Empire State Entrepreneurs: NY Business Law

In this episode of the Empire State Entrepreneurs and New York Business Law Podcast, host David Pfalzgraf sits down with Jack O'Donnell, founder and managing partner of O'Donnell & Associates, a Buffalo-based government relations and lobbying firm with offices in Albany, Rochester, and New York City. Jack shares a candid look at his journey from Buffalo public schools to the halls of Albany, the deals that shaped his career, and why he believes Buffalo's best days may still be ahead.Recorded live at Incept's podcast studio in Buffalo, NY.Show NotesBuffalo Roots & Family LegacyJack grew up in Buffalo attending Buffalo Public Schools through eighth grade before going on to St. Joe's High School. He comes from a family deeply embedded in public service. His father retired as a New York State Supreme Court Justice, and his mother blazed a trail as the first woman to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York, later working in the Obama administration.Early Career: From Campaign Trail to the StatehouseAfter graduating from Canisius College in 1996 - the same year as the presidential election - Jack passed up a planned career with U.S. Immigration Services and instead rode to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, handed out paper resumes on the convention floor, and landed a job on the Clinton-Gore reelection campaign. His direct supervisor was Bill de Blasio; his deputy was Karen Hinton (now Karen Hinton Keo, current Secretary to the Governor of New York).From there, Jack spent 18 months driving across New York State promoting a then-little-known congressman named Chuck Schumer. When Schumer won his Senate seat, Jack made the deliberate choice to stay in Buffalo rather than follow the campaign to Washington - a decision he credits as formative.Over the next decade, Jack worked as a political operative and campaign strategist for a who's-who of New York State Democratic leadership, including Eliot Spitzer, Hillary Clinton, Kathy Hochul, and Andrew Cuomo, earning him the unofficial title of "Upstate Sherpa."Health Challenges & ReinventionIn the midst of his political career, Jack faced a serious health crisis that required an organ transplant, an experience that nearly cost him his life. The ordeal introduced him to Upstate New York Transplant, where he formed meaningful relationships, including with David's late mother, and eventually redirected his path back to law school. He spent seven years completing his JD, graduating in 2010 after petitioning to return following his illness.From Politics to LobbyingJack registered as a lobbyist for the first time in 2008, initially resistant to the idea. He eventually recognized that lobbying offered the parts of government work he found most energizing, brokering large, impactful projects, without the door-knocking and constituent service elements he found less fulfilling.Starting O'Donnell & Associates...Right Before COVIDIn November 2019, Jack left his position at an established lobbying firm to launch O'Donnell & Associates. Four months later, COVID hit. He was frank about the fear of running a business with no formal training, but credits the crisis with proving the value of his relationships. Clients and officials needed informed navigators more than ever.Current Work & ClientsToday, O'Donnell & Associates works across healthcare, economic development, finance, and cultural institutions. Current and recent engagements include:Alstom (train manufacturer, Hornell, NY): Helped secure a nearly $3 billion Amtrak contract for next-generation trains, leveraging relationships with both Governor Cuomo and Senator Schumer - two leaders famously at odds. Those trains now run between Boston and New York City. Most recently, helped Alstom secure a $3 billion MTA subway car contract.M&T Bank: Facilitating strategic introductions and relationship-building as M&T expands into the Bronx, connecting the bank with key city and state officials.Buffalo Zoo, Albright-Knox Art Gallery (AKG), Niagara Aquarium: Advocating for cultural institutions Jack views as critical economic drivers for Western New York.Downtown Buffalo Development: Working with a developer on office-to-residential conversion legislation, sponsored by Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, modeled on programs that have succeeded in New York City.The Monday Morning MemoO'Donnell & Associates produces a weekly publication recapping key developments in Albany, Washington, and local government. The memo has won awards and is read widely among elected officials and policy leaders across the state.AI, Advocacy & the New York RAISE ActJack shared his firm's work on the New York RAISE Act, which requires large AI companies (those spending millions developing frontier models) to maintain documented safety plans and bear legal responsibility for their systems. He pushed back on what he characterized as misleading opposition from major tech companies, calling the law a reasonable guardrail; not a threat to startups or innovators.Jack also touched on how digital tools, including geofenced advertising targeting state capitol visitors, have become part of sophisticated advocacy campaigns, while cautioning that relationships and personal judgment remain irreplaceable, especially in bill drafting where changing two words can determine whether a company thrives or is regulated out of existence.Buffalo's FutureJack is optimistic about Buffalo's trajectory, pointing to:A new mayor representing the city's first true "change election" since 1977Strong leadership at the city's cultural institutionsLegislative momentum behind downtown residential conversion projectsGrowing statewide recognition of Buffalo's potential from Albany and NYCFun FactsJack published a book, Bitten by the Tiger, about William Sulzer - the only New York Governor ever to be impeached - available on Amazon.In 1996, Jack qualified for the U.S. Olympic sailing trials, though the team did not ultimately compete.Key Highlights"We can get government moving faster, but that's not the same as moving fast." Jack's honest take on the pace of public sector change.The Alstom Deal: Navigating a near-$3 billion federal contract while managing a famously hostile relationship between two of New York's most powerful political figures.Staying in Buffalo: Turning down a path to Washington to invest in a community many of his peers were leaving.Organ Transplant: A life-altering health crisis that reshaped his personal and professional path.AI in Government: Firsthand account of educating legislators on frontier AI models and the RAISE Act."Intelligence guided by experience": The firm's philosophy, and how it plays out in weekly intelligence briefings and client strategy.Key TakeawaysRelationships are the foundation of advocacy. Knowing the players (and being trusted by them) is what separates effective advocates ...

