Upstate Impact

Jovan Miller joins the Upstate Impact Podcast to share his journey from growing up in Syracuse as a multi-sport athlete to becoming a two-time All-American, two-time National Champion at Syracuse University, and playing professional lacrosse. We also dive into the evolution of the game, why being a multi-sport athlete still matters, and what today’s players can do to develop their skills, separate...

The best ideas come from recognizing a need and taking action. Amy Nickels shares the story of how Encore Youth Productions started small, continued to grow as demand increased, and is now embarking on an exciting new chapter. Along the way, she’s created so much more than a theater program. Encore has become a place where kids build confidence, discover their potential, step outside their comfort...

Built on consistency. Fueled by creativity. In this episode, Antoine Smith shares the story behind Big Fellas and the mindset that’s helped make it a Syracuse staple. Check out Big Fellas Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We sat down with Dan Tagliamonte, founder of Sea Culture Brand, to talk about the story behind the brand, the process of building something meaningful, and what it takes to turn an idea into a growing business. From entrepreneurship and creativity to staying true to your vision, Dan shares plenty of insights for anyone looking to build something of their own. Discover Sea Culture Brand Follow Upst...

This week, we’re joined by Laiza Semidey, founder of Legendary Soul Studio. Laiza shares her journey as both an entrepreneur and intrapreneur, the purpose that drives her work, and why mentorship can make all the difference in building a meaningful career. We discuss leadership, community impact, creating opportunities for others, the power of relationships, and even a few simple photography tips...

New episode with Eddie Brennan, President/CEO of Beak and Skiff, 1911 established, aryloom and Gen 5 Labs🎙️🍎 With concert season around the corner, apple blossoms in bloom, and a lot of momentum building around ayrloom, it felt like the perfect time to sit down and share the story behind one of Central New York’s most iconic brands and how they continue to evolve. Eddie shares great insight on le...

In this episode of Upstate Impact we are joined by Scott Herron, Executive Director of National Alliance on Mental Illness. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we had a great conversation about the impact NAMI Syracuse is making throughout the community, the resources they provide, and why these conversations are more important than ever. This is a powerful episode for anyone personally aff...

Syracuse Field Hockey Head Coach Lynn Farquhar joins us on Upstate Impact to talk about her journey through the sport, how she became the head coach of one of the top programs in the country, and the philosophy that drives her as a coach and leader. We also dive into what she looks for in players beyond talent, how she builds culture within the program, and the way she works to prepare young women...

Kayleigh Payne from Linear Collective shares how she built a salon that stands out in a crowded industry, the path that led her there even though it wasn’t the one she originally planned, and the lessons she’s learned along the way along with real advice for anyone just getting started. A must listen for anyone building something of their own. Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

This week on Upstate Impact features Jackie Lodge, President and GM of Renewal by Andersen of CNY. From starting in the business at 16 to becoming the youngest GM in Renewal by Andersen history, Jackie shares real stories, leadership lessons, and what it actually takes to earn respect and build a high-performing team. A lot of value in this one if you’re trying to grow in your career or lead at a...

Tori Kroll of Blue Sky Therapy joins Upstate Impact to share her story, break down common misconceptions around therapy, and offer simple, practical tips you can apply in your own life. A real conversation that brings clarity to mental health and what it actually looks like day to day. Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CN...

Alex Gonzalez, owner of Margaritas Mexican Cantina and Inka’s, joins Upstate Impact to share his story and what it really takes to build and run successful restaurants. We talk about how he got his start, how he approaches business day to day, and some valuable insight for anyone looking to get into the restaurant world or build something of their own. A great conversation with a lot of real persp...

Craig Kowadla joins Upstate Impact to share how he helped build Brooklyn Pickle into one of the most well known sandwich brands in Syracuse. From getting started to growing into 8 locations, we get into what’s driven their success and how they’ve kept the quality and experience people keep coming back for. Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We’re joined by Dylan Donahue , founder of Platform Lacrosse, who’s building something special for athletes at every level, from 5 year olds just getting started to high level players and professionals looking to sharpen their game. Dylan shares how he’s created an environment where anyone has the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence, and truly grow within the sport, while staying...

Joe “Coach Joe” Stray joins Upstate Impact for a conversation on his approach to the sport and why boxing can be transformative for both kids and adults. We talk mindset, discipline, confidence, and how the right training environment can shape more than just athletic ability. Whether you’re stepping into a gym for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, Coach Joe shares insight on how bo...

This week on Upstate Impact, we’re joined by John Vavalo , CEO of Central Processors NY. John breaks down how he’s built and scaled multiple brands in a highly regulated manufacturing space, sharing insight on operations, compliance, distribution, and what it takes to grow in one of New York’s fastest-moving industries. If you’re into entrepreneurship and emerging markets, this one’s worth the lis...

🎧🔥 This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with TheKandiGod to talk about his journey into the EDM scene, discovering Kandi culture, and how that community completely changed the way he experiences music. He breaks down what Kandi culture really is, why it’s rooted in connection, positivity, and self-expression, and how he fell in love with the energy behind it. From there, we get into the grin...

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...