and Mike also explore what makes good music great, and so much more! Check out Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeo_lea...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Joe Pompo! This conversation explores the journey of innovation in lacrosse training, focusing on the development of a smart lacrosse ball and the integration of technology in sports. Luke and Joe discuss their experiences with entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset, networking, and the potential economic growth in Syracuse due to technol...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Tracy Dando! Tracy is a multifaceted individual with a passion for mental health advocacy and community support. As the Founder & CEO of Safe Space Organization and co-founder of Root to Rise Retreats, Tracy has dedicated herself to creating safe and empowering spaces for individuals on their journey to recovery and self-discovery. With a...

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with John Mossotti, owner of Elite Personal Fitness, to talk about the importance of showing up, staying consistent, and just getting started. Whether you're new to the gym or looking to reset your routine, John shares practical advice, mindset tips, and real encouragement to help you build long-term success.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Shellie Rizza, owner and founder of SaltCity Holistic Health, to talk about her mission to help Central New Yorkers live healthier, more balanced lives. Shellie shares her approach to wellness, the mindset that drives her work, and practical advice anyone can use to feel their best.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Margaret Dietz, founder and Creative Director of M. Dietz Creative, to talk about all things branding and creativity. Margaret shares how she discovered her passion, what drives her process, and how she finds true joy in helping entrepreneurs discover and own their brand.