Building Buffalo's Startup Ecosystem From Open Coffee Clubs to ACV Auctions with Nick Barone & Dan MagnuszewskiIn this episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs, David Pfalzgraf sits down with two of the driving forces behind Buffalo's thriving tech and startup scene - Nick Barone and Dan Magnuszewski, co-founders of ACV Auctions and partners at Radial Ventures.Nick and Dan trace their paths from early grassroots "Open Coffee Club" meetups in 2009 to co-founding ACV Auctions, the digital automotive auction platform that went public in March 2021 after just six years and explosive 350% year-over-year growth. Along the way, they share candid stories about selling a house with a one-year-old at home, landing their first investors, and scaling from three people to over 2,000 employees.But this episode is about more than one company's success story. Nick and Dan dig into what happens when a community decides to turn a happy accident into a repeatable system. They discuss the 43 North Foundation - built in part from the economic windfall of ACV's exit - and its four pillars: talent development, corporate connectivity, brand building, and the venture studio model powering Radial Ventures. Their message is clear: Buffalo doesn't need Silicon Valley. It needs intentional collaboration, no-ego partnerships, and a long-term commitment to building the ecosystem from the ground up.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or simply someone who cares about the future of business in Western New York, this conversation is full of hard-won lessons and real optimism about what's being built right here in Buffalo.• Nick Barone and Dan Magnuszewski share how Buffalo's startup scene grew from informal Twitter meetups and coffee shop gatherings in   2009 into a structured, thriving tech ecosystem• The origin story of ACV Auctions — how a chance conversation led to co-founding one of Buffalo's biggest startup success stories,   culminating in a 2021 IPO• What it really takes to go all-in on a startup: selling your house, ditching a steady income, and betting on yourself with a one-year-old at home• How ACV scaled from 3 employees to over 2,000, achieving 350% year-over-year growth — and what that kind of hypergrowth actually feels   like from the inside• The founding and vision of the 43 North Foundation, and how the ACV exit created resources to invest back into Buffalo's next generation of.   entrepreneurs• A breakdown of 43 North's four pillars: talent development, corporate connectivity, storytelling/brand building, and the venture studio model• Inside Radial Ventures — a hands-on venture studio that lets founders keep their day jobs while an experienced team builds the company   alongside them• Why Nick and Dan believe collaboration, not competition, is the key to sustaining a healthy startup ecosystem• The importance of corporate engagement in the startup world — and why Buffalo's established companies have a critical role to play in what   comes next• Practical wisdom for first-time founders: why there's no parachute, how to learn from failure, and why showing up to the community early   matters more than you think

As Season Two comes to a close, Empire State Entrepreneurs takes a step back to reflect on the conversations, insights, and moments that defined the past nine episodes.This special best-of episode brings together standout clips, along with several never-before-heard moments, from business owners, creatives, technologists, and community leaders who shared candid perspectives on building, protecting, and growing businesses in New York State.From the evolving role of AI in traditionally conservative professions, to the parallels between entrepreneurship and filmmaking, to hard-earned lessons about passion, purpose, and sustainability, these conversations highlight the realities behind success—not just the headlines.Whether you’ve followed the podcast all season or you’re joining for the first time, this episode offers a thoughtful look back at the ideas that resonated most and the lessons worth revisiting as we look ahead.Episode Highlights & Key ThemesThe Practical Reality of AI in the Legal ProfessionGuests discuss how AI is already reshaping legal work—not by replacing judgment, but by automating time-intensive tasks like citation checks, legal research validation, and brief review. The takeaway: meaningful AI adoption happens in small, deliberate steps, not by handing over full decision-making.Old Technology, New AudiencesFrom vinyl records to high-end audio systems, what was once considered legacy technology is finding new life with younger generations. The tactile, intentional experience of music - paired with the accessibility of streaming - has become a bridge between generations and a reminder that innovation doesn’t always mean abandoning the past.Entrepreneurship Through a Creative LensFilmmaking is framed as entrepreneurship in its purest form: assembling teams, managing capital, competing across markets, and building something larger than yourself. The conversation highlights Buffalo’s growing creative economy and the persistence required to build sustainable ecosystems outside traditional hubs.The Power of a Clear Creative FoundationA decades-old creative brief remains the guiding force behind award-winning work, underscoring the value of clarity, discipline, and consistency. Tools and trends change, but a strong foundation continues to drive results.Innovation That Creates Jobs and CommunitiesFrom AI-driven construction platforms to solar technology and semiconductor innovation, guests reflect on how venture-backed ideas scale into real-world impact; creating jobs, attracting talent, and strengthening regional economies.Arts, Education, and Lasting ImpactArts education programs demonstrate how confidence, communication, and collaboration can transform young people in a matter of weeks. These experiences reinforce the role of business and community leaders in creating access and opportunity.Passion Isn’t Enough...And That’s OkayOne of the season’s most reflective moments challenges the “follow your passion” narrative. Sustainable success lives at the intersection of passion, competence, and compensation—an insight especially relevant for founders navigating career pivots and new ventures.

