Rochester Living with Mark Siwiec and Corey James Moran

The story of Rochester is far bigger than many people realize. Richard Newman joins us to explain how the Erie Canal, Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and generations of reformers helped shape not only our city, but the future of the United States. We also discuss the American Revolution, the meaning of Independence Day, and why these conversations still matter today.

Few people have shaped Rochester's dining scene quite like Jon Swan. The restaurateur behind eight local concepts shares how he approaches design, hospitality, culture, and creating experiences that keep people coming back. We also discuss why restaurants serve an important role in bringing people together, what makes Rochester unique, and the exciting plans for a boutique hotel on Park Avenue...

Sarah Jesse, Director of the Memorial Art Gallery, joins us to discuss one of the most significant cultural announcements in Rochester in recent memory. After raising a $9 million endowment, MAG is preparing to eliminate admission fees permanently, opening its doors to generations of future visitors. Sarah shares the vision behind the campaign, the challenges of making the case for free admission,...

Few topics affect our community more than education. Kevin McGowan joins us to discuss what he’s seeing firsthand as Superintendent of Brighton Central School District, from student engagement and mental health to the growing role of AI in schools. We also discuss New York’s cell phone ban, post-COVID attendance challenges, graduation trends, and how schools are preparing students for a rapidly ch...

Few events have helped shape Rochester's cultural identity quite like the Rochester International Jazz Festival. Marc Iacona joins us to discuss how the festival has evolved over the past two decades, the partnerships that make it possible, and the vision that continues to drive it forward. Along the way, we cover unforgettable performances, rising stars, community impact, and the role music p...

Mitch Gruber joins us for a wide-ranging discussion on some of Rochester’s biggest challenges and opportunities. From the housing shortage and downtown development to traffic safety, the future of the Public Market, and the Inner Loop North project, Mitch shares his perspective as both a Rochester City Councilmember and longtime community leader at Foodlink. What should Rochester prioritize over t...

Buffalo Bills fans know the pressure is mounting, but according to Jim Aroune, the story of this team is far bigger than wins and losses. The veteran broadcaster joins us to break down the Bills’ evolving identity, the impact of Joe Brady taking over, the future of the defense, and whether Josh Allen can finally lead Buffalo to a Super Bowl. Along the way, Jim shares incredible stories about Bills...

Cornell’s Jewelers has been part of Rochester for more than 100 years, and Michael and Courtney Cornell join us to talk about what it takes to carry that legacy into the next generation. From emotional customer stories and community involvement to the realities of working together as a married couple, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Rochester’s most respected family business...

The Rochester Lilac Festival draws nearly 500,000 people every year, but most don’t see what goes on behind the scenes. Executive Producer Jenny LoMaglio shares how the event comes together, from logistics and budgeting to weather challenges and real-time decision making. The conversation also dives into how the festival is adapting with new experiences, stronger security, and a focus on sustainab...

Josh Miles joins us to share the story behind some of Rochester’s most recognizable restaurants, including Patron Saint, Branca Midtown, Revelry, and more. From his early days in South Carolina to building a hospitality group centered around experience and culture, Josh walks through what it really takes to create something that lasts. We also get into how dining habits have shifted post-COVID, wh...

Elaine Spaull brings decades of leadership, perspective, and passion to a conversation centered on impact, resilience, and the future of Rochester. From her work leading The Center for Youth to launching initiatives that directly support vulnerable populations, Elaine shares what it really takes to create lasting change in a community. Along the way, we discuss philanthropy, the challenges facing...

Dave Dollinger is back on Rochester Living for a wide-ranging discussion on the challenges shaping Rochester’s real estate market. From the ongoing inventory shortage to the emotional realities buyers are facing, this conversation highlights what it takes to navigate today’s environment. We also discuss Rochester’s growing appeal to out-of-town buyers and why the region may be positioned well for...

WHEC meteorologist Stacy Pensgen joins us for an inside look at forecasting in Rochester, from tracking fast-moving lake effect storms to communicating critical weather updates to the community. Stacy shares what it takes to deliver accurate forecasts in one of the most unpredictable regions in the country, along with the pressure and responsibility that comes with it. We also get into how weather...

Sheriff Todd Baxter joins Mark and Corey for a thoughtful discussion about the realities of public safety in Rochester today. The conversation touches on emerging technology, changing expectations in law enforcement, concerns around scams and retail theft, and the importance of maintaining trust between officers and the community. It is an insightful look at what has changed, what still needs atte...

In this episode of Rochester Living, Rev. Jen Crow joins us for a powerful conversation about compassion, community, and how people respond in moments of crisis. From stories of clergy and neighbors standing together to protect vulnerable members of their community, to reflections on fear, courage, and moral leadership, this episode explores what happens when people choose connection over division...

Kate McBride joins the show to talk about the planning, history, and community impact behind the Tops Rochester St. Patrick’s Day Parade. What looks like one afternoon of celebration actually takes a full year of preparation from a dedicated team of volunteers.  Each year, the parade draws tens of thousands of spectators, features more than 100 entries, bands from across New York State, Irish danc...

When Mark Cuddy took the helm at Geva Theatre in 1995, the organization was facing a $1.3 million deficit and a shrinking subscriber base. What followed was nearly three decades of steady leadership, artistic risk, and institutional stability that helped preserve one of Rochester’s cultural jewels. In this episode, Mark opens up about audience habits, post-pandemic recovery, artistic courage, and...

Rochester is now home to one of the nation’s 60 NCI-designated cancer centers. Dr. Jonathan Friedberg explains the eight-year journey, the 1,400-page applications, and why this achievement positions our region as a leader in cancer research and treatment. From immunotherapy and precision medicine to cellular therapies and AI, the future of cancer care is being built right here in Western New York.

What started as one man’s bold idea to preserve historic buildings has grown into the third-largest living history museum in the country. Becky Whaley shares how her grandfather’s vision became Genesee Country Village & Museum and what it means to lead it into its 50th year. Joined by Matt Walls and Jess Duma, we talk maple traditions, 19th century brewing, War of 1812 reenactments, and a powe...

Meghan Mundy’s journey through fashion has taken her from Madison Avenue boutiques to some of Rochester’s most memorable runway shows. She opens up about building Rochester Fashion Week, raising millions for local charities, and why treating people with respect has been the foundation of her success. A thoughtful look at creativity, reinvention, and community impact.

Professor and education leader Shaun Nelms brings decades of experience into a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, systems change, and educational equity. Shaun reflects on his work transforming East High School, why culture must come before metrics, and how leaders can balance urgency with patience. 

Pauly Guglielmo returns for a wide-ranging conversation on entrepreneurship, leadership, and building something that lasts. From scaling Craft Cannery and navigating long-term growth decisions to lessons learned from early career setbacks, Paul shares what it really takes to build a sustainable business. 

Supporting children and families during their most difficult moments takes compassion, coordination, and a deep understanding of the systems involved. Mary Whittier of the Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester joins the show to share how their team works alongside law enforcement, medical professionals, and social services to create safer outcomes for children across our community. We also di...

Nick Mancuso, owner of Elevate Gym, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on fitness, wellness, and what it actually takes to build habits that last. Nick shares why most New Year fitness goals fall apart, how Elevate approaches total wellness beyond the traditional gym model, and why culture and community matter just as much as training. We also get into recovery trends like cold plunges and i...

Congressman Joe Morelle joins Rochester Living for an in-depth conversation on leadership, governing during unprecedented political division, and what his role in Congress means for Rochester. From national policy and election integrity to securing real investment for our region, Joe offers a thoughtful look at how decisions in Washington directly impact our community.