Love Living Local 315

What do community, mocktails, and mindfulness have in common? According to Cristi Kaido — everything. In this episode, we sit down with the founder of The Mindful Mixer, Central New York’s first mobile mocktail bar and wellness experience. Cristi shares her journey from growing up in a low-income neighborhood to surviving a life-threatening blood clot, and how those moments sparked a mission to he...

From law offices to barbell racks, short-term rentals to speakeasy renovations, Colin LaReaux is a man who wears a lot of hats—and somehow keeps them all balanced. In this episode, we sit down with Colin to talk about everything from his roots in Utica and his real estate empire to his gym FIT Training, nonprofit work through 315K for the Cure, and the bold vision he has for the community’s future...

This week, we sit down with Kristy Mandour — executive coach, speaker, and host of the Sow to Speak podcast — for a conversation that’s equal parts empowering, hilarious, and deeply honest. Kristy has spent years helping leaders and creatives unlock the confidence to speak clearly, show up authentically, and quiet the noise of their inner critic. We dive into everything from emotional intelligence...

If you’ve ever walked, biked, or even just driven through Utica’s parks and parkways without realizing how special they are… this episode is about to blow your mind. 🧠💥 We sit down with historian and nonprofit founder Phil Bean, who left behind city gridlock and humid summers to return home and reignite a movement. As the co-founder of Olmsted City of Greater Utica, Phil’s passion for preserving...

In this episode, we sit down with Yarden Carroll, the force behind Crowned Creative, a brand strategy studio helping bold thinkers turn brilliance into bankable business. Yarden is a mother, creative powerhouse, systems thinker, and former engineer with four degrees (yes, four!) who brings heart, hustle, and a bit of rebellion to everything she touches. From navigating ADHD and rebuilding after pe...

In this episode, we sit down with Anne Lansing, CEO of Safe Schools Mohawk Valley — an organization changing lives every day across Central New York. From advocating for students dealing with trauma, to building bridges between youth and first responders, Anne’s passion for creating a safer, more supportive school experience is palpable. Her journey has taken her from Lake Tahoe and San Francisco...

What is the Community Foundation and why should you care? In this episode, Scott and Kelly sit down with Nick Grimmer and Kayla Ellis to pull back the curtain on one of the most impactful—and surprisingly misunderstood—organizations in our area. From helping small nonprofits thrive, to facilitating multi-million-dollar giving days like Mohawk Valley Gives, this team is doing way more than you thin...

What if mindfulness wasn’t just a buzzword—but a lifeline? In this episode, we sit down with Mikelle Deck, founder of Aligned Minds Consulting, to talk about mental health, mindfulness, and why your phone might be stressing you out more than you think. From EFT tapping and yoga with teenagers to regulating cortisol and managing social media burnout, Mikelle’s approach to supporting young people is...

Meet Michael Flores — actor, filmmaker, and the creative force behind Dogs on the Sendero, an award-winning indie film that’s turning heads globally… and was filmed right here in Central New York. In this episode, Michael sits down with the team to talk about trading LA for Utica, building a film from scratch with a six-person crew, and how his dog Rosie (yes, the star of the film) was the MVP of...

If you think kids these days just sit around scrolling their phones… let us introduce you to Eli Pasquale . A senior at Mount Markham and living proof that hustle isn’t dead, Eli is a class president, three-sport athlete, junk removal business owner, sneaker reseller, and full-time go-getter. From flipping candy bars in middle school to running Quicks Junk Removal as a solo operation, Eli is stack...

What’s it really like growing up in a family-run car dealership? In this episode, we sit down with sibling duo Carly Steet Mathias and Joe Steet Jr. at Steet Toyota to talk about legacy, leadership, and what it means to carry the torch for a business that’s been a community staple for decades. From early memories cleaning cars to navigating the evolving world of automotive sales, these two have se...

What happens when you mix golf, food, community spirit, inflatable party stations, and a whole lot of heart? You get the East Utica Classic —one of the wildest and most meaningful days of the year in Central New York. In this episode, Keith sits down with Joey Cracchiolo and Mike Peterson , two of the driving forces behind the 15-year tradition that’s become more than just a golf tournament—it’s a...

In this episode, we chat with Vanessa Colangelo , branding expert and owner of Life Well Branded , about helping entrepreneurs cut through the noise and create a brand that actually feels like them . From DIY Canva struggles to imposter syndrome, Vanessa breaks down why branding is so much more than a logo—and how she helps small business owners find their voice, their vision, and the confidence t...