In this episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs, host David Rupp sits down with longtime friend and renowned immigration attorney Michael Serotte, founding partner of Serotte Law. Known for his deep expertise in business immigration and an entrepreneurial approach to law, Michael shares the remarkable story behind building one of the country’s most respected immigration practices—right from Buffalo, NY.Michael’s path wasn’t traditional. From accounting to entrepreneurship to mountaineering, his story is driven by curiosity, resilience, and the willingness to bet on himself. He talks candidly about getting fired from early legal jobs, discovering immigration law almost by accident, the pivotal case that shaped his future, and how a single client relationship ultimately opened doors to Silicon Valley’s startup ecosystem.Michael and David also explore:How immigration law became a strategic business opportunityThe origins of Serotte Law and its rise as a go-to firm for venture-backed foundersThe impact of AI on the legal profession—and why hospitality still winsThe importance of strategic partners, including his longtime colleague Rita RaghavanThe power of relationships and serendipity in entrepreneurshipMichael’s passion for physical fitness, mountaineering, and personal challengeThis is an inspiring, funny, and insightful conversation about risk-taking, reinvention, and building a business with intention—with plenty of Buffalo flavor, sports talk, and entrepreneurial wisdom along the way.Episode HighlightsMichael’s Early Life & Buffalo RootsComes from a three-generation legal family, though immigration wasn’t initially part of the plan.Shares a poignant memory from 1984 with his father—the lesson to “look up” and appreciate the beauty in life.Learned humility and perspective through difficult early-career experiences.Career Detours and Hard LessonsFired from multiple early jobs, often for refusing to follow “the way things have always been done.”Spent time in accounting, real estate development, and a fascinating but short-lived consulting role in Washington, DC.Waiting tables in DC became one of his most formative professional experiences.Discovering Immigration LawReturned to Buffalo in 1992 to work with his father’s former partners in an immigration-only practice.Quickly saw the unique business model of immigration law—particularly its flat-fee structure and opportunities for process optimization.Realized that immigration law offered the perfect blend of entrepreneurial clients, federal practice freedom, and process-driven efficiency.A Precedent Case That Changed EverythingHelped a client’s developmentally disabled sister obtain citizenship through a creative, unconventional approach.The case later became federal precedent—cementing Michael’s reputation for innovative problem-solving.The Breakthrough: Silicon ValleyLeft his firm in 1997 to start Serotte Law, beginning with five clients in a Kenmore basement.A long-term client, Lev, built and sold a telecom startup for over $1B—opening doors for Michael in the Bay Area.Represented Stanford founders, joined the StartX ecosystem, and became a go-to immigration counsel for venture-backed startups.Building a Modern Immigration FirmGrew Serotte Law to 30+ employees, serving clients nationwide.Credits much of the firm’s success to partner Rita Raghavan and her operational leadership.Believes immigration law is increasingly shaped by:AI-driven process improvementsCompetition based on service, not priceDeep client relationships and responsivenessThe importance of hospitality in legal practiceAI, the Future of Law & Empowering Underserved ClientsAI raises the baseline, enabling weaker lawyers to perform better—but also pushing great lawyers to differentiate through service.Sees an opportunity to democratize high-quality immigration guidance with lower-cost, tech-enabled solutions.Life Beyond Law: Fitness, Friendship & MountainsShares stories of his mountaineering adventures, including summiting Mount Rainier.Training now to climb Pico de Orizaba (18,500 ft) in Mexico.Believes physical challenge fuels mental clarity, discipline, and resilience.What’s NextRemains energized by business challenges, problem-solving, and serving the next generation of immigrant entrepreneurs.Envisions a future where immigration knowledge becomes more accessible and more affordable through technology.

Tricia Barrett is the Chief Executive Officer at Crowley Webb and Praxis. Recognized in Business First’s Power 200 (ranked as high as #62), she serves on boards including United Way of Buffalo & Erie County, Buffalo Prep, and the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. A Buffalo native, she studied communications at John Carroll University, and once completed a semester at sea on a 134-foot sailboat.Highlights includeBuffalo beginnings & education: Elmwood Franklin, Buffalo Seminary, Williamsville South; communications at John Carroll; life-changing Semester at Sea.Early career in advertising: Client service at The Wolf Group (Cleveland & Rochester), working on Dirt Devil, Wegmans, and tourism.Coming home to Buffalo: Joining Crowley Webb; learning from agency legends and a culture built on loyalty and longevity.Acquiring Praxis: Why Crowley Webb took the “unusual” leap to acquire a client (2010), Tricia’s shift into operations, and the art + science + skill model that followed.From creative boutique to analytics leader: Building a 10-person analytics team; proving and predicting performance rather than “throwing it at the wall.”Leading through COVID: Stepping up as a people-first leader; Praxis’s role in recruiting for Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine trial; rapid, responsible growth.AI & the next 40 years: Embracing AI across departments, repurposing talent, hiring for new roles (yes, even TikTok specialists), and keeping an independent edge.Brand experiences & content: Event activations like Highmark’s Bills fan storytelling trailer, capturing 800+ fan stories.Service & community: Social justice focus; being intentional with board service and time outside work.Personal notes: Travel, time on the water, hockey-aunt life, learning golf...and a two truths gem: fly-fishing with President Carter.Key TakeawaysPurposeful > reactive: Strategic pauses and intentional choices lead to durable growth.Sometimes tried-and-true wins: Refining proven processes can outperform constant reinvention.Greatest risk can be not taking one: Crowley Webb’s acquisition of Praxis reshaped the agency.Art + science drives results: Creativity lands harder when paired with analytics and proof.Leaders serve first: Tricia’s mantra (“Serve”) guided COVID-era leadership and culture.Careers aren’t ladders anymore: Think jungle gym - lateral moves, new skills, evolving roles.Embrace AI thoughtfully: Use it to elevate thinkers, efficiency, and client outcomes—not replace judgment.

In this episode of the Empire State Entrepreneurs: New York Business Law Podcast, host David Pfalzgraf welcomes longtime friend and community leader John Osberg - entrepreneur, endurance athlete, growth strategist, and current Director of Development & Partnerships for the PGA of America – Western New York Section.John’s story is anything but linear. From unexpected opportunities in Buffalo’s early startup scene to founding his own consulting firm and now advancing golf’s role in community engagement, John shares the lessons of grit, resilience, and open-mindedness that shaped his path.The conversation touches on:Lessons learned from working in Buffalo startups before the rise of 43North.How LinkedIn became a cornerstone for John’s professional and community connections, well before it was mainstream.His work with the PGA of America to expand access, support veterans, and diversify the game of golf.The role of physical and mental health in entrepreneurship, including his journey from unhealthy habits to ultra-endurance athlete.Why “training for life” and setting intentional goals are essential for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone striving for impact.Episode HighlightsFrom Jaguar to Startup Office: John recalls the day he showed up to his first tech interview in 2012—only to find the “headquarters” was in an apartment. That moment launched a five-year crash course in grit and resilience.Ahead of the Curve on LinkedIn: Encouraged by his father in 2008, John built a professional brand early on LinkedIn that continues to shape his career opportunities and impact.Golf as a Platform for Good: In his current PGA role, John is leading initiatives that support youth development, diversify the sport, and, through PGA HOPE, literally save veterans’ lives.Training for Life: After hitting rock bottom in 2019, John cut out alcohol, rebuilt his health, and discovered ultra-endurance sports as a path to physical strength, mental clarity, and community leadership.Mind Over Miles: John joined Buffalo’s 24-hour run/walk for mental health awareness—logging 70 miles and showing the next generation of leaders what it means to go all in.Entrepreneurial Mindsets: Resilience, open-mindedness, and “GSD” (get stuff done) remain the core principles that have carried John across industries and into his dream role.

In this episode, David sits down with Sam Marrazzo, Chief Innovation Officer at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC) and adjunct professor at UB School of Management.They cover Sam’s remarkable career journey, from immigrating from Calabria, serving in the U.S. Navy, and leading R&D at Praxair, to becoming a champion of Buffalo’s startup and innovation community. Sam highlights real-world examples of startups that thrived with BNMC support, the qualities he looks for in entrepreneurs, and how he helps business leaders embrace technology and AI.Listeners will also hear how UB’s student projects are transforming local companies, why data governance is the foundation for any AI initiative, and what businesses should do now to prepare for the future.From Italy to Buffalo: Sam shares his journey as an Italian immigrant, his U.S. Navy service working on F-18 electronics, and how curiosity for technology shaped his career.Corporate to Community: After years at Praxair leading R&D projects, Sam shifted focus to Buffalo’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through the BNMC.Innovation in Healthcare: Example of helping Dr. Rifkin launch a disruptive sleep apnea platform, moving care from clinics to patients’ homes.Startup Stories: How BNMC guided companies like Sam Starks’ Green Project from concept to acquisition in just a few years.What Makes Entrepreneurs Successful: Grit, domain expertise, and the ability to stay “in the batter’s box” despite setbacks.AI & the Future of Business: Sam discusses his AI-focused teaching at UB, real-world projects with businesses, and why data governance is the critical first step for companies exploring AI.Partnership with UB Students: Unique capstone program where graduate students work directly with companies (law firms, manufacturers, tech startups) to deliver practical AI and innovation projects.Caution & Opportunity with AI: The tools are powerful, but companies must prepare by consolidating data, governing access, and aligning strategy to avoid falling behind.Personal Note: Sam shares his recent cycling adventure up the Stelvio Pass in Italy, starting in sunshine and ending in a snowstorm at nearly 10,000 feet.