In this episode, we sit down with Jay Groah , a scientist, real estate entrepreneur, and the bold mind behind MyYenta —a tech company changing the way professionals connect with their clients. Jay shares how a chance encounter with a realtor sparked the idea for MyYenta and how he turned a personality-matching concept into a full-blown business (yes, complete with him dressing in drag at conferenc...

In this episode, we step into the ring with Mike Skyros , a professional wrestler from Central NY who’s been grinding it out on the indie scene for over a decade. From dive bar shows with 14 people to selling out 1,000-seat arenas, Skyros shares the highs, lows, and body slams of life chasing the dream. He breaks down what it’s really like traveling town to town, wrestling in VFW halls, and why he...

It’s officially golf week! ⛳ In this special edition episode, the crew breaks down everything you need to know about Putts for a Purpose , happening Friday, June 27 at Pine Hills Golf Course. What started as a bold idea on a 90-day timeline turned into a massive community-powered charity golf outing. From the charities being supported to the sponsors who made it all possible, this episode is pack...

In this episode, we join forces with Christine Spiak and Tricia Sticca , the powerhouse duo behind Success Circle , a growing community for women solopreneurs in the Mohawk Valley who are ready to thrive—not just survive. What started as two coaches looking for office space has turned into a deeply supportive, action-focused movement for women building businesses, finding clarity, and rewriting th...

🌟 Weekend Recap & Local Stops Newport Golf Club • Scenic and well-maintained course with a solid clubhouse and simulator. • Kelly's “best 9 holes ever” story… derailed 4 minutes later. Classic golf humility moment. Lunch at The Alamo (Herkimer) • Standout bar food: fish tacos, chicken & BBQ beef wrap, and top-tier comfort food. Rainy Day Plan: Turning Stone Casino • Family-friendly l...

In this episode, we sit down with David Ocasio Ross —a former teller turned Assistant VP at AmeriCU Credit Union—who shares how a denied car loan at 21 became the wake-up call that launched his career in finance. Now, he’s on a mission to help others level up their money game, understand credit, and navigate the homebuying process with confidence. But David’s story goes far beyond banking. He’s al...

Episode 212: 🌟 Local Eats Recap Golden’s (Genesee St.) • One-man-show Jeff Golden delivers a wild diner-style experience. • No takeout allowed. Homemade food, hilarious signs, massive burgers, garlic parm fries, and tomato soup with grilled cheese. One Genny (New Hartford) • Big menu, patio seating, great for group dining or drinks. • Highlights: steak sandwich, diverse cocktails, and family-frie...

In this episode, we sit down with Joe Palumbo —Central NY native, Ithaca College football champ, black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and co-founder of Kristin’s Fund —to talk about impact, leadership, and using football to change lives. Joe shares the heartbreaking story behind the creation of Kristin’s Fund, and how it’s grown into a powerful movement against domestic violence. Through his A Call...

Episode 210: 🌟 Memorial Day Weekend Recap Coffee at Joe Putrello's (Utica) Switched from Utica Roasting due to long lines. Great vibe, hidden upstairs seating—ideal coffee meeting spot. Lunch at Roosters (Utica) Burger salad success + surprise jalapeño “special” from Javon. Always fire. Literally and figuratively. Dinner at Stone Soup (Herkimer) New upscale dining spot with a courtyard and g...

In this episode, we chop it up with Jimmy Fellone—media strategist by day, food-and-film creative genius by night, and the man behind Takes and Plates. Jimmy’s built a unique platform that pairs recipes with movies and shows (yes, seriously), and he’s got the SEO strategy, chef collabs, and hilarious takes to back it all up. Whether he’s ranking #1 on Google for “hats and broccoli” (don’t ask—just...

Episode 208: 🌟 Weekend Recap Highlights Senior Night Baseball Dinner Held at St. Francis Club in Frankfort. Pizzas from Fratello's—great service, discount pricing for school events. One injury, one flying helmet, one reminder to take a breath. Matteson Hotel Rehearsal dinner buffet with standout prime rib. A hidden gem for bar food and events. Big Devo BBQ Catering Wedding reception with ama...

In this episode, we sit down with Kris Majka, better known as DJ Roscoe Red , the high-energy voice of KISS FM nights and one of the most recognizable personalities in Central New York. From his accidental nickname in an MVCC animation lab to becoming a sought-after wedding DJ, community advocate, and boy band frontman, Roscoe shares his full journey—one dance floor, radio mic, and karaoke night a...