The city of Buffalo and the surrounding region have experienced a renaissance over the last 10-15 years, and in that time, 43North has played a huge role in attracting businesses to the area. On this episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs, host Dave Pfalzgraf connects with Colleen Heidinger and Pete Grum to discuss the competition, the organization's impact, and how Buffalo has become a place that entrepreneurs flourish.Episode Highlights0:01:30 – David Pfalzgraf welcomes listeners to Year 2 of the podcast and introduces guests Colleen Heidinger and Pete Grum.0:05:10 – Pete Grum reflects on his path to Buffalo, career at Rand Capital, and transition into impact investing at Advantage Capital.0:15:40 – Investing in people: Pete shares the backstory of investing in early internet ventures, including Check.com and ACV Auctions.0:20:10 – Colleen details her move from LA and DreamWorks Animation back to Buffalo, inspired by the Buffalo Billion and a desire to give back.0:26:30 – Founding days of 43North: chaos, creativity, and creating a startup accelerator without a playbook.0:34:00 – Changing Buffalo’s mindset: from exporting talent to cultivating belief in the city’s entrepreneurial potential.0:39:25 – Colleen shares how she unexpectedly became President of 43North in 2020, just weeks before the pandemic hit.0:45:15 – Scaling the mission: from national press and ACV to deeper local impact through grants, programs, and career fairs.0:49:45 – The story of Top Seedz: a 43North-backed business that’s changing lives and hiring refugees in Buffalo.0:54:00 – Pete introduces the 43North Foundation: how it's using proceeds from successful exits to reinvest in the ecosystem.1:00:30 – What’s ahead in 2025: a competitive application cycle, five $1 million investments, and continued national attention.1:05:50 – The call to action: how Buffalo’s business leaders can support startups through investment, mentorship, and corporate partnerships.1:13:10 – Final thoughts: legacy, mindset, and how 43North is rewriting Buffalo’s story, one startup at a time.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host David Pfalzgraf welcomes his lifelong friend, creative force, and Buffalo native Pete McGennis. From childhood memories in Buffalo to the creation of Harley-Davidson’s only co-branded product, and now seven feature films and counting, Pete’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, storytelling, and following your joy.They reflect on Pete’s early entrepreneurial adventures, including building a national brand (Cool Sack), and dive deep into his evolution as a filmmaker and creative entrepreneur. Along the way, Pete shares life lessons on adversity, creative risk, community-building, and why time - and joy - are the most valuable currencies.Episode Highlights: Pete and David's lifelong friendship, growing up in Buffalo How childhood creativity and sports laid the foundation for storytelling From college theater to summers in LA, and a return to Buffalo with new perspective The birth of “Cool Sack,”  transforming a family idea into a Harley-Davidson success story Lessons from 14 years working with Harley, manufacturing locally, and facing a corporate pivot How losing the Harley contract sparked Pete’s full leap into filmmaking The bold decision to shoot a feature film in New Orleans and the fear, risk, and joy that came with it Telling Buffalo’s stories: Crystal Beach, Queen City, and Bubble Girl Why storytelling is a service, and how Pete helps businesses share their purpose through music and film Sneak peek into his new film St. Peter Street, a Buffalo–New Orleans musical comedy Reflections on creative purpose, time as currency, and building a life centered on joy Pete’s next dream: a solo album, new films, and helping others find purpose through storyKey Takeaways:Adversity often hides opportunity. Pete’s biggest creative breakthroughs came after career challenges.Joy is the compass. Whether creating for film, business, or music, Pete’s north star is always joy and connection.Time is currency. Choose wisely where your energy goes - it’s your greatest creative asset.Buffalo is a muse. From storytelling to location filming, the Queen City is deeply embedded in Pete’s work and identity.

Brian Higgins has been a mainstay in Buffalo for decades. Even in his time in state and federal government, he was fighting to give Western New York the best opportunities to thrive. Now, as CEO and president of Shea's Performing Arts Center, the former congressperson comes back home to serve the community through the arts. Listen as Brian takes Dave from his humble beginnings in South Buffalo all the way to the nation's capital, and back again.Brian Higgins' Early Life and EducationBorn and raised in South Buffalo, the second youngest of five.Father: Union bricklayer and Buffalo City Council member (1969–1978); Mother: Grammar school teacher.Earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Buffalo State College.Attended Harvard University for a Master’s in Administration and Policy in 1996—funded by a fellowship endowed by Bob Wilmers (former M&T Bank CEO) after Higgins initially deferred due to cost.Political Career HighlightsElected to Buffalo City Council at age 25, then to the New York State Assembly, and later to the U.S. House of Representatives (2004–2023).Focused on transforming Buffalo rather than seeking national impact.Major legislative victory: $300 million settlement from the New York Power Authority used to redevelop Buffalo’s waterfront—leveraged during the relicensing of the Niagara Power Project.Advocated for and helped shape federal and state historic tax credits, instrumental in Buffalo’s downtown renaissance. Leadership at Shea’s Performing Arts CenterTook over as CEO in 2023, seeing Shea’s as both a cultural treasure and an economic catalyst for downtown Buffalo.Announced an ambitious $60 million capital improvement plan, including:$15M expansion to improve traffic flow and facilitiesRenovations at 710 Main and Shea’s Smith TheatersDevelopment of artist lofts and digital signage across the theater districtStressed the economic multiplier effect of shows like The Lion King, which brought 68,000 attendees and $19 million in local spending.Revitalizing Downtown BuffaloEmphasized Shea’s role in revitalizing the theater district as a vibrant, 24/7 destination.Working with local businesses, architects, and government to blend art, culture, and urban development.Plans include improved streetscapes, lighting, signage, and pedestrian engagement—drawing parallels to Times Square. Reflections on Congress and Transition to Local LeadershipCandid critique of Congressional dysfunction, citing gridlock, government shutdown threats, and wasted potential.Felt constrained as one of 435 in Congress; sought a more direct and tangible local impact.Now finds fulfillment in community-based leadership, where incremental progress is more achievable and visible.Personal Values and Community VisionStrong ties to Buffalo’s neighborhoods and appreciation for its historical assets.Advocates for inclusive economic growth across all Buffalo communities.Inspired by Michael Shea’s original mission—creating accessible entertainment for working people.Describes himself as more introverted than most expect and passionate about world history and service.Teased a possible future book based on reflections from visits to nearly 100 countries during his congressional service.Call to Action for the Business CommunityEncourages business leaders to engage with Shea’s capital campaign.Opportunities include naming rights and other contributions to support Shea’s as a pillar of Buffalo’s cultural and economic life.Reinforces that Shea’s is community-owned and its stewardship is a collective responsibility.

The science of sound is a unique and interesting area of study. Ultimately, we can attribute everything we hear to vibration. But not every vibration is a good vibration, and that's where Mike Latvis of Harmonic Resolution Systems comes in. From humble beginnings in aerospace to turning his passion for a pristine listening experience into a career, Mike takes Dave through his journey in music and science. Highlights of the episode include:From Basement Hobbyist to Global Audio BrandMike shares how his teenage obsession with music and turntables led him to engineer audio systems in his parents’ house — literally hanging gear from the ceiling to avoid skips. His journey from those early DIY setups to founding Harmonic Resolution Systems is a masterclass in passion-meets-preparation.Engineering Meets EntrepreneurshipA lifelong mechanical engineer, Mike discusses how 15+ years of experience in vibration and noise control across the nuclear and aerospace industries laid the technical groundwork for HRS. His decision to start his company was fueled not just by opportunity but a desire for long-term control over his career and legacy.Five Years, Two Jobs, One DreamListeners will be inspired by Mike’s grit: for five years, he ran HRS on nights and weekends while still working full-time. He shares the realities of launching a high-end product, convincing his wife, children, and customers one step at a time that his vision could succeed.Finding the Aha MomentThe big break came when Mike recognized a market gap — high-end audio furniture wasn't engineered to match the sophistication of modern audio components. That insight became the foundation of HRS, blending aerospace-grade isolation systems with the art of sound.A Global Brand, Built in BuffaloToday, HRS is distributed in over 40 countries and used in elite systems around the world. From collaborations with Fender and Mobile Fidelity, to systems costing well into six figures, Mike walks us through HRS’s ascent as a globally recognized name in audio excellence.Powered by PeopleMike emphasizes the critical role of people — from engineers to lawyers and vendors — in growing a company. He reflects on the ecosystem of support in Western New York, crediting partners like Rupp Pfalzgraf for playing pivotal roles in HRS’s survival and success.Giving Back: From Grief to LegacyIn an emotional turn, Mike recounts how the loss of his wife Jodi to ovarian cancer spurred the creation of the Jodi V. Lava Ovarian Cancer Research Fund at Roswell Park. Now, he’s using HRS’s global reach to host music-driven fundraising events — most recently with the Lumineers in Brooklyn — to support cancer research and community initiatives.What’s Next for HRS?Even as a leader in his industry, Mike refuses to rest. New product launches, constant R&D, and a mission to give back are at the core of what keeps HRS evolving. “If you don’t replace yourself,” he says, “someone else will.”

Tony Rupp may be a man who requires no introduction, as the founding partner of the law firm Rupp Pfalzgraf, LLC. Tony joins host Dave Pfalzgraf and longtime friend and partner in tech, Steve Poland for a forward-thinking episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs. Topics on this episode include the many uses of AI in the practice of law, the origins of Go To Verdict, and solid advice for entrepreneurs and startups. Origin Stories:Steve and Tony reflect on growing up in the Buffalo area and their early interests in programming and entrepreneurship.How a mutual appreciation for technology sparked their collaboration.The Founding of Rupp Pfalzgraf:Tony’s leap from big law to co-founding an agile, tech-forward firm.Using emerging tech to reimagine law firm operations and client service.Go To Verdict: Revolutionizing Jury SelectionThe creation of a proprietary jury selection software using public records and automation.Real-time, AI-assisted juror profiling that gives attorneys a competitive edge.Automated reporting features that save time and impress clients.Oxford Knox & Judgment Recovery Innovation:A tech solution for identifying collectible judgments across NYS using scraped public data.How the system uses Go To Verdict's backend to assess debtor asset information at scale.Lead Gen: Tech-Enabled Legal MarketingLeveraging public databases to identify legal needs and ethically reach potential clients.How Rupp Pfalzgraf personalizes marketing through automation and compliance.The Power and Future of AI in Law:Why Tony and Steve believe AI will transform the legal profession—not replace it.Practical ways the firm already integrates AI into research, document drafting, and case prep.Advice for Entrepreneurs:“Sell it before you build it” – Steve’s lean startup insight.Tony's tip: Always ask whether AI can help before starting a task.What’s Next?30+ tech projects in development, from document automation to AI-driven legal research.A glimpse at future plans to modernize and scale law through innovation.Personal Nuggets:Steve’s passion for fantasy football and tech experimentation.Tony once watched a George Foreman fight with a young Senator Joe Biden at Cornell!

There is something to be said about accountability, a support network, and discipline. For Nick Ennis and Max Montante, it's given them the opportunity to give back with Mind Over Foundation. In this episode, host Dave Pfalzgraf speaks with Nick and Max about their dedication to mental wellness, and how their life experiences set the groundwork for their cause.Highlights include: -  Growing up in WNY- Lifelong friendships- Joining the family business- Perpetuate the family legacy- Learning to share insights- Dealing with intense tragedy- Finding your passion- The significance of family support- A unique way to network- Building toward big goals- Developing a community- Leaning into your support network- The power of journaling- Deciding to make a difference- The Mind Over journey- Sharing the tools learned in past experiences- The impact of shared motivation- Perspective alters understanding- Reach out on the Mind Over website- Connecting on social media- The evolution of the significance of addressing mental wellness- Turning personal needs into motivation to help others- The small things that make a big impact- Consistency as an indicator of success- Progress takes patience- Always wear a helmet

Dr. Leonard Kaplan has spent decades studying wellness and has built a practice that incorporates integrative, regenerative, and functional medicine into the treatment of the patients at OWM Integrative Wellness. Host David Pfalzgraf and Dr. Kaplan explore a life dedicated to developing an understanding of the human body and its systems, the future of medicine, and more. Highlights include:- Following in dad's footsteps- Having an early idea of what the future might hold- Choosing osteopathy over traditional medicine- Why Chicago?- Military service and medicine- Deciding between Walter Reed and Madigan- Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine- Falling in love with Buffalo- Struggling to balance insurance reimbursement processes and patient care- The significance of forming a relationship with patients- Removing insurance as an obstacle to care- Becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable- Manifesting (AKA: Making it Happen)- Starting an integrative medicine practice- Developing a passion for serving like-minded people- The independent spirit and building equity- Having faith in the practice- Finding the right space- The intrinsic drive to never quit- Stewarding Buffalo's history- Cultivating resources for continued learning- A healing environment to heal a body- Preparing against disease - Obtaining superior outcomes through cooperative care- Providing techniques that aid everyone from young athletes to the elderly- The Recovery Lounge, and what the future holds- Not accepting the no- Finding pure joy outdoors

If you are in Buffalo and you like craft beer and great food, chances are you've been to a Schutte Hospitality restaurant. Managing Creekview, Britesmith Brewing, Oliver's, and Marcato is no easy task, but David Schutte's labors of love have been providing Western New York with excellent experiences all over the region. Learn more about David and the path to hospitality on this episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs: NY Business Law. Highlights include:- Getting an early start in hospitality- Experiencing NYC- The Rainbow Room- Learning a true commitment to quality and hospitality- Michelin stars- Coming home to build a life- Opening Babaloo, preceding Fat Bob's- Turning the experience into ownership of Creekview- Putting in the hours- Preserving quality by owning processes from start to finish- Purchasing Buffalo's Top Restaurant- The importance of the chef team and their creativity- Breaking into the brewery sector- Adding a new location for Britesmith on Niagara Street- Marrying the best parts of each location- Building an exemplary executive team- Experiencing everything travel has to offer

In a landscape dominated by chain grocery stores, Stuart Green operates Braymiller Market, which proudly provides fresh produce and tantalizing prepared foods for the southtowns, and as of 2020, downtown Buffalo. In Episode 8 of the Empire State Entrepreneurs podcast, we learn Stuart's story. Highlights include:- A photographic beginning- An unlikely first career- An unlikely second career- Purchasing a local legacy- Going from a corporate industry to owning a small business- The Undercover Boss theory- Learning to work with someone who is rooted in your new acquisition- Early changes- The wholistic approach to providing food to a region- Finding creative ways to save and cut back on waste- Launching a new location and how plans change- How self-reflection drives decision making- Maximizing traffic to a location during a lockdown- Working with the development team, and managing building ownership- Passing the torch to the next generation- Giving the people what they want- Supporting local business- Competing with bigger chains- Growing against the grain- The physical and financial investment that makes entrepreneurship rewarding- Mr. Fixit

Evan Giokas and Carl (CJ) Montante III bring an immeasurable wealth of energy to every room they are in. They are experts in communication, and that's clear from the moment they begin a conversation. This episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs is no exception - the great minds behind MGM Coaching take Dave through a journey of self-discovery and give listeners a chance to evaluate how they communicate, and how to improve interpersonal relationships by simply understanding themselves.Highlights include:- Starting as the College Confidence Coach - Bad golf and good times- Networking poorly- Overcoming the resistance to change- Utilizing the cognitive profile- Breaking away from the family business- Campus Solutions and the entrepreneurial spark- Original applications for cognation- The flaws in the varied approaches to personality assessments- In sync vs In strain- Understanding who you're not is as important as understanding who you are- How personal partnerships operate like business partnerships- The significance of understanding what environment brings out the best in your employees- What leads to burnout and how to prevent it- Repeatable, scalable, franchisable- How to get to the next level - what motivates you to take the next step?- Give first vs take first- The art of conversation- Five gives before an ask- Creating value in relationships- Surprising predictors and leadership retreats

One thing is certain: Buffalo is lucky to have Nagendra Raina. His journey to becoming the president of Buffalo Games is a story for the ages, and he shares that exciting odyssey with us here in Episode 7. Highlights include:- Growing up in New Delhi- Losing a parent at a young age- Using loss to build resilience and courage- Math, Science, and Programming- Growing from a coder to an entrepreneur- Coming to America (and not Canada)- Growing from an entrepreneur to president of the fastest growing toy company in America- Managing a national brand with offices located internationally- The eerie quiet of American cities- Working through the stress of traveling as high-level management- The new vision for Buffalo Games- The need to attract talent and energize a team- Leveraging technology to stay on top of trends- The importance of investing in market research- High quality, low cost manufacturing domestically- Assembling the best team- Investing time into attracting and maintaining talent- Battling the negative rhetoric surrounding Private Equity- Balancing decisions on acquisitions with business growth- What direction will Buffalo Games take in the next five years?- Grow fast; grow fairly- Smell the roses when you can- You can solve a process problem with the right people, but you can never solve a people problem with a process

As the Chief Information Officer for M&T Bank, Mike Wisler has been to every corner of the Western world, but found answers a lot of the questions that life had raised along the way in the unlikeliest of places. Highlights of the conversation include:- Bringing Middle Ohio to Buffalo- A startup that became an international enterprise- Modernizing statistical analysis- The problematic lifestyle of a traveling manager- Listening to the voice inside your head- Finding Buffalo; finding reason- The significance and impact of community action, and how Buffalo excels at it- The importance of technology and innovation for a community- Adopting a reverence for contemporary business approaches- Searching for problems to solve- Signaling to the country - and the world - that Buffalo is a leader in technology and innovation- Collaborative Clustering- Belief, Behavior, Technique- Garnering trust within a workplace- Connecting the Waterfront with the Medical Campus- Recognizing when lightning will strike- Kickstarting 43 North and where it stands a decade later- Maniacal focus- The path of the ultra-successful- "Leadership is an endurance sport."

Jamie Obletz took a position at Delaware North just as business in that industry was coming to a screeching halt. On this episode of Empire State Entrepreneurs, Jamie and Dave discusses how he dealt with the adversity and ushered the Sportservice division to new heights.Highlights include:Heading to NYC for grad schoolWorking at J.P. MorganThe marathon weeks of investment bankingAdvocating for yourself (Taking matters into your own hands) The Risk JourneyTurning relationships into opportunitiesComing home and starting newThe value of establishing your valueHolistic leadershipTranslating investment to growthTransitioning from silosTaking on an onslaught of challenges, and the relative rewardGetting creative in tumultuous timesExisting at the forefront of innovationDeveloping strength of cultureThe flexibility of private ownership and competing on an international stageThe significance of corporate citizenshipAlways be learningChange AgendaGoing from the highest of highs, to the lowest of lows, and then back up to the topFun with islands

On this episode, host Dave Pfalzgraf welcomes Sharon Cryan, The creative, motivated mind behind FoodNerd. The revolutionary snack products at FoodNerd offer children a full compliment of key nutrients, supporting healthy habits at a young age. "We're on a mission to redefine what kids eat today, tomorrow, and in the future. We craft a variety of tasty foods, but beneath the deliciousness, we're also setting new standards for nutrient density," Sharon writes.Tune in for Sharon's story, and how a shift in focus can help your child - and even you! realign your journey to healthy eating.Highlights include:- The impact of nutrition on overall health, and learning through the stages of life- Growing up in the food production and distribution area of Buffalo- Identifying her future path at a young age- Making connections via the crossover between law studies and politics- Creating a voice for the voiceless- Where 'Food Nerd' came from, and the joy it brought- Redefining the lunchbox- The influence of Japanese culture and the approach to nutrition- Turning meal prep into an income source- Self love through nutrition- Repositioning to keep the product affordable- Turning client feedback into positive change- Happy accidents- How processing damages nutrition in foods- The future of product development- Optimizing nutrition while remaining convenient- Standing out from standard Buffalo Food Manufacturing - Utilizing university science and research to help product development- #FoodTruth- Scalability and disrupting the industry- Impactful advice for small businesses and entrepreneurs

Frank Ewing is the CEO of AML Rightsource, a global leader in financial crime prevention and third-party compliance. According to their website, Frank is, "...a thought leader and innovator in the global anti-financial crimes and regulatory management space and is always focused on providing the best service and experience for our clients." Listeners will soon learn that his focus on service for both his internal and external clients is what drives him to be the best leader he can be.In this episode, host David Pfalzgraf takes a swift journey with Frank, discussing his upbringing in upstate New York, his journey to settling in Buffalo, and how he got started in the industry.Highlights include:- Thursday in the Square- Giving small community banks the same access to anti-financial crime platforms as the larger national banks- Launching AML with partners in Cleveland- Crossing paths with Rupp Pfalzgraf- The decision to attend Law School at University at Buffalo- How his education informed his approach as a leader- Terms of endearment- Applying his overall experience to working with M&T Bank- How Buffalo became the home of AML Rightsource- The amount of money tied to financial crimes - Technology: enabler or disruptor?- The power of focused training- Coming full-circle- Buffalo as a technology hub- The rugged, industrious draw of the city- What's next for AML, and how that ties into what's next for the community- What can we do to keep the young, motivated workforce in Buffalo?- Advice for fellow entrepreneurs- The value of empathy

Juweria Dahir is a gift to the Buffalo entrepreneur community. She has developed a passion for data, evidence-based decision making, and listening, and has applied that passion to improve access to crucial networking opportunities for small businesses in underserved populations as the Director of Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus.In this episode, host Dave Pfalzgraf leads Juweria through a journey that begins with her early life and how her humble upbringing prepared her to be an advocate for the communities she works ceaselessly to service.Highlights include:- Farming in Switzerland- Finding a home in Buffalo- Teaching the world the difference between New York and New York- Building relationships, Glee, and learning American humor- Finding that accents are nearly a language barrier- The technological lag in America right now- Thought partners and change agents driving progress- Racial divisions vs class divisions- The Urban Fellow Program in the City of Buffalo- Priority mechanisms and the importance of maintaining public services in distressed neighborhoods- The significance of listening in leadership- Use of the Open Data Portal, sponsored by Bloomberg, along with Harvard and Johns Hopkins- Innovation in city government- Working with Matt Enstice at BNMC- The challenges of guiding businesses through reopening after COVID- Helping marginalized individuals learn to build wealth through entrepreneurship- Fostering relationships and developing crucial networking opportunities for business - Partnering with Josh Roetzer, Associate Attorney at Rupp Pfalzgraf- The best Chicken and Waffles in Buffalo!- The significance of being flexible as a business owner- Approaching everything with a coachable mindset

John Gavigan's energetic presence has helped grow Western New York's reputation as an incubator for dynamic startup businesses. His time as Executive Director of 43North solidified John as an expert in guiding startups to the next level, and since then, he has worked tirelessly to continue the success of entrepreneurs regionally, nationally, and internationally. In this episode, host Dave Pfalzgraf leads John through US Open reverie and garners valuable insight from the world of entrepreneurship. Highlights include:- The relationship between Rupp Pfalzgraf and 43North- The state of change and competition - The birth of GoToVerdict- How 43North gave John the insight to continue helping entrepreneurs grow- Melding science and art in business development- The job creation multiplier effect within the service industry- The resiliency of problem solving- The importance of listening in leadership- THE SECRET SAUCE!- The danger of distraction - how much time are you spending on shiny things?- Talent and recruitingThanks for tuning in - we're excited to keep the conversation going!